The WIEG Scheme: Paid Parental Leave in Tilburg
The WIEG scheme (Paid Parental Leave Act) provides working parents in Tilburg with nine weeks of paid leave upon the birth of their baby. This is in addition to the standard birth leave and is available to both parents. The leave benefit is 70% of your daily wage (capped) and is paid out by the UWV. Since 1 August 2022, this law has helped Tilburg families spend more quality time with their newborn.
What Does the WIEG Scheme Mean for You in Tilburg?
This WIEG scheme expands Dutch leave policy with paid parental leave. Previously, fathers and partners had only unpaid parental leave or a short paid birth leave of five days. Now both parents in Tilburg are entitled to nine consecutive weeks of leave, part of which is paid. You must take it within one year of the birth, in consultation with your employer and consecutively.
The law promotes a fair work-life balance for Tilburg parents. It focuses primarily on the mother's partner, but mothers can also use it after their maternity and birth leave.
Legal Basis of the WIEG Scheme
The WIEG scheme is set out in the Paid Parental Leave Act, which amends the Work and Care Act (WAZO). Key provisions are:
- Article 1:1(1) WAZO: Defines parental leave.
- Article 2:1 WAZO: Sets the duration at nine weeks.
- Article 6:1 WAZO: Governs the UWV benefit.
It implements EU Directive 2019/1158 on work-life balance. The maximum daily wage for 2024 is € 274.44, linked to the Sickness Benefits Act.
Eligibility for WIEG Leave in Tilburg
Tilburg employees must meet these requirements:
- You are employed (including on-call workers with ≥26 weeks of service).
- Birth on or after 1 August 2022.
- Taken within 52 weeks of birth.
- Notify employer at least 4 weeks in advance.
- Apply to UWV before the first day of leave for the benefit.
Self-employed without staff (ZZP'ers) in Tilburg receive no benefit but can take leave with a client.
Rights and Obligations under WIEG in Tilburg
Rights as an Employee
- Nine weeks of part-time leave (up to 50% of normal hours).
- Protection against dismissal during and after leave.
- UWV benefit: 70% of social insurance daily wage (max. € 274.44 in 2024).
Obligations
- Take consecutively.
- Inform employer well in advance.
- Forward UWV decision to employer.
Tilburg Practice Examples of WIEG
Example 1: Mark from Tilburg works 40 hours at a local company and his child is born on 1 September 2023. He takes WIEG leave from 2 January to 26 February 2024. With a daily wage of € 200, he receives 45 days x 70% = € 140/day, total € 6,300 gross. His employer may top up per collective agreement.
Example 2: Lisa from Tilburg enjoys 12 weeks of maternity leave after birth, followed by 9 weeks of WIEG. Working 24 hours/week, she reduces to 50% during this leave.
Comparison with Other Leave Entitlements
| Scheme | Duration | Paid | For Whom | Takable |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Birth Leave | 1 week (5 days) | 100% employer wage | Partner | Within 4 weeks of birth |
| WIEG Scheme | 9 weeks | 70% UWV (max daily wage) | Both parents | Within 1 year |
| Parental Leave | 26 weeks per parent | Unpaid | Both parents | Until child is 8 |
| Adoption Leave | 6 weeks | 100% UWV | Both parents | Within 1 year of adoption |
Applying for WIEG Leave Step by Step
- Inform employer (at least 4 weeks ahead).
- Apply for benefit on UWV.nl with DigiD (ideally 8 weeks prior).
- Send UWV decision to employer.
- Start leave and receive weekly benefit.
Perhaps Also of Interest
Read more about Paid Parental Leave (WIEG), Maternity Leave or Birth Leave.
Frequently Asked Questions about WIEG in Tilburg
Can I spread out the WIEG weeks?
No, must be taken consecutively. Part-time (up to 50%) is possible.
What if the employer refuses?
Refusal is not allowed if notified timely. Contact the District Court of Zeeland-West-Brabant in Breda, or the Juridisch Loket Tilburg for free advice.
WIEG for adoption?
No, only for birth. Adoption leave applies separately.
Employer topping up pay?
Not mandatory, but often via collective agreement up to 100%. Check your contract.
Tips for Tilburg Parents
- Plan leave early with your employer to avoid conflicts.
- Consult the Juridisch Loket Tilburg for personal questions.
- Check with the Municipality of Tilburg for additional family support.
- Report the birth immediately to claim all entitlements.