Apply for Parental Leave Documents
Apply for Employment Insurance (EI) maternity and parental benefits after the birth or adoption of a child.
This guide is for planning and preparation. Details may change, so verify current requirements with the official sources before applying, paying fees, or submitting documents.
Review and freshness
This guide has a recorded editorial review date. Always verify final requirements, fees, forms, and appointment rules with official sources before applying.
Estimated timeline
1 to 4 weeks for the first payment
Estimated fees
Usually free
Who this is for
Expectant parents or newly adoptive parents in Canada seeking income replacement while away from work.
Location
Canada
Eligibility
Insurable hours
You must have accumulated at least 600 hours of insurable employment in the 52 weeks before the start of your claim.
Earnings reduction
Your normal weekly earnings must be reduced by more than 40%.
Required documents checklist
Tap each item as you gather it. This progress stays in your browser for the current page session.
Visual step flow
Scan the process before you start
Use this overview to understand the order, then track each item in the checklist below.
Determine the leave type
Decide whether to choose standard parental benefits (up to 40 weeks at 55%) or extended (up to 69 weeks at 33%).
Stop working
You can only apply once you have stopped working.
Apply online
Complete the online EI application on the Service Canada website as soon as possible.
Wait for the access code
Receive a 4-digit access code in the mail to track your claim status.
Step-by-step instructions
Use this as a working checklist from preparation through submission.
Estimated fees
Application fee
Applying for EI benefits is free.
Before submitting
Avoid rejected applications and wasted trips
Check these practical points before you pay fees, attend appointments, or hand over original documents.
Common mistakes
- Waiting too long to apply. Apply right after your last day of work, even if your employer hasn't issued the ROE yet.
- Choosing standard vs extended benefits without discussing it with the other parent (the choice is irrevocable once benefits begin).
FAQ
Can parents share the leave?
Yes, parents can share parental benefits. If they do, they get access to extra weeks (e.g., 5 extra weeks for standard leave).
Can I work while on parental leave?
Yes, but your benefits will be reduced by 50 cents for every dollar you earn, up to a certain limit.
Source and review
This guide has a recorded editorial review date. Requirements, fees, forms, and timelines can change. Use this guide as preparation support, then verify final details with the official source before submitting anything.