SingaporeI was dismissed while on maternity leave. Is this legal?
No, it is illegal to dismiss an employee while she is on maternity leave in Singapore under the Employment Act.
What the Law Says
The Employment Act explicitly prohibits dismissal of a female employee during her maternity leave, unless specific statutory exceptions apply.
Under Singapore law, employers are strictly prohibited from terminating the employment of a woman during her maternity leave period. This protection applies regardless of whether the employee is on paid or unpaid maternity leave, as long as she qualifies under the Employment Act.
The law also requires that any dismissal notice given before maternity leave must be deferred — meaning the termination cannot take effect until after the maternity leave ends, unless the employee consents in writing.
This safeguard ensures job security for new mothers and supports Singapore’s broader policy goals of encouraging family formation and gender equity at work.
Statutory TextAn employer shall not terminate the contract of service of a female employee during her maternity leave.
— Employment Act 1968, s. 81 — Protection of female employees on maternity leave
What to Do
Contact the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) immediately via their Advisory & Assistance hotline or online feedback form.
Gather evidence: employment contract, maternity leave approval letter, dismissal notice, and pay slips.
File a formal complaint with MOM — they can investigate and mediate or refer the matter to the Employment Claims Tribunal if needed.
Do not sign any settlement agreement without reviewing it carefully or seeking legal advice.
Sources
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JapanNot 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: 2026-06-08.