Brazil labor laws guarantee rights for pregnant workers

In Brazil, pregnant women with formal employment contracts are entitled to several legal protections, including a 120-day maternity leave and job stability. Under current legislation, employees are protected against arbitrary dismissal from the confirmation of pregnancy until five months after childbirth. If a dismissal occurs during this period, the worker may demand reinstatement or corresponding compensation.

Law No. 15.221, dated September 29, 2025, strengthens these rights, including mandatory monitoring during the first thousand days of a child's life. The law also covers cases of adoption or judicial custody. Additionally, companies participating in the 'Empresa Cidadã' program may grant an extension of maternity leave by an additional 60 days upon request. In instances where either the mother or the newborn requires hospitalization for more than two weeks due to complications, the beneficiary may seek to extend the leave for up to 120 days following discharge.