This is general information, not legal advice. Leave and benefit rules change. Confirm your entitlement with ZUS or your employer.
Maternity leave
A mother is entitled to maternity leave, typically 20 weeks for one child and longer for multiple births. Part can be taken before the birth, and a portion can be transferred to the father after a minimum period taken by the mother.
Parental leave
After maternity leave, parents can take parental leave, which can be shared. Recent reforms reserved a dedicated, non-transferable portion for each parent to encourage fathers to take leave.
- Maternity leave: around 20 weeks for one child.
- Parental leave: additional weeks, shareable.
- Non-transferable portion reserved per parent.
How payments work
During leave, an allowance (zasilek macierzynski) is paid through ZUS. The benefit rate depends on the type and timing of leave taken, often a percentage of your average pay over a reference period.
Fathers and other leave
Fathers have their own paternity leave to take in the early period after birth, plus the right to share parental leave. There is also unpaid childcare leave for parents who want a longer break.
- Paternity leave for fathers.
- Shared parental leave.
- Longer unpaid childcare leave.
For foreign workers
If you are insured in Poland through employment, you generally qualify for these benefits on the same basis as Polish workers. Self-employed contributors can also be eligible if they pay the relevant contributions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is maternity leave?
Typically around 20 weeks for a single birth, longer for multiple births.
Can parental leave be shared?
Yes, parents can share parental leave, with a dedicated non-transferable portion for each.
Who pays the allowance?
ZUS pays the maternity allowance, calculated from your average earnings.
Do fathers get leave?
Yes, fathers have paternity leave and can also share parental leave.
Can I take leave before birth?
Part of maternity leave can be used before the expected birth date.
Are foreign workers eligible?
Yes, if insured in Poland through employment, on the same basis as locals.
What about the self-employed?
They can qualify if they pay the relevant sickness and social contributions.
Is there longer unpaid leave?
Yes, unpaid childcare leave is available for a longer break.
How is the benefit rate set?
It depends on the type and timing of leave, usually a percentage of average pay.
Can leave be transferred to the father?
Part of maternity leave can transfer after the mother takes a minimum period.