Parents in Iceland who are expecting twins or triplets, or who become seriously ill during pregnancy, will now receive extended maternity leave under a new law.
The legislation, introduced by the Minister of Social Affairs and Housing, Inga Sæland, was approved by the Alþingi earlier today. It offers six extra months of leave for each additional child born.
This means parents of twins can claim a full year of leave, while those welcoming triplets may take up to 18 months.
The changes also apply to parents who adopt or foster more than one child at the same time.
Better health security
In addition, the law grants extra leave to parents who develop severe health conditions linked to pregnancy. If their illness continues after the child is born and prevents them from providing care, they may receive up to two further months of leave.
“These are reforms that can make a huge difference for the children and families in question,” the minister said in a statement to local media. “They show that we in the government mean it when we say that we are going to let the actions speak, stop the streets and improve people’s lives.”
