Maternity Compensation
Generally, working mothers are entitled to a paid maternity leave (Mutterschaftsurlaub) of 14 weeks. During this time they recieve at least 80 percent of their wages. Unemployed women or women unable to work should ask their community social insurance office (Gemeindezweigstelle der Sozialversicherungsanstalt SVA) whether they also qualify. In this case, special rules apply. Women are not permitted to work during the first eight weeks following childbirth (maternity protection).