Paternity Leave: Changes from April 2026

Key Changes Effective From 6 April 2026

Major changes to parental and paternity leave laws are coming into force in the UK and they’re designed to give families more flexibility and support right from day one.

• Day‑One Rights for Paternity Leave

No more waiting 26 weeks before becoming eligible. From 6 April, all eligible employees can take paternity leave from their very first day of work. Even though paternity leave becomes a day‑one right from 6 April 2026, Statutory Paternity Pay (SPP) does NOT become a day‑one right. The payment rules stay the same – Have 26 weeks of continuous service by the qualifying week (15th week before the due date) Meet minimum earnings of £129 per week.

• More Flexible Leave Options

Employees can now take paternity leave even after a period of Shared Parental Leave — a restriction that previously blocked access.

• Unpaid Parental Leave Also Becomes a Day‑One Right

Parents will now be able to take up to 18 weeks of unpaid parental leave per child without needing a full year of service first.