How Many Days Is Maternity Leave in South Africa
What is maternity leave?
Maternity leave refers to the time a new mother takes off from work following the birth of her child.
How many days is maternity leave in South Africa?
According to the Basic Conditions of Employment Act, employees in South Africa are legally entitled to four consecutive months of unpaid maternity leave.
Does the employee lose her job when she embarks on maternity leave in South Africa?
The employee’s position must be kept open by the employer so that she can return from maternity leave in compliance with the law.
Can I get Maternity Benefits?
You are eligible to receive benefits from the Maternity Benefit Fund if you have been paying into the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF).
What is the benefit given by the UIF to employees on maternity leave?
You are qualified for a maternity benefit that ranges from a minimum of 38% to a maximum of 60% of your remuneration depending on the level of your income.
How do I claim from the UIF (Unemployment Insurance Fund)?
The following documents must be brought to the nearest labor center by women who wish to file a claim for the UIF: an ID card or passport, banking information, and a medical certificate. The woman may send someone in her place if she is too unwell to visit the center herself.
Is the father entitled to a similar leave from work?
Dads in South Africa who are currently employed are now entitled to 10 working days of paid paternity leave following the birth of their child, per the Labour Amendment Act that was passed in 2018.
