Same-sex spouses are entitled to benefits.
Maternity benefits
Not available to men, as these benefits are exclusively for biological mothers.
Paternity benefits
Available to the father only.
Parental benefits
Available to the father only.
Adoption benefits
Available to both adoptive spouses.
Two spouses who adopt one or more children can share the benefits as they see fit. However, if only one of the spouses adopts one or more children, the benefits will be paid to the adoptive father only.
Benefits can be granted to the man who adopts his spouse's child.
Type of benefits according to the plan chosen
The table below indicates the maximum number of benefit weeks and percentage of average weekly earnings for each type of benefit, depending on the plan chosen.
| Type of Benefits | Basic Plan | Special Plan |
|---|---|---|
|
Paternity |
Maximum of 5 weeks. Weekly benefit: 70% of the average weekly earnings |
Maximum of 3 weeks. Weekly benefit: 75% of the average weekly earnings |
|
Parental |
Maximum of 32 weeks. Weekly benefit:
|
Maximum of 25 weeks. Weekly benefit: 75% of the average weekly earnings |
|
Adoption |
Maximum of 37 weeks. Weekly benefit:
|
Maximum of 28 weeks. Weekly benefit: 75% of the average weekly earnings |
To find out the estimated amount of benefits to which you may be entitled, you can try the benefit calculation simulator before applying.
You must agree with your employer on the time of your leave. The Act respecting labour standards has provisions on leave for family events. For more information, contact the Service des renseignements of the Commission des normes, de l'équité, de la santé et de la sécurité du travail (CNESST) at one of the following number: 1 844 838-0808 (toll free). You can also visit the CNESST website.
