As from 1st January 2026, Special Parental Bereavement Leave is a new type of entitlement granted to working parents who experience the loss of a child under the age of eighteen (18). This leave allows parents to take seven (7) working days, away from work to grieve and manage personal matters following such a loss. Previously, parents were entitled to only one (1) or two (2) days of leave depending on the sector, but this new measure significantly extends the period to seven (7) days.

This entitlement is being introduced as a separate form of leave under the law, ensuring that parents have specific protection and support in such difficult circumstances. Like other forms of statutory leave, Special Parental Bereavement Leave will be paid, with payment based on the employee’s basic wage.

The cost of this leave will be shared between employers and the government. Depending on the sector, the employer will cover the first one (1) or two (2) days, while the remaining days, up to the full seven days (7), will be funded by the Department for Social Security. Part-time employees or those working reduced hours will also be entitled to this leave, calculated on a pro-rata basis according to their working hours.

To benefit from this entitlement, the bereaved parent must notify their employer, who will then apply for reimbursement from the Department for Social Security. Employers must submit this application within three (3) months from the date the employee took the leave. The refund applies exclusively to days taken as Special Parental Bereavement Leave and not to any other type of absence or leave entitlement.