Application for Extension of Maternity Leave

Last updated: February 6, 2026 Type: Affidavit Format Type: Application Fill the Affidavit

Disclaimer:

This is a sample format for general understanding and should be modified as per the department's service rules and individual circumstances.

**Sample PDF of the Application is attached at the end.

Purpose

This application is submitted by a woman employee who, after availing maternity leave, needs additional time to recover from medical complications or to continue caring for her new born. It requests the competent authority to extend the maternity leave period beyond what was initially sanctioned.

Where to Submit

To the Head of Office / Competent Authority in the employee's department.
Usually routed through the immediate superior or administrative officer.
In Central or State Government offices, it is processed by the Personnel/HR or Establishment Section.
Employees in the public sector or autonomous bodies must submit it to the Appointing Authority or HR Head.

Important Points

Submit before expiry of the current sanctioned maternity leave.
Attach a medical certificate from a registered medical practitioner mentioning the necessity of extended rest.
Mention the exact number of extra days/weeks requested.
Check if the department permits half-pay leave or extraordinary leave after the statutory maternity leave period.
Ensure all previous leave records are updated in the service book.
Retain a copy of the submission and acknowledgement.

FAQs on Maternity Leave Extension

1. Can maternity leave be extended beyond 26 weeks?: Yes. If medically required, it can be extended using other available leave, such as earned leave, half-pay leave, or extraordinary leave, subject to approval.
2. Is a medical certificate mandatory for extension?: Yes, a valid medical certificate must be attached.
3. How early should the extension request be made?: Ideally 7–10 days before the expiry of the current leave period.
4. Who approves the extension?: The competent or appointing authority specified in departmental leave rules.
5. Can the extension be refused?: Yes, if not supported by valid medical grounds or if departmental exigencies do not permit.
6. Is the extended period fully paid?: Only the original 26 weeks (or as per the applicable rule) are paid maternity leave. Any additional leave may be treated as half-pay or unpaid, depending on policy.
7. Can government employees combine maternity leave with other leave?: Yes, if the rules allow. Common combinations include earned leave or child care leave.
8. What if the employee resumes duty late without approval?: It may be treated as unauthorised absence, affecting service continuity and pay.
9. Can this application be sent by email?: Yes, but a signed hard copy with documents must also be submitted to the HR or establishment section.
10. Is there a fixed format for the application?: No. The given sample format is a professional template for reference and adaptation.

Downloads & Resources

sample-application-for-extension-of-maternity-leave (342.92 KB)

Legal Affidavit Document

To
The ___,
___,
___

Date: ___

Subject: Application for Extension of Maternity Leave

Respected Sir/Madam,

I, ___, working as ___ in ___, was granted maternity leave from ___ to ___ as per the sanction order dated ___.

Due to ___, I am unable to resume duties immediately upon completion of the sanctioned leave. Therefore, I respectfully request an extension of maternity leave for a further period of ___, i.e., from ___ to ___, under the applicable provisions and service rules.

I am enclosing the medical certificate issued by a registered medical practitioner in support of this request. Kindly grant approval for the extension of maternity leave and oblige.

Thanking you,

Yours faithfully,

(Signature)

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___
___
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___

Enclosures:

Copy of previous maternity leave sanction order – ___
Medical certificate / doctor's recommendation – ___
Relevant supporting documents – ___