Hello future dads! If you are reading this, you must be pretty excited about welcoming a new little one into your family and are mainly here to gather information about paternity leave in Singapore. Certainly, you have come to the right spot! Let us try our best to walk you through everything you should know about the proceedings of applying for paternity leave in the Lion City.
What Does Paternity Leaves Mean In Singapore?
First and foremost, let’s get down to your entitlements. From 2024 onwards, the working fathers eligible in Singapore will receive a paternity leave of a maximum of two weeks at government expense. Two whole weeks to get to know your little one and support your partner during this fascinating-but-sleepless period!
Paternity Leave Singapore: Am I Eligible?
Before you start planning your leave, let’s make sure that you qualify. Here is what you need to check:
- Your child must be a Singapore citizen.
- You must be lawfully married to the child’s mother.
- You must have been employed for at least 3 continuous months before the child’s birth.
- You must have advised your employer of the leave at least 1 week before the actual date of leave.
Nothing to wriggle about if you are self-employed! It is a valid reason if you have run your business for at least 3 continuous months without income during the time for paternity leave.
Also Read:- Singapore Employment Law | What Employers Need to Know
When Can I Take My Leave?
Flexibility is key here. You can take your two weeks of paternity leave:
- In one continuous block within 16 weeks after the birth of your child
- Flexibly within 12 months after the birth of your child
Pro tip: Talk to your partner about when you’ll be needed most. Maybe it’s right after the birth, or perhaps a few weeks later when they’re transitioning back to work.
Paternity Leave Singapore: How Do I Apply?
Now, let’s move on to the least complicated part of taking your paternity leave: the application. Here are the steps to be followed:
- Tell them in advance: Be sure to give your boss at least a week’s notice before going on leave. Do so in writing to avoid any confusion.
- Fill out the other forms: Forms should be provided for you by HR. If they do not provide it to you, you can find them on the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) website.
- Submit the necessary documents: You’ll have to provide photocopies of your birth certificate and, if you’re married, your marriage certificate.
- Submit the application and documents to HR for processing: Submit your filled-out application along with the other required documents to HR. They will then process the application and liaise with the government officials on your behalf.
Paternity Leave Singapore: Commonly Asked Questions
What If I’m Self-Employed?
You will have to take these steps instead, if you are self-employed:
- Inform all of your clients about your paternity leave.
- Apply to the government directly through the Government-Paid Leave (GPL) Portal.
- Submit your application anytime within 3 months of the last day of your paternity leave period.
Will I Get Paid?
Yes, you will! The government will give reimbursement to your employer for the leave, not exceeding $2500 per week, along with CPF contributions. On the other hand, if you’re self-employed, you can claim losses up to $2500 on a weekly basis for your absence due to business commitments.
What If Something Goes Wrong?
But things don’t always go as planned; if your application is rejected or you run into any trouble, don’t panic, and therefore, call the MSF or connect with your HR department. They’re there to help you through it.
Optimize Your Paternity Leave
How do you make the most of your time off now that you have the basics? Use some of the following tips:
- Be present: Keep your phone out of reach and cherish those precious moments with your little one.
- Be supportive: Remember that your partner is recovering from quite an event. Help her out with night feedings or even a nice shower.
- Learn the ropes: Use the occasion to grow yourself in baby care: change a diaper here and there, maybe give a bath or two and see how you may be able to calm your little one.
- Take care of yourself: Newborns are way beyond draining: catch up on some sleep when given a chance, or take a few minutes for self-replenishment.
- Capture the memories: Take a few pictures, blog, or journal. These memories will keep as you look back on this time.
Also Read:- Ministry of Manpower latest updates 2025
Conclusion
Applying for paternity leave in Singapore is fairly bureaucratic but actually, it’s a right so noble in nature that let you be with your family when needed most. Do not be reluctant then to take up this right seriously.
Just remember, every family is different and unique, and no family suits a particular mold. Use this time to figure out what works best for you, your partner, and your new little one.
Congratulations on your growing family, and enjoy your paternity leave!
For more detailed information on paternity leave policies in Singapore, check out the Ministry of Social and Family Development’s official page on Government-Paid Paternity Leave.
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