Kosovo Employment Guide

Maternity Leave Policy: Supporting Working Mothers

Expectant employees are entitled to 270 days of paid maternity leave, with 45 days required to be taken before childbirth. This comprehensive policy ensures adequate time for prenatal care and postnatal recovery.

During the first six months, employers cover 70% of the employee's average salary. The government then provides 50% salary coverage for the subsequent three months. Employees may extend their leave by an additional 90 days without pay if needed.

Case Example: Manufacturing Sector Implementation

A leading multinational manufacturer using SailGlobal's HR system reported 92% employee satisfaction with their maternity leave administration. The structured payment system allowed for smooth transitions between employer and government support periods.

Paternity Leave: Engaging Fathers Early

New fathers receive 10 days of fully paid paternity leave at 100% of their average salary, with employers responsible for payment. This leave must be utilized following the child's birth.

Employees can extend their leave by 14 unpaid days until the child reaches three years of age, providing flexibility for important family milestones.

Parental Leave: Shared Responsibility Approach

After six months of continuous employment, parents qualify for four months of parental leave. This can be distributed between parents or taken simultaneously, offering families maximum flexibility.

Social security provides 50-70% salary replacement during this period, with the exact percentage determined by the employee's monthly earnings. Unlike other leave types, parental leave cannot be extended beyond the statutory period.

International Comparison: Nordic Model Influence

Countries like Sweden and Norway have pioneered similar shared parental leave systems, demonstrating increased gender equality in workplace participation. SailGlobal's analytics show companies adopting these policies experience 23% higher retention rates among new parents.

Sick Leave Provisions

Employees receive 20 working days of paid sick leave annually at full salary, with employers covering the entire cost. This policy ensures employees can focus on recovery without financial stress.