Slovakia Employment Guide

Maternity Leave Policy for International Employers

Employees who have completed 60 consecutive days of service with their employer are entitled to 34 weeks of paid maternity leave. A mandatory period of 6 to 8 weeks must be taken prior to the expected date of childbirth.

Social security provides compensation at 75% of the daily calculation base. This base is determined by dividing the employee's total earnings from the previous year by 12 months and then by 365 days, multiplied by the number of leave days. The maximum daily benefit is capped at €55.87. It's important to note that this leave period cannot be extended beyond the statutory allowance.

Paternity Leave and Shared Parental Options

Fathers or partners who have contributed to social security for at least 270 days are eligible for a two-week paternity leave to care for a newborn. This leave must be utilized within the first six weeks following the child's birth.

Similar to maternity leave, social security covers 75% of the daily calculation base, with the same maximum daily payment. A flexible alternative allows parents to split a shared parental leave. An additional 26 weeks of leave is available for the care of one child, which can be taken by either parent within three years of the child's birth. This option is only accessible after the initial six-week postnatal period and requires that the mother is no longer receiving maternity or parental benefits from the labor office.

Understanding Parental Leave Entitlements

Employees have the right to take parental leave for a maximum duration of three years, until the child reaches the age of three. This leave can be taken by either parent. During this period, social security provides a flat-rate monthly payment of €275.90 to support the family. This leave period is fixed and cannot be extended.

Navigating Sick Leave Compensation

Employees are entitled to paid sick leave for up to 52 weeks. The compensation structure varies depending on the duration of the absence, with responsibility shifting between the employer and social security.

For multinational companies like SailGlobal, effectively managing these policies is crucial for compliance and employee satisfaction. Clear communication and streamlined administrative processes ensure that employees receive their entitled benefits without unnecessary delays.