New Study Ranks Global Statutory Paternity Pay Levels
Parents can compare how international leave policies affect family financial planning for a new child.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Child Care
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A June 2026 study by Moorepay highlights global disparities in statutory paternity leave, ranking Luxembourg among the top nations for pay value. The research, which models paternity benefits for two-earner households, emphasizes that 51 countries currently offer no statutory paid leave to fathers.
Why it matters
Understanding global paternity leave standards provides context for how different national policies support parental transition and family well-being. These rankings help illustrate the significant financial and time-based differences families experience depending on their country of residence.
This Moorepay study uses World Bank average income figures and a model of a firstborn child in a dual-earner household to compare international paternity benefits. While South Korea leads in total pay value, it remains unknown how private, employer-funded leave policies may alter these relative national standings.
The players
Moorepay
A payroll and HR software company that produces reports on international labor and benefits policies.
World Bank
An international financial institution that provides data on global income per capita used in economic modeling.
The details
The study calculates pay values by analyzing statutory requirements alongside average income per capita. Luxembourg provides 18.6 weeks of paid leave, ranking second in absolute pay terms at $23,266 USD. By adjusting for local purchasing power, the value is calculated at Intl$23,324, placing the country sixth globally.
Timeline
June 2026: Research data was confirmed.
Health Landscape
Global parental leave policies vary widely, with many countries lacking mandated support for fathers. This analysis sits against the backdrop of international economic benchmarks, reflecting how different governments prioritize the inclusion of fathers in early child care.
Parents planning for a new child should investigate their specific local statutory rights and any additional employer-provided benefits, as these vary significantly by region. Families may find it helpful to consult with a human resources professional to understand how their specific leave options impact their household financial planning.
The takeaway
Paternity leave policies differ vastly across the globe, with financial support for fathers ranging from extensive to non-existent. When preparing for a new child, families should confirm their specific local leave entitlements and employer policies to ensure they can manage the financial transition effectively.
Further reading
For more information on balancing career and family, explore our guide to Child Care.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Chronicle.
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Should governments mandate paid paternity leave for all working fathers?
