8 Countries With Menstrual Leave Provisions

Zambia

Zambia has been at the forefront since 2015, providing female employees with one day of menstrual leave each month. Importantly, this leave can be taken without prior notice or the submission of a doctors note.

Taiwan

In 2013, Taiwan implemented legislation granting female workers three days of paid menstrual leave annually. These additional leaves are offered on top of the regular 30 days of sick leave, with 50% of the salary paid during menstrual leave, mirroring sick leave compensation.

South Korea

South Korea introduced menstrual leave in 2001, allowing female employees one day of unpaid leave per month. Non-compliance can result in fines up to 5 million won ($3,844).

Philippines

The Philippines enacted the Menstrual Leave Law in 2019, offering female employees two days of paid menstrual leave each month.

Spain

Spain, a pioneer in Europe, provides paid leave for period pain. The law, lacking a specified timeframe for leaves, requires a doctors note and aims to eliminate the practice of women concealing menstrual pain at work.

Indonesia

Since 2003, Indonesia has granted women the right to two days of paid menstrual leave monthly. However, implementation varies, with employers exercising discretion, sometimes providing only one day or none at all.

Japan

Japan, with a menstrual leave law dating back to 1947, allows women to request leave for as long as needed. While salary payment during this period is not compulsory, approximately 30% of companies, according to a 2020 survey, offer full or partial pay.

Vietnam

In Vietnam, female employees are entitled to a monthly menstrual leave of three days, accompanied by a 30-minute break each day during their menstrual cycle. Women choosing not to take menstrual leave receive additional compensation.