Greece expands maternity protection leave to adoptive, part‑time and same‑sex parents

A new ministerial decision widens Greece's special nine‑month maternity protection leave. The entitlement, previously limited to biological mothers, now covers mothers who adopt children up to eight years old, mothers through surrogate pregnancies, and couples in same‑sex relationships.

The reform also extends the benefit to women in part‑time or parallel employment and to former self‑employed workers who have become salaried employees. Employers may fill the position during the leave without affecting the worker’s right to receive the minimum‑wage subsidy from the Ministry of Labour and Social Insurance (DYPA). Applications require submission of the birth certificate, adoption papers or surrogate‑parenthood documentation.

The changes aim to reduce distortions, promote equality in the workplace and ensure broader access to the protective leave scheme.