What are paid and unpaid leaves in Italy?

Italy offers various types of paid and unpaid leave to support employees during important life events such as childbirth, illness, and family care. Here's a detailed overview of the different types of leave available to employees in Italy.

Paid Leave Types

Maternity/Pregnancy Leave

Duration: 5 months (2 months before birth and 3 months after birth).
Salary Payment:
- 80% Paid by Social Security (INPS): During maternity leave, 80% of the employee's salary is covered by Italy’s social security system (INPS).
- Employer Top-Up: Employers are typically required to top up this allowance to ensure the employee receives 100% of their net monthly salary, unless the INPS allowance exceeds this amount.

Paternity Leave (Second Parent)

Duration: 5 days to be taken within 5 months after the birth of the child.
Salary Payment:
- 80% Paid by Social Security (INPS): The employee is entitled to receive 80% of their salary during paternity leave, paid by the INPS.

Parental Leave

Duration: Up to 10 months per year, available until the child reaches 12 years of age.
Salary Payment:
- 30% Until Child’s 6th Year: Parents can receive 30% of their salary for a maximum of 6 months if the leave is taken before the child’s 6th birthday.

Short-Term Care Leave

Purpose: For serious illness or the death of family members.
Duration: 3 days per year.
Salary Payment: Typically, this leave is paid, though the specific terms can depend on the employment contract and collective agreements.

Long-Term Care Leave

Purpose: For serious, documented family reasons requiring extended leave.
Duration: Up to 2 years.
Salary Payment: The specific payment terms for long-term care leave can vary, but it is often unpaid, depending on the situation and contractual agreements.

Unpaid Leave

Childcare Leave

Purpose: To care for children until they reach 8 years of age.
Duration: Unpaid leave, with the duration varying based on the needs of the family and the terms of the employment contract.