Morocco Employment Guide

Maternity Leave in Morocco: A Guide for Employers

In Morocco, female employees are entitled to 14 weeks of fully paid maternity leave. The compensation, capped at 6,000 Moroccan Dirhams, is provided by the National Social Security Fund (CNSS) and equals 100% of the employee's wage. The actual payment amount is determined by the social security contributions made to CNSS in the six months preceding the leave, subject to the established ceiling. The leave period is structured to begin 7 weeks before the expected due date and concludes 7 weeks after childbirth.

Paternity Leave Provisions

Fathers working in Morocco can take up to 3 days of paid paternity leave. Eligible employees receive their full average daily wage from their employer, with a reimbursement cap of 692.30 Dirhams per day, which the employer can later reclaim from the CNSS. This leave must be initiated immediately following the child's birth. It can be taken as three consecutive days or split with managerial approval, provided it is fully utilized within one month of the birth.

Understanding Sick Leave Entitlements

Moroccan labor law grants employees the right to sick leave for a maximum duration of 52 weeks. To qualify, an employee must have contributed to the CNSS for at least 54 days in the 6-month period prior to the illness or incapacity. The responsibility for salary payment during sick leave varies depending on the duration.

Practical Implications for HR

For international companies like SailGlobal, navigating these regulations is crucial for compliance and employee satisfaction. For instance, a clear internal policy that outlines the process for submitting medical certificates for sick leave can prevent misunderstandings. Proactive communication about leave benefits during onboarding helps build trust and ensures a smooth administrative process for both the employee and the HR department.