Woke up feeling unwell? In Germany, calling in sick is a well-regulated process — but if you are new to the country, the rules around sick leave, medical certificates, and wage continuation can be confusing. Here is everything you need to know to handle it correctly from day one.
The AU Certificate and the New Electronic System (eAU)
When you are too ill to work in Germany, you need an official medical certificate of incapacity — known as the Arbeitsunfähigkeitsbescheinigung, or AU. This document proves to your employer and health insurer that you are genuinely unfit to work. Without it, your employer can refuse to continue paying your salary, and you are left unprotected.
Since January 2023, Germany has moved to an electronic system called the eAU (elektronische Arbeitsunfähigkeitsbescheinigung). Your doctor now transmits the certificate directly to your statutory health insurer (Krankenkasse) and to your employer electronically. In theory, you no longer need to hand over a paper 'yellow slip' (Gelber Schein) yourself — but always confirm with your employer, as some still request their own copy or have internal reporting systems.
What to Do Step by Step When You Are Sick
Step 1 — Notify your employer immediately. On the very first day of illness (ideally in the morning before your shift), inform your line manager or HR department by phone, email, or message. Do not wait until you visit the doctor. Most German employment contracts require this notification on day one.
Step 2 — Visit a doctor. German contracts vary: many require a medical certificate from day one, while the legal default is day four. Check your employment contract carefully — it will specify when the AU is required. If in doubt, go to the doctor on the first day anyway. You can also call your GP for a telephone AU for simple conditions like a cold, or use a telehealth app such as Teleclinic — though check whether your employer accepts these.
Step 3 — Stay home and recover. You are not obligated to perform any work duties while signed off sick. If your illness continues beyond the original certificate period, you must visit the doctor again before the certificate expires to get an extension.
Lohnfortzahlung and Krankengeld: Who Pays While You Are Off?
Germany has a two-tier system for sick pay. For the first six weeks of a continuous illness, your employer is legally required to continue paying your full gross salary — this is called Lohnfortzahlung (continued wage payment). It applies regardless of whether you are employed full-time, part-time, or in a Minijob (for Minijobbers it is paid proportionally).
From week seven onwards, your statutory health insurance takes over with Krankengeld (sickness benefit). This is approximately 70% of your gross salary, capped at 90% of your net salary. The maximum daily Krankengeld rate is set by law and adjusted annually. Krankengeld can be paid for up to 78 weeks for the same illness within three years — a significant safety net.
If you are privately insured (PKV), the rules differ slightly and depend on your individual policy. Private insurance typically includes Krankentagegeld (daily sickness allowance) that kicks in after a set waiting period defined in your contract.
Common Questions About Sick Leave in Germany
Can I travel abroad while on sick leave? In principle, yes — if the trip does not delay your recovery and your doctor approves. You must always be reachable. Going on holiday while signed off sick is grounds for dismissal if discovered.
What if I get sick during annual leave? If you fall ill during your holiday and get a doctor's certificate, those days are not counted as vacation days. Notify your employer immediately and submit the AU.
Does sick leave affect my residence permit? In most cases, no. Short-term illness does not affect your employment status or your permit. However, if your employment contract is terminated due to extended absence, you should seek advice quickly, as this can impact your permit conditions.
Navigating employment rights in Germany can feel overwhelming, especially in a foreign language. If you have questions about your rights as an employee, your residence permit, or need help dealing with German authorities, Sylum is here to help. Reach out at sylum.de/contact.
