How Many Days and Weeks Is Maternity Leave in Turkey? 2026 (24 Weeks = 168 Days)
Short answer: Maternity leave in Turkey is now 24 weeks, or 168 days: 8 weeks (56 days) before birth and 16 weeks (112 days) after. For multiple pregnancy it is 26 weeks, or 182 days.
How many days and weeks? Table
| Single pregnancy | Multiple pregnancy (twins, triplets) | |
|---|---|---|
| Before birth | 8 weeks (56 days) | 10 weeks (70 days) |
| After birth | 16 weeks (112 days) | 16 weeks (112 days) |
| Total | 24 weeks (168 days) | 26 weeks (182 days) |
The previous rule was 16 weeks in total: 8 before and 8 after birth (112 days). The change was made to Article 74 of Labour Law No. 4857 and published in the Official Gazette on 1 May 2026.
Weeks are counted in calendar days
Leave is defined in weeks, so it is counted in calendar days. 24 weeks is exactly 168 days. Use the maternity leave calculator to see your own dates.
Does working until birth change the total?
No. If your health allows and your doctor approves you may work until two weeks before birth. The days you work are added to leave after birth and the total stays 24 weeks. See the 2-week rule.
Is leave shorter after an early birth?
No. Pre-birth days you could not use are added after birth. See early birth.
What happens after leave ends?
You may request up to six months of unpaid leave. See unpaid leave.
Civil servants
According to news reports the change covers mothers in the public and private sectors. Civil servants keep receiving their salary during leave and do not receive maternity pay. Check with your institution for your exact period.
Frequently asked questions
Is maternity leave 168 days?
Yes, 24 weeks or 168 days for a single pregnancy. For multiple pregnancy 26 weeks or 182 days.
Was maternity leave 4 months?
The previous rule was 16 weeks (about 4 months). Now it is 24 weeks (about 6 months).
For how many days is maternity pay paid?
The allowance is paid for the leave days you do not work. Use the maternity pay calculator to estimate the amount.
Source: Labour Law No. 4857 Article 74 (as amended, Official Gazette of 1 May 2026). For information only; check with your employer and SGK.