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What does Elternzeit mean?

Elternzeit (parental leave) is time off work to look after your own child. Mothers and fathers can take it.

die Elternzeit

You must give your employer written notice of parental leave in good time. The rules for this are set by law.

During parental leave, you usually get no wages. Money often comes as Elterngeld, which you apply for separately.

During parental leave, you are specially protected against dismissal. You may also work part-time.

Example sentence

Hiermit nehme ich für mein Kind Elternzeit vom 01.02.2027 bis zum 31.01.2028.

I hereby take Elternzeit for my child from 01.02.2027 to 31.01.2028.

What you can do

Ask your employer to confirm receipt of your notice. Apply for Elterngeld at the same time.

  • Elterngeld Elterngeld (parental allowance) is money for parents who care for their child after the birth. They then work less or not at all.
  • Arbeitsvertrag The Arbeitsvertrag (employment contract) sets out your work: what you do, how much you work and how much you earn.
  • Kündigung With a Kündigung (notice), one side ends a contract, for example a rental contract, a work contract or a subscription.
  • Mutterschutz Mutterschutz (maternity protection) protects pregnant women and mothers after the birth at work, their health and their income.