Additional leave compliance rules and complexities

Working patterns

In Belgium, the maximum full-time working week is 38 hours. Overtime is almost unheard of. But in the rare instances where it does happen, employees get 150% of their regular pay if they work overtime on weekdays, and 200% for weekends and public holidays. However, these rules do not apply to certain job roles.

Sick leave

Employers must pay an employee’s full salary for the first 30 days of sick leave. After 30 days, Belgium’s Health Insurance Fund takes overpayment.

Maternity and paternity leave

Maternity leave is generally set at 15 weeks, split into prenatal and postnatal leave. Belgium’s Health Insurance Fund takes care of payment. Fathers can take up to 15 days paid paternity leave, or 30 half-days. The employer pays for the first three days, after which the Health Insurance Fund takes over.