Maternity leave in Ireland – here’s what you need to know

Sophie Collins

If you’re expecting or are planning on trying for a baby, you’ll likely be looking into maternity leave and how it works in Ireland.

There are lots of misunderstandings when it comes to maternity leave for new mothers in Ireland; from how long you need to be in a job and what pay you’re entitled to.

So, we’ve done some digging for you and have listed out some of the main things you need to know.

What time off are we entitled to in Ireland?

As an employee, you will have the right to take 26 weeks’ maternity leave if you become pregnant. If you want to take more time with your little one before returning to work, you will also have the right to take up to 16 weeks’ additional maternity leave.

Expectant mums can take this time off work whether they are in full-time, casual or part-time employment – and it does not matter how long you have been working for your employer.

It’s also a requirement to take at least 2 weeks’ leave before your baby is due, and at least 4 weeks after the baby is born.

If you have enough social insurance (PRSI) contributions, you are entitled to Maternity Benefit (including self-employed) for the 26 weeks’ of basic maternity leave, however maternity Benefit does not cover additional leave.

An update was made to the legislation in July 2023, so that all the rights and protections outlined also apply to transgender men who are pregnant or have given birth.

You must have a gender recognition certificate, in accordance with the Gender Recognition Act 2015.

Can I take time off for scans and other pregnancy-related appointments?

Yes, you can take time off for medical visits connected with the pregnancy.

According to Citizen’s Information: “You can take as much time off as you need for these visits, including the time for travelling to and from the appointment and for the appointment itself.”

All you need to do is give your employer a note from your doctor to confirm that you are pregnant and you must give two weeks’ notice of your medical visits.

You should also show your appointment card if your employer asks to see it at any time after your first appointment.

You can also take time off for medical visits, for up to 14 weeks after the birth.

It’s also mandatory to be paid while keeping these medical appointments, both before and after the birth.

What kind of pay am I entitled to for the duration of my maternity leave?

You may be able to get Maternity Benefit from the Department of Social Protection (DSP) if you have enough PRSI contributions.

According to Irish law, however, employers do not have to pay women who are on leave, so it is at their discression what they decide to pay you.

“You should check your contract of employment to see whether you are entitled to pay and pension contributions from your employer during your maternity leave,” citizen’s information advises.

Your contract could give you the right to pay from your employer in addition to Maternity Benefit while you are on maternity leave.

For example, your employer may opt to top up the amount you get from Maternity Benefit to match your normal pay.

How do I apply for maternity leave?

You should apply to your employer in writing at least 4 weeks before you want to start maternity leave.

You should apply for Maternity Benefit to the Maternity Benefit Section of the DSP at least 6 weeks before you intend to go on maternity leave.

How much notice must I give my employer?

You must give your employer at least 4 weeks’ written notice that you plan to take maternity leave and must provide a medical certificate confirming your pregnancy.

You must also give at least 4 weeks’ written notice if you want to take the 16 weeks’ additional maternity leave.

You can give both these notices at the same time.