The required notice period varies slightly across Canada, but generally, you must provide your employer with written notice of your intention to take pregnancy or parental leave. The notice should include the expected start date of your leave and, if possible, the expected return-to-work date.
- Federal (for federally regulated employees): Under the Canada Labour Code, you must give at least four weeks’ written notice before the start of your leave.
- Provincial/Territorial: Most provinces and territories have similar notice requirements, often ranging from four to eight weeks. Some jurisdictions specify a minimum notice period before your due date for pregnancy leave. In Ontario, you must provide two weeks’ notice to your employer before commencing a pregnancy or parental leave, unless you must stop working earlier (e.g. due to complications caused by the pregnancy). It’s crucial to check the specific legislation in your province or territory for the exact requirements. It is always best practice to provide as much notice as possible.
