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New Sick Leave Legislation Proposed by German Coalition
The German coalition government consisting of the CDU/CSU and SPD plans to tighten regulations on sick leave to reduce the high sickness absence rates in the country. Under the proposed reform, employees would be required to provide a medical certificate (Arbeitsunfähigkeitsbescheinigung) from their doctors from the very first day of illness, replacing the current rule which allows up to three calendar days without a certificate. Additionally, telephone sick notes would be discontinued, requiring physical doctor visits instead. These measures aim to strengthen the economy by lowering employee absenteeism [Source 1].
Details and Rationale Behind Stricter Sick Leave Rules
Previously, employees could inform their employer about sickness and then present a medical certificate only on the fourth day of absence. Employers could ask for an earlier certificate but it was not mandatory nationwide. With the new regulation, the coalition intends to return to pre-pandemic rules and prevent cases where employees “sit on the bed edge and wonder if they should go to work” — a phrase used by Union faction leader Jens Spahn to describe borderline absences. The government argues that the current high number of sick days, which they describe as “exorbitant” following the COVID-19 crisis, is harming productivity and the economy [Source 1][Source 4].
Implications for Expats, International Students, and Foreign Workers
For expats and foreign workers in Germany, these changes mean a stricter obligation to visit a doctor and obtain a valid sick note from day one of illness. This may increase the logistical and financial burden for employees who are unwell, as they must now account for doctor’s appointments immediately rather than monitoring symptoms at home for a few days. International students and employees on short-term contracts should be aware of these deadlines to avoid complications with employers or loss of income due to unapproved absences. Those affected should check their health insurance coverage to ensure that doctor visits are accessible and affordable, as well as familiarize themselves with workplace rights and employer policies regarding sick leave [Source 1][Source 4].
Ongoing Debates and Implementation Outlook
The proposal has met with skepticism among medical professionals, health insurers, and even within parts of the SPD, questioning the actual benefits in reducing absenteeism. The precise implementation details, including exceptions and practical application, remain open and are expected to be finalized as part of broader reform packages planned before the summer parliamentary session. Political leaders including Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil have defended the reform’s goals but acknowledge continued debate on related health and labor reforms [Source 1][Source 3][Source 7].
Expats should keep track of evolving legislation and any guidance issued by health authorities and their employers to remain compliant and safeguard their employment rights. The full details and final regulations will likely be accessible through official government resources upon enactment.
For more details, visit the original German article: tagesschau.de – Krankschreibungen: Was die Koalition plant und was noch offen ist.
