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To qualify for Maternity Benefit as an employee you must:

• be in insurable employment that is covered by the Maternity Protection Act, 1994 immediately before the first day of maternity leave. The last day of insurable employment must be within 16 weeks of the end of the week your baby is due. If you cease employment your maternity leave must start from the following day,
  and
• satisfy certain PRSI contribution conditions.

To qualify for Maternity Benefit as a self-employed person you must:

• be in insurable self-employment,
  and
• satisfy certain PRSI contribution conditions.

Note
Non-EEA claimants should submit verified documentation (e.g. copy of GNIB Card / Work Permit)(see below) that confirms that they are authorised to work in the State.
To have verified, please bring to any office of the Department of Social Protection or Garda Station. Please note only verified copies are acceptable.