Parents expecting a newborn can soon enjoy more time with their babies, as the government increases shared parental leave for children born on or after April 1.

Under the updated scheme, eligible working parents will be entitled to 10 weeks of shared leave, on top of their existing maternity or paternity benefits, the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) announced on March 26. This is an increase from the six weeks offered when the scheme was first introduced in 2025.

The enhanced leave arrangement means that, together with government-paid maternity and paternity leave, parents could receive up to 30 weeks of paid leave in the first year of their child’s life. The shared leave will initially be divided equally between both parents, although MSF notes that couples may adjust the allocation according to their caregiving needs.

Parents are encouraged to discuss their plans with their employers early to allow for smooth scheduling and work arrangements. If parents cannot reach an agreement, the leave may be taken as a continuous block within the first 26 weeks after birth, with a minimum notice period of four weeks.

The shared parental leave must be taken within 12 months of the child’s birth and only after parents have fully used their existing maternity or paternity leave, MSF clarified.

The ministry has also provided guides for both parents and employers to help them navigate the new leave arrangements. The move is part of ongoing efforts to support families and encourage shared caregiving responsibilities.

With Singapore’s rising focus on family-friendly policies, the expanded leave scheme gives working parents more flexibility to balance their careers and newborn care, while promoting stronger family bonds during the crucial early months of a child’s life.