Key takeaway
Understand statutory maternity leave and the €289/week Maternity Benefit payment in Ireland, including PRSI eligibility rules for newcomers.
Ireland gives all employed women — regardless of nationality — a day-one right to 26 weeks of statutory maternity leave. But the related cash payment, Maternity Benefit, depends on your PRSI record, which trips up many newcomers. Here's how it works.
How Much Maternity Leave Are You Entitled To?
All employees in Ireland are entitled to 26 weeks of paid statutory maternity leave (paid via Maternity Benefit, not necessarily by your employer) plus an optional additional 16 weeks unpaid leave. This is a legal entitlement from your first day of employment — you don't need a minimum period of service to qualify for leave itself.
What Is Maternity Benefit and How Much Is It?
Maternity Benefit is a state payment of €289 per week as of 2025, paid by the Department of Social Protection for up to 26 weeks. It is separate from any employer top-up — some employers pay full or partial salary during leave and reclaim the state benefit, while others don't top up at all, so check your contract.
Do Newcomers Qualify for Maternity Benefit?
Eligibility is based on PRSI (social insurance) contributions, not nationality. You generally need at least 39 weeks of PRSI paid contributions in the 12 months before your leave starts, or 39 weeks paid since starting work if that's less than a year, or 26 weeks paid in each of the two relevant tax years. Newcomers who arrived in Ireland recently and have limited PRSI history may not initially qualify — check your record via gov.ie or MyWelfare.ie before assuming entitlement.
How Do You Apply for Maternity Benefit?
Apply online via MyWelfare.ie at least 6 weeks before your leave starts (12 weeks if self-employed), providing your PPS number, employer details, and expected due date confirmed by your GP or hospital. Payments are made directly into your bank account weekly or in a lump sum depending on preference.
What About Self-Employed Newcomers?
Self-employed women (Class S PRSI) can also claim Maternity Benefit if they meet the relevant contribution conditions, generally 52 weeks of Class S contributions paid in the relevant tax year.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is Maternity Benefit in Ireland in 2025?
The standard rate is €289 per week, paid for up to 26 weeks by the Department of Social Protection, subject to meeting PRSI contribution conditions.
Do I need a minimum period of employment to get maternity leave in Ireland?
No, statutory maternity leave (26 weeks plus optional 16 unpaid) is a day-one right for all employees regardless of how long you've worked for your employer.
Can newcomers to Ireland claim Maternity Benefit?
Yes, provided you meet PRSI contribution requirements — generally 39 weeks paid in the relevant 12-month period. Recently arrived workers with limited PRSI history should check their record before assuming eligibility.
Does my employer have to pay my full salary during maternity leave?
Not necessarily — this depends on your employment contract. Many employers top up the state Maternity Benefit to full salary, but it's not a legal requirement in Ireland.
How far in advance should I apply for Maternity Benefit?
Apply at least 6 weeks before your leave start date (12 weeks if self-employed) via MyWelfare.ie to avoid payment delays.
General guidance only. Always verify with official sources — gov.ie, citizensinformation.ie, hse.ie.