Virginia Paternity Leave
2026 Guide to Leave Benefits for Fathers
Your Options as a Father in Virginia
Virginia does not have a state-level paid family leave program. However, you still have options for paternity leave:
FMLA for Fathers in Virginia
The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) provides fathers with 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected bonding leave. FMLA is gender-neutral - fathers have the same entitlement as mothers for bonding with a new child.
Eligibility requirements:
- Your employer has 50 or more employees within 75 miles
- You've worked for your employer for at least 12 months
- You've worked at least 1,250 hours in the past 12 months
FMLA guarantees your job (or an equivalent position) when you return, and your employer must maintain your health insurance during leave. Note that fathers receive FMLA for bonding only - the medical recovery component of FMLA applies only to birth mothers.
Proposed Legislation
Virginia's Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance Program (SB 2 / HB 1207) passed both chambers in February 2026 and is expected to be signed by the governor. The bill provides 12 weeks at 80% wage replacement (capped at ~$1,507/week), with contributions starting July 2028 and benefits starting January 2029.
Nearby States with Paid Leave
While Virginia doesn't have paid family leave, these nearby states do. If you work remotely for an employer in one of these states, you may be covered by their program.
Paternity Leave Facts
Plan Your Virginia Paternity Leave
Build a personalized leave timeline with income estimates based on your state benefits, FMLA, and PTO.
Calculate My Leave Plan →Explore Other States
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Benefit amounts and eligibility requirements change periodically. Always verify current details with your state's official program and your employer's HR department.