Maternity leave: planning, applying and income. General information.

For a single birth, pregnancy and maternity leave together generally last at least sixteen weeks. The calculation depends on the expected and actual birth dates. Use a plan that can be adjusted later if needed.

Note the expected birth date and discuss your preferred leave start. The periods before and after birth must be allocated under statutory rules. Use an official calculation rather than merely counting sixteen weeks.

As an employee you request leave from your employer no later than three weeks before it starts. Keep the pregnancy certificate in your own records and follow instructions if UWV needs it later.

During leave you are entitled to maternity benefit of one hundred percent of the daily wage, up to the statutory maximum daily wage. This does not automatically mean unlimited full salary. Check any supplementary employer arrangements.

Different leave rules apply to twins or other multiple births. A longer hospital stay for your baby can also affect leave after childbirth. Ask for a calculation for that situation instead of applying the normal plan blindly.

Your employer may not refuse statutory leave. Ask for clear confirmation of the dates and payment arrangements. The maternity-leave guide helps organise dates, applications and income questions before leave starts.

Read the full explanation and sources on Employment Law in the Netherlands. Have someone assess which rules apply to your situation.