When you adopt a child under the age of 18, you have the right to six weeks adoption leave in total. It is mandatory to take one week of adoption leave, and the 6-week period may be extended in certain cases.

The table below outlines the basics about adoption leave for:
- employees in the Belgian system; and
- self-employed parents in the Belgian system.
Any differences for employees / self-employed are indicated.
If you are unemployed, or are being indemnified after the end of your work contract, you are not entitled to adoption leave.
When can I take adoption leave? | The adoption leave can start:
International adoption In the case of international adoption, your adoption leave can start before your child is registered at the commune, to allow you to bring your child back from his/her country of origin yourself. Your adoption leave can begin the day after you receive the official confirmation of the adoption. |
Length of leave | When you adopt a child under the age of 18, you have the right to up to six weeks in total. It is mandatory to take one week of adoption leave, and the 6-week period may be extended in certain cases:
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Formalities | To receive payment for your adoption leave, make a request for adoption leave to your mutuelle:
Any request made later than this is refused. Along with your request, include an attestation of the adoption procedure, and if relevant, an attestation of the child's handicap. If you are unsure of which documents are needed, check with your mutuelle in advance. At the end of your adoption leave:
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How much will I get paid? | Employee The first 3 days of adoption leave are paid by your employer, at 100% of your usual salary. Your mutuelle pays the remaining time, at 82% of your usual salary, with an upper limit. Self-employed You receive a fixed amount per week of adoption leave. This is paid in one go, at the latest one month after the start of your leave. |