How do I claim maternity leave in Spain?

Permiso de Maternidad is the standard maternity leave in Spain that entitles women to a 16-week period away from work. This rises to 18 weeks for twins and 20 weeks in the case of triplets. For children with disabilities there is an additional two weeks.

Also, if you have to take time off whilst pregnant for medical reasons, you are still entitled to the 16 weeks maternity leave after your child is born.

It is also possible to use the 16 weeks in combination with a part-time working timetable or even add holiday time that you are due in order to extend your leave.

For mothers of premature babies or where a baby has to remain in hospital for more than seven days following the birth, standard maternity leave can be extended for up to 13 weeks.

Although many women find employers less than understanding, during the pregnancy itself, expectant mothers are entitled to time off work for medical examinations and other ante-natal care.