StaatsNavigator
Family benefits

Report Maternity Leave

Notification of a pregnancy by the employer to the relevant occupational safety and health authority for the purpose of reviewing restrictions on employment.

Processing: approx. 1 weeks
Online application possibleSuccess rate: 98.0 %

How to proceed

  1. 1

    Notifying Your Employer of Your Pregnancy

    As early as possible, with a doctor's note confirming the due date.

  2. 2

    Employer reports to the occupational safety and health authority

    Determining whether an individual employment ban is necessary.

  3. 3

    Maternity leave periods

    6 weeks before and 8 weeks after childbirth (12 weeks in the case of multiple births or premature births).

Required documents

  • Medical certificate stating the expected date of birthMandatory

Responsible authority

The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →

Fees

Varies by case

Processing time

approx. 1 weeks

Official: max. approx. 2 weeks

Online application

Online possible – at the responsible authority

Common mistakes

  • Notifying the employer of the pregnancy too late, resulting in a delay in the start of maternity leave

The essentials before applying

Who is eligible?

Pregnant and breastfeeding employees through their employer.

Income limit

The limit varies by household and region – see the table at the responsible authority or in the application assistant.

Processing time

Nationwide: approx. approx. 1 weeks

Success rate

approx. 98.0 % (estimate)

Most common mistakes

  • Notifying the employer of the pregnancy too late, resulting in a delay in the start of maternity leave

Common reasons for rejection

    Alternatives

    • Check related services in the application assistant
    • Use social counselling before applying

    If rejected

    File a written objection within 30 days – with reasons why the decision is wrong and any missing evidence.

    Related services

    Read more