The WIEG Scheme: Paid Parental Leave for Delft Residents
The WIEG scheme (Paid Parental Leave Act) provides working parents in Delft with nine weeks of paid leave upon the birth of their child. This is in addition to the standard birth leave and is available to both parents. The benefit amounts to 70% of your daily wage (capped at a maximum) and is administered by the UWV. Since 1 August 2022, this scheme has helped Delft parents, such as those at TU Delft or local companies, spend more quality time with their newborn.
What Does the WIEG Scheme Mean for Delft?
The WIEG scheme expands Dutch leave policy by adding nine weeks of paid parental leave. Previously, there was only unpaid parental leave or a short paid birth leave of five days for fathers and partners. Now, both parents may take this leave consecutively within one year of the birth, in consultation with the employer. For mothers, it follows maternity and birth leave.
This measure promotes a fair balance between work and care, ideal for families in Delft's vibrant student city.
Legal Basis of the WIEG Scheme
The WIEG scheme is set out in the Paid Parental Leave Act, which amends the Work and Care Act (WAZO). Key provisions:
- Article 1:1(1) WAZO: Definition of parental leave.
- Article 2:1 WAZO: Duration of nine weeks.
- Article 6:1 WAZO: UWV benefit.
It complies with EU Directive 2019/1158. The maximum daily wage for 2024 is €274.44, linked to the Sickness Benefits Act.
Eligibility Conditions for WIEG Leave in Delft
To qualify for the WIEG scheme, you must meet these requirements:
- You are an employee (including on-call workers with ≥26 weeks' service).
- Child born on or after 1 August 2022.
- Leave taken within 52 weeks of birth.
- Notify employer at least 4 weeks in advance.
- Apply to UWV before the first day of leave.
Self-employed workers (ZZP'ers) in Delft are not entitled to the benefit but can take leave with clients.
Rights and Obligations under WIEG
Rights
- Nine weeks of part-time leave (up to 50% reduction in working hours).
- Protection against dismissal during and after leave.
- UWV benefit: 70% of social insurance daily wage (max. €274.44 in 2024).
Obligations
- Must be taken consecutively.
- Notify employer in time.
- Forward UWV decision to employer.
Practical Examples for Delft
Example 1: Delft father Mark (40 hours/week at TU Delft) schedules WIEG leave from 2 January to 26 February 2024 after birth on 1 September 2023. Daily wage €200: 45 days x €140 (70%) = €6,300 gross. Employer may top up.
Example 2: Mother Lisa (24 hours/week at Municipality of Delft) takes nine weeks of WIEG after maternity leave, with 50% reduction in hours.
Comparison with Other Types of Leave
| Scheme | Duration | Paid | For Whom | When Available |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Birth Leave | 1 week (5 days) | 100% employer salary | Partner | Within 4 weeks of birth |
| WIEG Scheme | 9 weeks | 70% UWV (max daily wage) | Both parents | Within 1 year |
| Parental Leave | 26 weeks per parent | Unpaid | Both parents | Until child is 8 |
| Adoption Leave | 6 weeks | 100% UWV | Both parents | Within 1 year of adoption |
Applying for WIEG Leave Step by Step
- Notify employer (≥4 weeks in advance).
- Apply for benefit on UWV.nl using DigiD (ideally 8 weeks before start).
- Send UWV decision to employer.
- Take leave; benefit paid weekly.
Perhaps Also of Interest
Read more about Paid Parental Leave (WIEG), Maternity Leave or Birth Leave.
Frequently Asked Questions about WIEG in Delft
Can I spread out the WIEG weeks?
No, it must be taken consecutively, but part-time up to 50% is allowed.
What if the employer refuses the application?
Not permitted if notified in time. Contact the District Court of The Hague, Netherlands Labour Inspectorate or Delft Legal Aid Office for free advice.
WIEG for adoption?
No, only for biological birth; adoption leave is separate.
Top up salary?
Not mandatory, but often via collective agreement. Check your contract.
Tips for Delft Residents
- Plan leave early with your employer to avoid conflicts.
- Consult the Delft Legal Aid Office for personal assistance.
- Check collective agreements of Municipality of Delft or local firms for extras.