What is Maternity Leave?

What is Maternity Leave?

Pregnant employees are entitled to an uninterrupted period of 18 weeks of paid maternity leave. Only the first 14 weeks are paid by the employer, and the remaining 4 weeks will be paid by the government through the Social Security Department.

It is important to note that the pregnant employee is expected to take 4 weeks of maternity leave prior to the expected date (also known as due date), and a further 6 weeks immediately following this date. The remaining 8 weeks of leave may be taken before or after these periods, at the decision of the employee.

How do I include the Maternity Leave on Buddy?

Adding Maternity leave is the same as adding any other leave application. When adding the leave, select the dates and as the Leave Type, make sure to choose Maternity.

We recommend adding a single leave application for the full period, rather than period by period. The primary reason is to allow better automation for the unpaid portions (see below).

How to calculate the 4 Weeks which will be paid by the government?

As of 2026, when applying for Maternity Leave, Buddy will automatically calculate the 4 weeks of unpaid pay.

Therefore, all you would require to do is add the full days and let Buddy handle the calculations.