Miscarriage leave is provided to parents and prospective parents when there is a spontaneous or medically anticipated loss of pregnancy due to natural reasons or medical complications, or when the pregnancy ends because of a medical procedure that is performed. For the purpose of this leave, pregnancy loss also includes conditions such as ectopic pregnancy and molar pregnancy, ensuring that individuals experiencing these circumstances are equally entitled to the support provided under miscarriage leave.

If a pregnancy ends before the twenty second (22^nd) week, it is considered a miscarriage, and the parents are entitled to Miscarriage Leave, whether such miscarriage occurs in Malta or outside Malta. If the pregnancy reaches twenty-two (22) weeks or more, the parents are entitled to maternity leave even in the event of a pregnancy loss.

Yes, Miscarriage Leave is legally provided as a separate leave entitlement.

This leave will come into effect as from the 1st of January 2026.

This law is meant for every worker, regardless of gender or sexual orientation, and it includes both men and women, as long as they have a work contract or a working relationship that is recognised by the law or by collective agreements.

The right to Miscarriage Leave extends to all employees, whether full-time or part-time, and whether on a permanent or fixed-term contract. Part-time workers are entitled to Miscarriage Leave on a pro-rata basis.

The employer shall provide miscarriage leave with full basic pay.

Every worker has the right to seven (7) working days of paid Miscarriage Leave when a miscarriage occurs, and this leave should be taken immediately following the miscarriage.