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      What is parental leave (Elternzeit) in Germany?

      Parental leave in Germany, also known as "Elternzeit," allows parents to take a break from work to care for their child.

      Parental leave in Germany also referred to as "Elternzeit," grants parents the opportunity to temporarily step away from employment to attend to their child. This provision extends to both mothers and fathers and can be utilized until the child reaches their third birthday, with the potential for extension until the child turns 8 under specific circumstances. 

       

      Key highlights about parental leave in Germany:

      • Duration: Parents have the option to take up to three years of parental leave per child, with a minimum requirement of two months before the child's third birthday. The remaining time can be utilized anytime before the child reaches the age of 8.
      • Payment: While parental leave itself is unpaid, parents can apply for parental allowance ("Elterngeld"), which is a state-funded financial aid. The amount of parental allowance is based on the parent's pre-leaved income.
      • Eligibility: All employees with a German employment contract, including those on full-time, part-time, marginal, fixed-term, or permanent contracts, as well as trainees, are eligible for parental leave.
      • Part-time work: Parents can opt for part-time work during their parental leave and still receive a partial salary along with parental allowance.

      Upon completion of parental leave, parents retain the right to resume their previous work commitments.

       

      How to request parental leave:

      • Notify your employer: Send a written notification to your employer at least seven weeks before the intended start date of your parental leave.
      • To receive parental allowance:  apply via an application form in writing. You can hand in the application form at the office responsible for you and get advice there beforehand. You can download the application form that applies to you on familienportal.de. You can also submit the application online.

       

      Additional information:

       

      We hope this information is helpful!

      If you have any questions please contact us via payroll@consultinghouse.eu