Who is eligible for statutory adoption leave


Only employees are eligible for statutory adoption leave. Since 5 April 2015, no qualifying service is needed. There are no minimum working hours or qualifying pay thresholds. The notification requirements set out below must be followed. Only one adopting parent can take adoption leave, but the other parent may qualify for paternity leave and pay. Adoption leave can be shared (shared parental leave – see page 320).



Since April 2015, parents of a child born through surrogacy who have applied for, or intend to apply for, a parental order and parents fostering to adopt may qualify for adoption leave.