Paternity Leave Application

A paternity leave application is a formal letter or email written by an employee to request time off from work to care for a newborn or newly adopted child. This period of parental leave gives fathers the chance to support their partner and spend quality time with the baby during the first few weeks after birth or adoption.

The application generally includes key details such as the employee’s name, job title, contact information, the reason for leave, and the specific dates of absence. This helps the employer or HR department plan work distribution and ensure continuity during the employee’s time off.

How to Apply for Paternity Leave

India does not have a single, universal law for paternity leave.

• Government employees are allowed up to 15 days of paternity leave under the Central Civil Services (Leave) Rules, 1972.
• Private sector employees depend on their company’s internal paternity leave rules and policies.

Here are the general steps to apply for paternity leave in India:

1. Check the company’s leave policy:
   Review your employee handbook or contact HR to confirm your eligibility, the number of days allowed, and whether the leave is paid.
2. Plan in advance:
   Notify your manager early so you can delegate tasks and make proper handover arrangements. Early communication helps avoid workflow disruptions.
3. Write a formal paternity leave request:
   Include the reason for leave, expected start and end dates, and any important details about your work handover. Keep a copy of your paternity leave application for your records.
4. Discuss with your manager:
   Meet or email your supervisor to explain your request and finalize the schedule before submission.
5. Submit to HR:
   Send your paternity leave email or letter to the HR department for official approval and documentation.

Before submitting, ensure you have confirmed the company’s paternity leave rules and procedures with HR. Once verified, draft a simple, polite application addressed to your manager or HR representative.

Do Check: Casual Leave Application

How to Write a Paternity Leave Application

A paternity leave application should be written professionally and clearly. It informs your organization of your intent to take time off and helps HR manage work arrangements in your absence. Follow this step-by-step format:

1. Start with a Salutation:
   Address the letter formally, e.g., “Dear [Manager’s Name]” or “To the HR Department.”
2. State the Purpose:
   Begin by stating that you are requesting paternity leave due to the birth or adoption of your child. Mention your intended leave dates.
3. Mention the Duration:
   Specify how long you wish to be away — for example, 10 or 15 days — as per your company’s paternity leave policy.
4. Include Relevant Dates:
   Clearly mention your start date, end date, and the expected return date. If the situation changes, you can later update HR accordingly.
5. Explain the Reason:
   Briefly explain that you are taking time off to care for your newborn and support your partner during recovery.
6. Show Appreciation:
   End the application by thanking your manager or HR for considering your request and for their support during this important time.
7. Provide Contact Details:
   Include your phone number and email address so you can be reached if necessary while on leave.

By following this format, you can write a clear and respectful paternity leave application that meets both personal and professional requirements.

Tips for Writing a Paternity Leave Application

Writing a clear and professional paternity leave application helps ensure that your request is approved smoothly. Follow the steps below to make your paternity leave request effective and error-free.

1. Know Your Company’s Policy

Before writing your letter, read your organization’s paternity leave policy carefully. Understand how many days of paternity leave in India you are eligible for and what documents may be required. Following the right process reflects professionalism and helps avoid confusion.

2. Be Clear and Direct

Keep your letter short and focused. Mention the reason for your leave, the duration, and your expected return date clearly. Avoid long explanations or unnecessary details.

3. Include All Necessary Information

Provide complete details such as your leave dates, your contact number, and your department. This helps your employer plan work schedules in your absence.

4. Maintain a Professional Tone

Since a paternity leave application is a formal document, use polite and professional language. Avoid slang or casual words. Keep the tone respectful and businesslike throughout your email or letter.

5. Apply Early

Submit your paternity leave request well in advance of your planned leave. Early notice gives your employer enough time to arrange a replacement or manage workload during your absence.

6. Show Appreciation

End your paternity leave email by thanking your manager or HR department for their support and understanding. Expressing gratitude helps maintain a positive and respectful tone.

7. Review Before Sending

Always proofread your letter or email before submission. Correct spelling, grammar, and date errors to ensure your application looks professional and easy to understand.

