The short answer
VAB lets a parent stay away from work to care for a sick child and apply for temporary parental benefit from Försäkringskassan. Notify the employer promptly, state the share of the day not worked and submit an accurate claim. Hours actually worked cannot also be claimed as VAB.
Notify first, apply separately
Tell the employer as soon as possible under its absence procedure. Apply separately to Försäkringskassan for benefit.
A claim can cover a full day or an allowed fraction matching the time not worked.
Employment supplements may also depend on the collective agreement.
| In Swedish | What it means | When you use it |
|---|---|---|
| Jag behöver vabba i dag. | I need to take VAB today. | |
| Mitt barn är sjukt. | My child is ill. |
Report exact time
Do not claim for hours spent working, including remote work.
Keep schedules and relevant messages. Försäkringskassan announced extra controls in 2026.
For a return or new role, also prepare your salary expectations.
VAB during annual leave
If a child becomes ill during holiday, contact the employer and interrupt annual leave for the relevant period first.
Illness does not automatically convert a holiday day into VAB.
The Health and Work course practises symptoms, times and short messages.
Coordinate carers
Record who cares for the child and during which hours to avoid incompatible claims.
If another person takes over, check eligibility before applying.
Answer requests for more information with dates, hours and requested documents rather than estimates.
Sources
Rules and processing times change. Check the official page for your own case before acting on anything here.
Questions people ask
- Does the employer pay VAB?
- Temporary parental benefit is claimed from Försäkringskassan, while the absence is also reported to the employer.
- Can I work remotely and claim full VAB?
- No. Claim only the time you genuinely did not work.
- What if it happens during holiday?
- Contact the employer and interrupt annual leave for the relevant period first.
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