Parental Leave

Parental leave is the time parents can take off work to care for their newborn or adopted child. This leave can last up to three years, and during this time, parents have the right to keep their job. For example, if a parent wants to stay home for a year after their child’s birth, they can apply for parental leave.

This matters for residents in Germany because parents have the right to apply for parental leave to care for their child without losing their job. It’s important to submit the application on time, usually at least seven weeks before the desired start date (§ 15 BEEG). Common mistakes include applying too late or not knowing that part-time work is also possible during parental leave.