Q1: What maternity leave are women entitled to in Jordan?
Women are entitled to 10 weeks of paid maternity leave, which includes time both before and after childbirth. At least six weeks must be taken after delivery before the employee can return to work. Employers are legally prohibited from requiring a return during this time. This protects the mother’s health and recovery.
Q2: Can mothers take breaks to breastfeed during work?
Yes, working mothers are allowed to take up to one paid hour per day to breastfeed during the first year after giving birth. This right is protected by law and cannot be denied by the employer. The hour can be taken during work hours. This ensures support for maternal and child health.
Q3: Do employers need to provide childcare facilities?
Yes, if a company employs 20 or more married women and at least 10 of them have children under the age of four, the employer must provide a nursery. The facility must be staffed with a trained caregiver. This law helps working mothers balance work and family responsibilities. It is strictly enforced by the Ministry.
Q4: Can women take extended leave to care for their children?
Yes, a woman working in a company with 10 or more employees is entitled to up to one year of unpaid leave to raise her children. She has the legal right to return to her job after this leave. However, if she works elsewhere during this period, she may lose her reinstatement rights. This promotes work-family balance.
Q5: How much sick leave is a worker entitled to annually?
Workers are entitled to 14 days of fully paid sick leave per year with a medical certificate. If hospitalized, this can be extended by another 14 days with full pay. If not hospitalized, half pay applies for an additional 14 days if approved by a medical committee. Proper documentation is required in all cases.
Q6: Can workers take leave for education or training?
Yes, workers may take 14 days of paid leave annually to attend an approved education course if nominated by their employer. Additionally, they may take up to four months of unpaid leave to study at an accredited institution. This supports skill development. Workers may also take unpaid leave for union responsibilities if agreed.
Q7: Can workers take religious leave for pilgrimage?
Yes, workers are entitled to 14 days of paid leave once during their career to perform the pilgrimage (Hajj). However, this benefit is only granted after completing five consecutive years of service with the same employer. The leave is separate from annual vacation. This religious right is legally protected.
Q8: Can workers take leave to accompany a spouse?
Yes, a worker may take up to two years of unpaid leave to accompany their spouse if transferred to another province or country. This leave is granted once during employment. It helps families stay together during major relocations. The employer cannot deny this leave without a valid reason.
Q9: Can leave be granted for trade union duties?
Yes, workers may take leave for trade union responsibilities if both parties agree. The duration of the leave is based on mutual agreement and the nature of union duties. This ensures active participation in workers’ rights. The Labour Code encourages union involvement through such provisions.
Q10: What happens to unused leave if a worker resigns or is terminated?
If a worker resigns or is terminated, the employer must pay for any unused annual leave. This includes both earned and carried-over days. Workers cannot waive their right to compensation for unused leave. This ensures fair settlement upon ending the employment relationship.
