kompas
👨‍🍼
parental leave at the birth of a child

What does “Otcovská” mean in Czechia?

Otcovská (father's postnatal care) — a benefit from sickness insurance for a father after the birth of a child. It did not change in 2026.

How much and when

  • 2 weeks (14 days)
  • 70% of average daily earnings
  • must start within 6 weeks (42 days) of birth
  • you choose the start date yourself

Main rule

Otcovská is taken in full — you cannot split it into parts and "take the rest later".

For OSVČ

Voluntary sickness insurance is required, paid for at least 3 months before the start.

Important. You cannot split paternity leave: if you take it, you must take all 14 days in a row. And the window is only 6 weeks from birth – if you miss it, the right is gone.

Examples of use

SK
I must start parental leave within six weeks of the child's birth.
You must start parental leave within six weeks of the child's birth.
SK
Paternity leave lasts 14 days and is 70% of the daily assessment base.
Paternity leave lasts 14 days and is 70% of the daily base (DVZ).

Frequently asked questions

Can I take paternity leave in parts?
No, only fully — 14 days in a row.
Can a self-employed person (OSVČ) do this?
Yes, if they have voluntary sickness insurance, paid for at least 3 months before the start.

Similar terms