France birth leave policy faces payment delays

Following the implementation of a new birth leave policy on July 1, 2026, in France, many parents are facing delays in receiving compensation. The policy, established by the 2026 Social Security Financing Act, allows parents to take one or two months of compensated leave in addition to maternity, paternity, or adoption leave.

For employees, the first month is compensated at 70% of the reference net salary, and the second month at 60%, subject to a monthly Social Security ceiling of 4,005 euros. Payments are processed by the CPAM after each full month of leave has elapsed, calculated from date to date. This specific payment schedule has led to confusion and concerns among beneficiaries who have not yet seen funds in their accounts.