Do Check: Earned Leave Application

Paternity Leave Application Format

Sample 1: Paternity Leave Application (Before Delivery)

Subject: Paternity Leave Application – Before Delivery

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I am writing this paternity leave application to request time off as my wife is expecting our baby soon. As per our company’s paternity leave rules, I would like to take 10 days of paternity leave from [Start Date] to [End Date] to support her before and during delivery.

I have already completed my ongoing assignments and handed over remaining work to [Colleague’s Name] to ensure a smooth workflow.

Kindly approve my paternity leave request.

Thank you for your understanding.

Yours sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Designation]
[Department]
[Contact Number]

Sample 2: Paternity Leave Application (After Delivery)

Subject: Request for Paternity Leave – After Delivery

Dear [Supervisor’s Name],

I am glad to inform you that my wife delivered our baby on [Date]. I am submitting this paternity leave application to request 12 days of leave starting [Start Date] to [End Date] to take care of my family and bond with my newborn.

During my absence, [Colleague’s Name] will oversee my ongoing work. I will remain available by phone for urgent matters.

Please approve this paternity leave email request as per our company policy.

Warm regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Designation]
[Employee ID]

Sample 3: Paternity Leave Application for Government Employees

To,
The Manager,
[Department Name],
[Organization/Office Name]

Subject: Application for Paternity Leave as per Government Rules

Dear Sir/Madam,

I, [Your Name], working as [Your Designation] (Employee ID [Number]) in the [Department], request 15 days of paternity leave under the Central Civil Services (Leave) Rules 1972.

My wife is due to deliver our child on [Expected Date]. I wish to take leave from [Start Date] to [End Date] to support her during this important time.

I have arranged for work handover to [Colleague’s Name] and will be reachable on [Phone Number] if required.

Please approve my paternity leave application for govt employees as per rules.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Designation]
[Employee ID]
[Contact Details]

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Sample 4: Paternity Leave Email (Private Sector)

Subject: Paternity Leave Request

Dear [HR Name],

I am writing this paternity leave email to formally request paternity leave from [Start Date] to [End Date]. My wife and I are expecting our first child, and I would like to be by her side during this period.

According to the paternity leave policy of our organization, I am eligible for [Number of Days] of leave. Please confirm if any documents are needed to process my request.

Thank you for considering my parental leave application.

Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Job Title]
[Employee Code]
[Mobile Number]

Sample 5: Paternity Leave Application for Teachers

Subject: Paternity Leave Application for Teachers

Dear Principal,

I am writing to request paternity leave from [Start Date] to [End Date] as my wife is expecting our child. As per the school’s paternity leave rules, I am entitled to [Number of Days] of leave.

I have informed my colleagues [Names] to take over my classes during this time. I assure you that all lesson plans and materials are prepared for smooth continuity.

Kindly approve my paternity leave application.

Thank you for your understanding.

Yours faithfully,
[Your Name]
[Subject Teacher]
[School Name]
[Contact Number]

Sample 6: Paternity Leave Application for Railway / PSU Employees

To,
The Senior Manager,
Indian Railways, [Division/Branch]

Subject: Paternity Leave Request

Dear Sir/Madam,

I, [Your Name], working as [Designation] in the Indian Railways, respectfully request 15 days of paternity leave as my wife is due to give birth on [Expected Date].

In line with the government paternity leave rules, I wish to avail this leave from [Start Date] to [End Date]. I have arranged for my duties to be handled by [Colleague’s Name] during this time.

Please approve my paternity leave application.

Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
[Designation]
[Employee ID]
[Contact Details]

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Sample 7: Emergency Paternity Leave Application (Short Notice)

Subject: Emergency Paternity Leave Request

Dear [Manager’s Name],

This is to inform you that my wife has delivered our baby earlier than expected on [Date]. I need to take emergency paternity leave from [Start Date] to [End Date].

I had briefed my colleague [Name] about my projects, and all urgent matters are already updated. I apologize for the short notice and will remain available on [Phone Number] for any immediate needs.

Please consider my paternity leave request favorably.

Regards,
[Your Name]
[Department]
[Employee ID]

Sample 8: Paternity Leave Application After Adoption (Parental Leave)

Subject: Application for Paternity Leave – Child Adoption

Dear [HR Manager’s Name],

I am submitting this paternity leave application to request parental leave following the adoption of a baby under one year old.

