Paternity Leave in Poland
Employed fathers in Poland can take two weeks of fully paid paternity leave before their child's first birthday.
Last updated: 13 November 2026
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Poland paternity leave at a glance
An employed father raising his child can take two paid weeks of paternity leave, independently of the mother's entitlement.
- Leave length
- 2 weeks (including weekends).
- When to take it
- Before the child turns 12 months, in one block or two blocks of one week.
- Pay
- The maternity insurance benefit pays 100% of your benefit base, through ZUS or your employer.
- Who qualifies
- An employee father raising the child. Apply on paper or electronically at least 7 days before the leave.
- Self-employed fathers
- Self-employed fathers with sickness insurance can receive the equivalent benefit.
Parental leave on top of paternity leave
Parental leave includes 9 non-transferable weeks reserved for each parent, paid at 70%.
Good to know
- The father's right does not depend on whether the mother works.
Legal entitlement vs employer benefits
The rules above are the legal minimum in Poland. Many employers offer extra paid days or top up statutory pay. Add any employer leave in the calculator above to see your real return-to-work date, and confirm the details with your HR team. To compare pay over the weeks you take off, try the paternity pay calculator.
Other European guides
Official sources
Frequently asked questions
Editorial note: we summarise official government guidance and link to it. Laws change — always confirm your entitlement with your employer or the relevant authority. This page is not legal advice.