Q: What maternity leave benefits are available in Cyprus?
In Cyprus, pregnant employees are entitled to 18 weeks of maternity leave, with at least 11 weeks being compulsory. Employees are also entitled to return to their position post-leave.
Q: Can an employee be dismissed during maternity leave in Cyprus?
Employees are protected from dismissal during maternity leave in Cyprus. Any termination during this period is deemed unlawful, and the employee may be entitled to compensation or reinstatement.
Q: How does maternity leave impact the employment contract in Cyprus?
Maternity leave does not affect the employment contract in Cyprus. Employees retain their job rights and can return to their original role once their leave ends.
Q: What happens to annual leave during maternity leave in Cyprus?
Annual leave continues to accrue during maternity leave in Cyprus. Employees remain entitled to their full annual leave entitlement, even when they are on maternity leave.
Q: How long is paternity leave in Cyprus?
Cyprus law provides two consecutive weeks of paternity leave, allowing fathers to care for their newborn child. Employers are required to pay paternity leave, subject to certain conditions.
Q: Are there any additional maternity benefits in Cyprus?
In addition to maternity leave, pregnant employees are entitled to maternity pay based on their contributions to the social insurance system, ensuring financial support during their leave.
Q: Can maternity leave be extended in Cyprus?
Maternity leave in Cyprus can be extended for additional periods in case of multiple births, with up to 26 weeks available for subsequent children.
Q: How does Cyprus law handle termination of a pregnant employee?
Termination of a pregnant employee is prohibited in Cyprus. Any notice of termination given to a pregnant employee can be revoked, regardless of the employee’s awareness of the pregnancy.
Q: What are the maternity leave benefits for self-employed women in Cyprus?
Self-employed women are entitled to maternity leave in Cyprus but must meet specific criteria under the Social Insurance Scheme to receive maternity benefits during this period.
Q: Are there any legal protections for fathers taking parental leave in Cyprus?
Fathers are protected from dismissal during paternity leave. Employers must also comply with regulations concerning the employee's rights to return to work after their leave.
Q: Can an employer refuse maternity leave in Cyprus?
Employers cannot refuse maternity leave in Cyprus. It is a legal entitlement, and any attempt to do so may result in legal consequences, including compensation for the employee.
Q: How does the law ensure job security after maternity leave in Cyprus?
The law guarantees that employees can return to their original position after maternity leave. Employers must reinstate employees without penalty or changes to their job status.
Q: How is maternity leave calculated in Cyprus?
Maternity leave in Cyprus is calculated based on the employee’s contributions to the social insurance system. The full 18 weeks are provided, with mandatory time off prior to childbirth.
