What are the Maternity and Birth Leaves in France?

In France, maternity and birth leave is designed to support employees during a crucial time for both the parent and the child.

Notice Requirement: Employees must inform their employer of their intention to take maternity or adoption leave by sending a letter with a signature upon receipt.

Adoption Leave: Employees adopting a child are entitled to 3+3 business days of leave. This leave can be taken continuously or intermittently within a 15-day period after the child's arrival.
Maternity Leave:
- For the 1st and 2nd Child: 16 weeks total, including 6 weeks before the due date. Employees can opt for a shorter leave, but a minimum of 8 weeks must be taken, with at least 6 weeks after the birth.
- For the 3rd Child and Subsequent Children: 26 weeks total, including 8 weeks before the due date. Employees can choose a shorter leave, but a minimum of 8 weeks must be taken, with at least 6 weeks after the birth.
- Pregnancy with Twins: 34 weeks total, including 12 weeks before the due date.
- Pregnancy with 3 or More Children: 46 weeks total, including 24 weeks before the due date.

Employees with More Than 1 Year of Service:
- Compensation is provided by the Public Health Insurance Fund (CPAM).
- This compensation is supplemented by the employer's insurance (Mutuelle d’Entreprise) if available.
- The employer is responsible for making up any difference to ensure the employee receives 100% of their usual salary.
Employees with Less Than 1 Year of Service:
- Salary is suspended during maternity leave.
- Compensation is provided by CPAM, provided the employee:
  - Has worked at least 150 hours in the last 3 months.
  - Has been registered with CPAM for at least 10 months before the due date.
- Payments from CPAM are typically made every 14 calendar days.

The amount of compensation during maternity leave is calculated based on the employee's regular salary, adjusted to meet the requirements of the CPAM and any additional employer contributions.

Reduced Work Hours: From the 3rd month of pregnancy, employees may reduce their working hours by 20 minutes per day.
Medical Appointments: Employees are allowed to attend pre-birth medical appointments during work hours.
Single Parenting: Employees who wish to raise the child alone can take unpaid time off.

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