vanemahüvitist

Vanemahüvitis is a state benefit in Estonia designed to provide financial support to a parent who takes parental leave to care for a child. It is intended to replace part of the parent’s earnings during the time spent away from work and is administered through the Estonian Health Insurance Fund (Haigekassa). The benefit can be received by biological parents, adoptive parents, or guardians who take parental leave in relation to a child.

Eligibility is generally tied to health insurance status and prior income on which social insurance contributions were paid during a qualifying period before the leave begins. The entitlement applies to each child, and the days of leave can be used by one parent or shared between parents according to the rules, with the possibility to transfer a portion of the leave between parents under certain conditions.

Parental leave under vanemahüvitis can last up to a maximum number of days per child (commonly stated as up to 435 days). The benefit amount depends on earned income and statutory rate rules, with different rate portions applicable for different segments of the leave. The system is designed to support both primary caregiving and shared parenting arrangements.

Application is submitted to Haigekassa, usually with documents such as the child’s birth or adoption certificate and proof of employment and income for the relevant period. Payments are made monthly during the leave, subject to eligibility and applicable interaction with other benefits and taxes.

See also: maternity benefit (emaduspuhkus), paternity leave (isapuhkus), other family benefits (toetused). For current rates, durations, and exact eligibility criteria, consult Haigekassa or official Estonian Social Insurance information.