Getting ready for maternity leave can feel like a lot.
You’re juggling your own day-to-day, trying to understand the rules, and wondering if you’re doing everything at the right time. It’s normal to feel unsure... most parents do. The forms, the conversations with your employer, the timing, the government steps… it adds up, and it’s hard to know where to begin.
You don’t have to figure this out alone.
You deserve a guide that breaks everything down calmly and clearly, so you can move forward without second-guessing yourself.
That’s what this overview will do. Walk you through what to prepare, who to talk to, and how the application process works in Canada. One step at a time, we’ll help you feel grounded, informed, and ready for what comes next.
The Short Version (For When You’re Overwhelmed)
If this whole process feels like a lot, we get it. Most parents start here, unsure about the timing, the forms, and what’s expected of them. There’s nothing wrong with not knowing where to begin.
Here’s what actually matters right now:
You’ll talk to your employer about your plans
Gather a few details
Apply for maternity benefits through the Government of Canada.
You don’t need every decision made today. You don’t need the whole plan mapped out. You just need a place to start.
Don’t stress, you’re not behind.
If you want more guidance, the rest of this guide walks through each step a bit more in-depth.
How to Apply for Maternity Leave in Canada (Step-by-Step)
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Your maternity leave application in Canada comes together one step at a time.
Here’s a clear path to follow:
Step 1: Talk to your employer about your planned leave dates
Before you apply for maternity leave, start with a simple conversation.
Share the dates you’re considering and ask what information they may need from you. This creates clarity for both sides and sets the foundation for your Canada maternity leave application.
Step 2: Gather what you’ll need for your application
You don’t need a long checklist, just a few key details to make things easier later.
Think about:
When you plan to stop working
Any information your employer provides
Basic employment and personal details that may be required
If you're wondering, “what do I need to apply for maternity leave?” this is the part to focus on.
Step 3: Apply for maternity benefits through EI
This is where you officially apply for maternity benefits (often called EI maternity leave). The application is completed online through the Government of Canada.
You can apply right here:
Follow the prompts at your own pace. You can always pause and return if you need more time.
Step 4: Watch for updates after you apply
Once your application is submitted, you’ll receive updates directly from the Government of Canada. It’s normal to have questions or to wonder if you’ve done everything correctly, this stage often feels slow, even when everything is moving as it should.
Step 5: Start your leave when your date arrives
When your leave date comes, you begin your time away from work. Whether you’re transitioning into parental leave later or returning after maternity leave, this step marks the beginning of a new chapter.
Common Questions Parents Have About Applying for Maternity Leave
It’s completely normal to have questions at this stage.
Most parents feel unsure about at least one part of the process, usually the timing, the paperwork, or what happens after they apply.
Here are some of the questions we hear most often, answered in the simplest way we can:
“When can I apply for maternity leave?”
Many parents worry they’re applying too early or too late. The truth is: you don’t need perfect timing to get started. Begin by talking to your employer and gathering what you need. When you feel ready, you can move into your maternity leave application at your own pace.
“What do I need to apply for maternity leave?”
You only need a few basic details, usually your planned leave date, your employer conversation, and some personal/employment information. You don’t need to have your whole leave plan mapped out before you apply.
“Do I apply for parental leave at the same time?”
Some parents apply only for maternity benefits first, then decide on parental leave later. Others plan everything together. Either option can work. You don’t have to commit to every decision all at once.
“What if I’m not sure about my dates yet?”
Many parents adjust their dates later on. It’s okay if things change. Start with the best estimate you have, clarity grows as you move through the process.
“What if I make a mistake in my application?”
You’re not expected to get everything perfect on the first try. This is a big life moment, and uncertainty is part of it. If something needs adjusting later, you can update or clarify when you receive information from the Government of Canada.
“How does maternity leave work if I’m a contract or freelance worker?”
The steps are generally the same, but the details depend on your work setup and whether you’re eligible to apply through EI. If you're self-employed, you can explore the EI information for self-employed parents here:
(This isn’t something you need to figure out alone, the important part is knowing you have options.)
What Happens After You Apply for Maternity Leave
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This stage often feels unclear for parents, not because you’ve done anything wrong, but because the in-between time can be quiet.
Here’s what you can generally expect after you’ve submitted your maternity leave application online.
You’ll receive updates directly from the Government of Canada
Once you apply for maternity benefits, updates and next steps will come from official government channels. This may include confirmations or requests for additional information.
Your employer may share their own documents or confirmations
Depending on your workplace, you may receive forms or messages related to your planned leave dates. Each employer handles this differently, so there’s no “standard” experience.
You begin preparing for your leave date
This is when many parents start tying up loose ends at work, organizing childcare or personal tasks, or simply taking a breath as the date approaches. It’s normal for emotions to shift here: excitement, stress, relief, uncertainty. All of it is valid.
You start your leave when the date arrives
Your official leave begins on the date you’ve chosen. Some parents take maternity leave first and parental leave later; others structure things differently. There’s no right or wrong here, only what works for you and your family.
You can revisit your plan if life changes
Plans change. Babies arrive early or late. Your needs might shift. Your partner’s schedule might shift. Leave plans are meant to support your family, not trap you in a rigid timeline.
You’re allowed to adjust as you go.
Remember: If any part of this feels confusing, you're not alone. Most parents move through this process one small step at a time, and clarity builds as you move forward. You’re doing enough, and you’re doing it right.
Moving Ahead With Confidence
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It’s okay if this process feels heavy. Most parents reach a point where the information, the forms, and the timing all start to blend together. You may feel like you’re missing something, or that everyone else understands this better than you do.
They don’t.
Almost everyone moves through their maternity leave application with some level of uncertainty.
Here’s what matters:
You don’t have to get everything right on the first try.
You don’t need your entire leave mapped out before you begin.
You don’t have to pretend you’re calm if you’re not.
And you absolutely don’t have to do this alone.
Start with one thing you feel ready for: a conversation with your employer, gathering a single detail, or simply opening the application page. Each small step builds clarity. The rest can unfold at a pace that works for you.
You’re doing more than enough. And you’re doing it right.
