Becoming a parent is life-changing — exciting, overwhelming, and sometimes exhausting.
If you’re a father in Ontario, you might be wondering:
Do I get paternity leave?
Is it paid?
How long can I take off work?
How do I apply?
Let’s break it down in plain language so you know exactly what to expect.
What is Paternity Leave in Ontario?
In Ontario, there’s no separate law that says “paternity leave” — instead, new fathers can take parental leave under the Employment Standards Act (ESA).
Parental leave is available to:
Birth fathers
Adoptive parents (mothers or fathers)
Any parent of a newborn or newly adopted child
So when we say “paternity leave,” we’re really talking about a father’s right to parental leave.
How Long is Paternity Leave in Ontario?
If you’re a father, you can take up to 61 weeks of unpaid parental leave.
Here’s the timeline:
You must start your leave within 78 weeks of your child being born or placed with you for adoption.
You don’t have to take the full 61 weeks — you can take less if you prefer.
Do Fathers Get Paid for Paternity Leave in Ontario?
Under Ontario’s ESA, parental leave is unpaid. That means your employer is not legally required to pay you while you’re off.
But there’s good news:
You may qualify for Employment Insurance (EI) parental benefits through the federal government.
As of now, EI offers:
Standard parental benefits: Up to 40 weeks shared between parents (max 35 weeks per parent) at 55% of your average weekly earnings, up to a cap.
Extended parental benefits: Up to 69 weeks shared (max 61 weeks per parent) at 33% of your average weekly earnings, up to a cap.
Some employers also offer top-up benefits to increase your pay during leave — check your contract or policy.
How Does Paternity Leave Work in Ontario?
Here’s the step-by-step process:
Give your employer notice — at least 2 weeks before you plan to start leave.
Decide your start date — you can begin any time within the 78-week window.
Apply for EI parental benefits — you can do this online through Service Canada after your leave starts.
Provide any required documents — your employer may ask for proof of birth or adoption.
How to Apply for Paternity Leave in Ontario
It’s a two-part process:
Step 1 — Tell your employer
Send a written notice (email works) with your intended start date and how long you plan to be off.
If plans change, update them as soon as possible.
Step 2 — Apply for EI parental benefits
Go to the Service Canada website.
Complete the application and submit your Record of Employment (ROE), which your employer provides.
Apply as soon as your leave starts to avoid payment delays.
Paternity Leave vs. Maternity Leave
Maternity leave is for birth mothers only — it’s up to 17 weeks and can be taken before and after birth.
Paternity leave (or parental leave for fathers) is separate and can be taken after the child’s birth or adoption.
Both can be combined if both parents are eligible and want time off.
Final Tips for Fathers Taking Leave
Plan ahead financially — EI benefits are less than your regular pay.
Check your workplace policy — you might get top-up benefits.
Stay in touch — communicate with your employer about your return date.
Don’t worry about your job — the ESA protects your right to return to your position (or a comparable one) after leave.
Bottom Line:
Fathers in Ontario don’t have a separate “paternity leave,” but they are entitled to unpaid parental leave of up to 61 weeks — with possible EI benefits and job protection.
If you’re unsure about your rights or your employer’s obligations, it’s worth getting legal advice before your leave starts.
