Social Security

Illness

From 1 January 2004, your employer is in principle obliged, when you are ill for a long period, to pay you wages for a maximum of two years. However, you and your employer must do your utmost to get you back to work as soon as possible. Otherwise, sanctions will follow.

An application for invalidity benefit should be filed at the end of the second year, rather than the first year, of illness. The government thinks this is crucial to encourage your return to work. In certain cases, an evaluation test can take place before the end of the two-year period of illness. This only concerns people who are no longer capable of working and where it is entirely clear that there is no likelihood of recovery.

Or you can contact the Public Information Department of the Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment, Tel: 0800-9051.

Source: European Union
© European Communities, 1995-2006
Reproduction is authorised.