Introduction:
Working parents value time above all else. Childcare leave in Singapore lets you be there for your kid when it counts — at school events, doctor visits, or just hanging out at home.
Knowing your childcare leave rights helps you plan better, cuts job stress, and keeps work and family in check.
Singapore’s childcare leave gives working parents paid time off to look after their kids under MOM’s Employment Act.
What Is Childcare Leave in Singapore?
Childcare leave is a legal right that lets working parents handle family needs while keeping their jobs safe.
According to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), parents who qualify can take paid time off to look after their kids — this shows Singapore’s dedication to workplaces that support families.
Why Childcare Leave Exists
Childcare leave aims to give parents room to help their children — when they’re young and in school. Parents can use it when:
- Kids get sick or need to see a doctor.
- They have to go to school events or handle family stuff.
- They want to build stronger emotional ties with their kids.
In other words, it helps both family health and work output.
Who Can Take Childcare Leave?
Not every parent gets the same benefits — your child’s citizenship and your job status determine if you qualify.
Main Requirements to Qualify:
- You need to have a legal job and have worked for your employer for at least 3 months without a break.
- Your child must be younger than 7 (for full childcare leave) or between 7 and 12 (for extended childcare leave).
- Each parent can claim benefits — both working parents can apply if they meet the rules.
To get childcare leave, parents must have a job for at least 3 months and have a child who is a Singapore citizen under 12.
Childcare Leave Benefits (2025 Overview)
Your kid’s age and citizenship status affect your yearly childcare leave allowance.
| Child’s Age | Child’s Citizenship | Leave Type | Entitlement (per year) | Paid By |
| Below 7 years old | Singapore Citizen | Government-Paid Childcare Leave (GPCL) | 6 days | Government |
| 7–12 years old | Singapore Citizen | Extended Childcare Leave (ECL) | 2 days | Employer |
| Below 7 years old | Non-Citizen / PR | Employer-Paid Childcare Leave | 2 days | Employer |
Singapore citizen kids under 7 give parents 6 days of government-funded childcare leave.
Singapore’s Childcare Leave Options
1. Government-Paid Childcare Leave (GPCL)
- Parents get 6 days yearly for each Singapore citizen child under 7.
- Parents must work for at least 3 months straight to qualify.
- The government covers all costs, which helps employers save money.
2. Extended Childcare Leave (ECL)
- Parents receive 2 days for each Singapore citizen child aged 7–12.
- This shows that parents still need to be involved as kids go through school (like during tests or when meeting teachers).
3. Employer-Paid Childcare Leave (Non-GPCL)
- 2 days per year if your kid under 7 isn’t a Singapore citizen.
- Supports all families — PRs and foreigners included — to balance work and family care.
How to Use Your Childcare Leave Smartly
Knowing your rights is just one piece of the puzzle. Using them well makes sure you get the most out of every day off.
Handy Tips:
- Plan ahead: Circle school breaks and big family events on your calendar .
- Talk to your employer: Bring up your time-off plans soon to keep work running .
- Get tech-savvy: Try a Leave Management Software to check your days off ask for time away online, and stick to HR rules.
How Info-Tech’s Leave Management Software Helps Working Parents
Keeping HR stuff in order while following MOM rules can get tricky. Info-Tech’s Leave Management Software makes it easier for employers and employers alike:
- Automated Eligibility Checks — keeps track of age and citizenship criteria.
- Integrated Leave Tracking — works with Info-Tech’s HRMS and payroll systems.
- Mobile Applications — let you apply, approve, and review leave at any time.
- MOM Compliance Assurance — ensures policies stay in line with government updates.
Automation allows HR teams to spend less time on paperwork, and parents can plan their leave without stress.
Conclusion:
Childcare leave in Singapore means more than just a policy — it represents an investment to strengthen families and create healthier workplaces.
No matter if you have 6 days or 2, each day you spend with your kid counts. Know your leave rights, make a good plan, and use your time off.
Info-Tech’s Leave Management Software Helps You Handle Childcare Leaves, & Following All Rules.
Get a grip on your work-life mix — Ask for a Demo now.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How much childcare leave can parents get in Singapore?
Parents of Singapore citizen kids under 7 have 6 days of Government-Paid Childcare Leave each year. Those with kids aged 7–12 have 2 days.
Who qualifies for childcare leave in Singapore?
Employees qualify if they have worked for at least 3 months and have a Singapore citizen child under 12 years old.
Do PRs or foreigners get childcare leave?
Yes. They get 2 days per year if their child is under 7 and they meet other job requirements.
Can both parents take childcare leave?
Yes. Each parent has their own entitlement so both working parents can take childcare leave if they meet the criteria.
How can HR teams manage childcare leave?
They can use digital tools like Info-Tech’s Leave Management Software. This software makes it easier to handle eligibility, applications, and follow MOM rules.
