Otcovská dovolenka (father's leave) is a period when a father takes time off work to care for a newborn child. During this time, he receives a payment – the otcovské benefit from the Social Insurance Agency (Sociálna poisťovňa).
What to understand
- this is the father's right, separate from the mother's materská (maternity leave);
- the otcovské benefit is paid by Sociálna poisťovňa, not the employer;
- it can be taken within a certain period after the child's birth.
To be eligible for the benefit, the father must have sickness (nemocenské) insurance for the required period. The application is submitted to Sociálna poisťovňa. This option is often confused or simply unknown, so many fathers do not use it. The exact deadlines and number of weeks change from time to time, so check the specific conditions and terms directly with Sociálna poisťovňa. Inform your employer in advance so they can arrange your absence from work.
