The Germany is offering generous 12+2 months paid leave. The only problem is that during that time the parental money (Elterngeld) is limited up to 1800€. It’s like one third of the former salary, so that’s perfect hidden barrier and I seriously hate this. I am jealous about hearing friends and relatives being offered 1-3 months fully paid leave by their American employers. Having mortgage and baby a parental leave is impossible and couple paid months at home with family would be super cool.