Workplace glossary

What is Paid Parental Leave?

Definition & practical guide1 min read

Paid parental leave is paid time away from work for a parent after the birth, adoption or placement of a child. It can be funded by an employer, a government scheme or a mix of both depending on the country.

On this page

Modern policies often use “parental leave” to include different family structures, not only traditional maternity and paternity wording.

Common questions

What does Paid Parental Leave mean in simple terms?

Paid parental leave is paid time away from work for a parent after the birth, adoption or placement of a child. It can be funded by an employer, a government scheme or a mix of both depending on the country.

What is the difference between Paid Parental Leave and similar terms?

Modern policies often use “parental leave” to include different family structures, not only traditional maternity and paternity wording.