Lithuanian State Labour Inspectorate clarifies parental rights for September 1

The State Labour Inspectorate (VDI) has issued guidance regarding labor rights for employees raising children as the new school year approaches on September 1.

Under the Labor Code, employees raising children under 14 who are enrolled in pre-school, primary, or basic education programs are entitled to a paid half-day off on the first day of the school year, provided they do not already have an additional rest day, such as a ‘mother’s day’ or ‘father’s day’. This half-day is compensated at the average wage.

VDI Chancellor Šarūnas Orlavičius clarified that the paid half-day is not an additional guarantee to be used alongside existing parental rest days. Employees entitled to a ‘mother’s day’ or ‘father’s day’ cannot claim the paid half-day; instead, they should use their designated rest day.

For employees who have already used their additional rest time and are not eligible for the paid half-day, the VDI recommends negotiating unpaid leave with employers. Additionally, employers must provide unpaid leave upon request for employees raising children under 14, in accordance with the Labor Code.