In accordance with our organization’s paternity leave policy, I would like to take [Number of Days] days off from [Start Date] to [End Date] to care for and bond with my child.

Please confirm the documentation required to process my paternity leave in India as per company guidelines.

Thank you for your time and understanding.

Warm regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Designation]
[Department]
[Contact Number]

Paternity Leave Rules and Rights in India

Paternity leave in India gives fathers the chance to take time off from work to support their partner and newborn during the first few weeks of parenthood. However, paternity leave rules are not the same for everyone. The rights and policies differ for government and private sector employees.

Overview of Paternity Leave Entitlement

According to a UNICEF 2023 survey, around 65 % of large private companies in India now provide at least two weeks of paternity leave as part of their parental leave programs. Still, there is no single national law that mandates paternity leave for all private employers.

Benefits of Paternity Leave for Fathers

Paternity leave meaning goes beyond just taking days off — it’s about being present, building relationships, and supporting equality at home and at work.

1. Strengthening Father–Child Bond: Fathers can spend time with their newborn, helping to build an early emotional connection.
2. Supporting Partners: A father’s presence allows the mother to rest and recover, promoting teamwork during the early “fourth trimester.”
3. Balancing Family and Work: Paternity leave helps fathers manage professional and family responsibilities more smoothly.
4. Breaking Stereotypes: When men take paternity leave, it challenges the idea that child care is solely the mother’s duty.
5. Boosting Workplace Morale: Companies that support parental leave often see higher job satisfaction and loyalty.
6. Encouraging Equality: It helps create a progressive, inclusive workplace culture that values shared caregiving.

In short, paternity leave is not just an employee benefit — it’s a step toward gender equality and family well-being.

Do Check: Application for 3 Days Leave to Principal

Does Indian Law Mandate Paternity Leave?

Currently, Indian law does not make paternity leave compulsory for all sectors.

• Government employees are covered under official paternity leave rules.
• Private companies are free to design their own paternity leave policy and decide whether the leave is paid or unpaid.

Public sector offices must follow government-approved leave rules. Private employers, however, may grant anywhere from 5 to 15 days of leave, depending on their internal HR policies.

Paternity Leave Policy in India for Public Sector Employees

Central Government Employees

Under the Central Civil Services (Leave) Rules 551(A), 1972, male central government employees with no more than two surviving children are entitled to 15 days of paid paternity leave.

• It may be taken 15 days before or up to 6 months after the birth (or adoption) of the child.
• Full salary is paid during this period.
• The leave lapses if not used within six months.

State Government Employees

Paternity leave for state government staff varies:

Eligibility for Public Sector Paternity Leave

To qualify under government paternity leave rules, an employee must:

• Be a male public servant with less than two living children.
• Have a spouse who is delivering or have legally adopted a child.
• Have completed at least 80 days of service in the previous 12 months.

Duration for Public Sector Employees

Paternity Leave Rules in India for Private Sector Employees

There is no national law requiring private companies to provide paternity leave. Hence, the policy is company-specific and part of their broader parental leave framework.

Eligibility

Eligibility generally depends on each organization’s HR policy but often includes:

• Being a male employee on the company’s rolls.
• Completing a minimum tenure (for example 90 days or 6 months).
• Having a spouse who has given birth or having adopted a child under one year old.

Duration

Private-sector employees may receive between 5 and 15 days of leave.
Some firms mirror the government’s 15-day policy, while others offer fewer days.
A few progressive organizations include gender-neutral parental leave, allowing either parent to take time off.

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Paid or Unpaid Leave

Additional Provisions under Paternity Leave Rules

1. Separate from Other Leave:
   Paternity leave is distinct and cannot be deducted from annual or medical leave.
2. Formal Application:
   Employees must submit a paternity leave application or paternity leave email to their HR department or supervisor before starting leave.
3. Protection from Denial:
   If a government employee meets all eligibility criteria, the employer cannot refuse the request.
4. Adoption Cases:
   Fathers adopting a child under one year are also eligible for paternity leave in India under government paternity leave rules.
5. Inclusivity:
   Some forward-thinking companies now extend parental leave to employees regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation, promoting equality in caregiving roles.
6. Rejoining Work:
   Employees should return on or before the approved end date and inform HR if additional unpaid leave is required.