Employees must apply for maternity leave benefits at a labor center at least eight weeks before the due date (section 25 of the Unemployment Insurance Act).
In South Africa, how many months of maternity leave do you get?
Employees in South Africa have a statutory right to four months of unpaid maternity leave. The birth mother must take four months of maternity leave, which can only be reduced if a doctor certifies that the employee can return to work sooner.
Is it mandatory to take four months of maternity leave?
The Basic Conditions of Employment Act (BCEA) (Section 25) provides for at least four months of unpaid maternity leave for pregnant employees. It also states that maternity leave must begin no later than four weeks before the child’s expected birth date.
What is the maternity pay in South Africa?
Maternity leave is compensated leave. These benefits are paid in accordance with the Unemployment Insurance Act. A worker who contributes to UIF is eligible for a maternity benefit ranging from 38% to 60% of average earnings in the previous six months, depending on the insured person’s income level. Maternity benefits are paid for 17.32 weeks.
Do you get paid for your maternity leave?
Every employee is entitled to 52 weeks of maternity leave. Statutory Maternity Pay is available to employees and workers, including agency workers, who meet the qualifying conditions (SMP). SMP is paid for a period of 39 weeks. For the first six weeks, you receive 90% of your average earnings.
