Can I be dismissed during pregnancy?
How the answer differs across 8 jurisdictions
GermanyFull article No — German law prohibits dismissal from the start of pregnancy until at least four months after childbirth, provided the employer knows or is notified of the pregnancy or birth within two weeks of termination.
AustraliaFull article It is unlawful to dismiss you because of your pregnancy or potential pregnancy under Australian anti-discrimination and workplace laws. You may have grounds for an unfair dismissal claim or discrimination complaint.
IrelandFull article No, you cannot be fairly dismissed for pregnancy-related absence in Ireland — it is automatically unfair dismissal under the Unfair Dismissals Act 1977.
SingaporeFull article No, it is illegal to dismiss an employee while she is on maternity leave in Singapore under the Employment Act.
European UnionFull article Yes, being passed over for promotion because you're pregnant is unlawful sex discrimination under EU law.
Yes, it is unlawful for your employer to treat you unfavourably because of pregnancy or maternity under the Equality Act 2010.
IndiaFull article Yes, dismissal during pregnancy is illegal in India under the Maternity Benefit Act, 1961, which prohibits termination of employment during maternity leave or due to pregnancy.
JapanFull article Yes, firing someone because of pregnancy is illegal in Japan under the Equal Employment Opportunity Law and the Labor Standards Act.
Read Full Articles
GermanyCan I be fired during pregnancy?AustraliaI was made redundant but I think the real reason was my pregnancy. What protections exist?IrelandCan I be dismissed for pregnancy-related absence?SingaporeI was dismissed while on maternity leave. Is this legal?European UnionI was passed over for promotion because I'm pregnant. Is this sex discrimination?
UKI'm pregnant and my employer is treating me unfavourably. Is this unlawful?IndiaI was dismissed during a pregnancy. Is this protected?JapanI was fired because of pregnancy. Is this illegal?Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: June 2026.