Photo by Lewis Keegan on Unsplash
New Sick Leave Rules Enacted in Germany
The German federal government coalition of CDU, CSU, and SPD has agreed on a sweeping reform package affecting several aspects of employment and taxation, including significant changes to sick leave procedures. From now on, employees must present a medical certificate of incapacity for work (Arbeitsunfähigkeitsbescheinigung, AU) starting on the first day of illness. The previously allowed phone-based sick notes will be completely abolished under this reform, requiring in-person doctor visits for certification from day one of absence [Source 1].
This measure aims to address and reduce Germany’s comparatively high rate of sick leave by increasing oversight and documentation among employees [Source 1]. The requirement for immediate submission of a medical certificate is a direct response to concerns raised by employers and echoed by the Bundesvereinigung der Arbeitgeberverbände (BDA), whose president Rainer Dulger endorsed the elimination of telephone sick notes as an appropriate step [Source 1].
Impact on Expats, Foreign Workers, and International Students
For expats, international students, and foreign workers in Germany, these new sick leave regulations have practical implications regarding workplace absence protocols. Every employee now must visit a medical professional in-person on the first day of illness to obtain the required AU certificate. This change replaces the more convenient telephone certification process, potentially increasing the burden of seeking medical care during early stages of sickness.
Given that early communication between employee and employer about illness might no longer suffice, expats should be prepared to understand and adhere strictly to these documentation rules to avoid complications with employers or health insurance. It is advisable for foreign residents to locate accessible general practitioners (Hausärzte) nearby and understand the local procedures for obtaining medical certificates promptly.
Employers will expect documentation from the first day of absence, so international employees must ensure they have valid proof to justify missed workdays. Delays or failure to present an AU could result in issues with wage compensation or even disciplinary measures, depending on individual employment contracts. Awareness and timely action regarding the revised sick leave rules are thus critical for foreigners living and working in Germany [Source 2].
Reactions and Broader Government Reform Context
The reform package is not limited to sick leave but also includes tax relief measures targeted at lower and middle incomes, a restructured income tax progression curve, and a reformed social security framework. Notably, families with children could benefit from increased child benefits and tax exemptions, envisaged to reduce their tax burden by up to 600 euros annually in some cases [Source 3] [Source 7].
The decisions to enforce stricter sick leave documentation have sparked debate. Critics argue that the ruling coalition’s new sick note policies may increase workload for healthcare providers and administrative costs for health insurers and employers, while failing to ease the burden on sick employees [Source 4]. The government, however, suggests these reforms contribute to strengthening the welfare system and addressing labor market challenges amid economic pressures [Source 6].
This reform represents a notable shift in German employment law and health policy, underscoring the government’s emphasis on accountability and flexibility in the workforce. It is part of the broader “Program for Recovery and Employment” initiative aimed at revitalizing Germany’s economy and social systems [Source 1].
For more detailed information on these reforms and their anticipated implementation timeline, readers can consult the primary source article: Schwarz-rote Reformen: Das soll sich bei der Krankschreibung ändern [Source 1].
