Parental Leave 2025: The Complete Guide for Parents

Parental leave 2025 is regulated by GEO no. 111/2010 and gives parents the opportunity to devote themselves to caring for their child in the first years of life. If you are about to become a parent or are already in this situation, it is important to know the conditions, legal rights and obligations. This guide clarifies everything you need to know about parental leave: duration, allowance, documents and return to work.

1. What is parental leave?

Parental leave is a temporary suspension of the employment contract, giving one parent the time needed to take care of the child. It is available to both the biological parent and the adoptive parent or legal guardian.

Who is eligible:

• Biological parent;
• Foster parent;
• Legal guardian or person with permanent placement;

2. Duration of parental leave

• Up to 2 years – for the biological or adopted child;
• Up to 3 years – for children with disabilities;
• 2 months of the total leave are reserved for the other parent – in their absence, the period is lost.

3. Conditions and Required Documents

📌 Eligibility:

• Minimum 12 months of taxable income in the last 2 years;
• Income can be from wages, self-employment, farming, etc.

📌 Documents needed:

1. Application for leave;
2. Child’s birth certificate (copy and original);
3. Income certificate from your employer;
4. Copy of the applicant’s identity card;
5. Other supporting documents, where appropriate.

4. Child Rearing Allowance

💰 Monthly amount:

• Minimum 1.500 lei/month;
• Maximum 8.500 lei/month (85% of average net income);
• The allowance is regularly indexed in line with changes in the law.

5. Rights and Obligations

✅ Rights:

• Job protection;
• No dismissal for 6 months after return;
• 50% extra allowance for each additional child (twins, triplets, etc.);

📌 Obligations:

• At least 30 days’ notice to the employer;
• Inform the authorities about changes in your income/personal situation;

6. Return to Work

• At least 30 days prior notice;
• Right to request reduction of working time by 2 hours/day for up to 3 years;
• Possibility of remote/teleworking if the nature of the job allows;

7. Conclusion

Parental leave is a valuable time in the life of a family. With the right information and the right paperwork, you can take advantage of this right without hassle. Make sure you know your rights and follow the legal procedures in force in 2025.

Need help with the paperwork or want to make sure you meet the conditions for parental leave? Contact our team of consultants and we’ll support you step by step!

For other HR topics of interest see also this article.