Elternzeit (parental leave) is the legal entitlement to take unpaid leave from work to care for a child. During this period there is comprehensive job protection.
Duration and entitlement
- Up to 3 years per child per parent
- Can be split over up to 3 periods
- Up to 24 months can be taken between the child's 3rd and 8th birthday (with employer agreement)
- Both parents can take leave simultaneously or alternately
Financial support during Elternzeit
Elterngeld (parental benefit) replaces up to 65–67% of net salary (min. 300 €, max. 1,800 €/month) for 12 (+2 partner months) or up to 28 months (ElterngeldPlus).
Part-time work during Elternzeit
Up to 32 hours/week can be worked during parental leave (with employer agreement).
Sources: BEEG, §§ 15, 16 BEEG.