China continues to expand marriage leave as it works to build a more newlywed-friendly society. Currently, at least 27 provinces have announced extended paid leave for newlyweds. Meanwhile, officials say the shift aims to promote family life amid falling marriage rates. Moreover, many also hope it will help stabilize the nation’s birth rate. Therefore, provincial leaders believe time off can ease pressure on couples.
In Sichuan, authorities proposed increasing marriage leave from 3 to 20 days. Additionally, couples who undergo a premarital medical check could receive 5 extra days. Notably, this plan remains open for public input throughout June. Furthermore, residents and experts have welcomed the policy’s family-first approach. As a result, they see it as a crucial step toward a newlywed-friendly society.
For instance, Wang Mengdi, who works in human resources, praised the change. Previously, she said three days barely allowed time for the wedding itself. However, now couples can return home and enjoy a proper honeymoon. In this way, the change supports traditional customs and modern needs. Consequently, it signals growing attention to creating a newlywed-friendly society.
Similarly, other provinces are adopting comparable reforms. For example, Shandong extended leave to 18 days through legislation in January. Meanwhile, Shanxi and Gansu went further, granting 30 days of paid leave. Officials argue these policies respond to shifting demographics. Furthermore, fewer young adults and rising urban migration make weddings harder to arrange.
Experts also link the drop in marriage rates to social and economic change. For example, Li Ting from Renmin University points to rising individualism. Moreover, many delay marriage until they plan to start families. In addition, Jiang Quanbao notes declining birth numbers since 2000 have reduced potential marriages. Thus, both see longer leave as helpful but not a complete fix.
In response, authorities also simplified marriage registration to make things easier. Now, couples can register without showing household records. Notably, this new system began in May. In tandem, officials expanded maternity and paternity leave. Altogether, all of these measures align with the newlywed-friendly society goal.
Nevertheless, some fear businesses may struggle to offer these benefits. In particular, costs remain a concern, especially for smaller employers. To address this, population experts suggest government help with funding. Accordingly, Zhai Zhenwu urged local budgets to cover some leave expenses. Encouragingly, Sichuan’s draft policy already reflects this approach.
Therefore, the policy advises county-level governments to create funding mechanisms. In doing so, these would ensure marriage and parental leave actually happen. Additionally, officials stress the importance of turning policy into practice. Otherwise, without support, these benefits may go unused. Ultimately, a truly newlywed-friendly society requires follow-through at every level.
