Maternity Leave Calculator
Calculate your maternity leave dates, UIF benefit estimates, and important deadlines under South African law (BCEA).
Calculate Your Maternity Leave
Optional — used to estimate UIF benefits
Your Maternity Leave Rights in South Africa
BCEA Entitlements
- 4 consecutive months (121 days) maternity leave
- Can start up to 4 weeks before due date
- Must not work for 6 weeks after birth
- Cannot be dismissed for pregnancy
- Must provide 4 weeks written notice
UIF Benefits
- Up to 66% of your salary
- Maximum 121 days coverage
- Apply at Department of Labour office
- Need UI-2.7 and UI-2.8 forms
- Apply before leave starts
Required Documents for UIF
- South African ID document (or valid passport)
- Proof of pregnancy — clinic card or letter from your doctor/midwife
- UI-2.7 form — completed and stamped by your employer
- UI-2.8 form — application for maternity benefits
- Bank statement or letter from your bank (not older than 3 months)
- Copy of your latest payslip
Important Notes
- Your employer is not legally required to pay you during maternity leave (unless your contract states otherwise)
- Some medical aids offer a maternity benefit — check with your scheme
- You continue to accrue annual leave during maternity leave
- Your employer must keep your position open for your return
- If you experience complications, you may qualify for additional leave on medical grounds
Got questions?
Frequently Asked Questions
Under the Basic Conditions of Employment Act (BCEA), you are entitled to at least 4 consecutive months (121 days) of maternity leave. You can start leave up to 4 weeks before your due date, or earlier if a medical practitioner certifies it is necessary.
The BCEA does not require employers to pay you during maternity leave. However, many employers do offer paid maternity leave as a benefit. If you are a UIF contributor, you can claim UIF maternity benefits of up to 66% of your salary for the duration of your leave (up to 121 days).
You need to apply at your nearest Department of Employment and Labour office. Required documents include your ID, proof of pregnancy (clinic card or letter from doctor), UI-2.7 form (completed by employer), UI-2.8 form, and a bank statement. Apply before your leave starts for timely payment.
No. The Labour Relations Act prohibits dismissal based on pregnancy. If you are dismissed because of your pregnancy, it is automatically considered an unfair dismissal. You can refer the matter to the CCMA for resolution.
You must give your employer at least 4 weeks written notice before starting maternity leave. However, many women inform their employer earlier, often after the first trimester (12 weeks), to make workplace arrangements.
Under the Labour Laws Amendment Act (2018), fathers are entitled to 10 consecutive days of unpaid paternity leave when their child is born. They can also claim UIF benefits during this period.
About the Author
Due Date Calculator SA Editorial Team
Our content is reviewed by healthcare professionals familiar with South African maternal health practices. We combine evidence-based medical information with local knowledge to support South African mums throughout their pregnancy journey. Our team includes contributors with backgrounds in midwifery, obstetrics, and maternal health education.
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