Working in Germany attracts many expatriates every year. The country benefits from a strong economy, a dynamic labor market, and advantageous social protection. Before signing a contract, it is essential to be well aware of the rules governing working hours, holidays, salaries, and the terms of contract termination.
1. Legal Working Hours in Germany
When working in Germany, the law sets a maximum working time of 8 hours per day, or about 40 hours per week. In certain exceptional cases, the working day can be extended to 10 hours, provided that the average remains 8 hours over a given reference period.
Overtime is possible but strictly regulated. It must either be compensated with time off or paid additionally. Many companies use the ‘working time account’ system (Arbeitszeitkonto), which allows employees to recover extra hours worked in the form of time off.
2. Paid Leave and Maternity Leave
When working in Germany, legislation provides a minimum of 24 working days of paid leave per year after six months of employment. However, it is common for companies to offer 25 to 30 days, especially in large organizations or through advantageous collective agreements.
Regarding maternity leave, the rights are clearly defined:
- 6 weeks before childbirth,
- 8 weeks after birth (extended to 12 weeks in the case of multiple or premature births).
These periods are protected and remunerated, ensuring financial and professional security for employees.
3. Public Holidays in Germany
The country has 9 national public holidays, to which additional days may be added depending on the federal state (Land). For example, Bavaria and Saxony celebrate more religious holidays than other regions.
The common public holidays are:
- January 1: New Year’s Day
- Good Friday
- Easter Monday
- May 1: Labour Day
- Ascension Day
- Whit Monday (Pentecost Monday)
- October 3: German Unity Day
- December 25: Christmas Day
- December 26: St. Stephen’s Day
It is therefore important to check the regional calendar to know which days off you are entitled to.
4. Average and Minimum Salaries in Germany
To better understand the reality of working in Germany, here is an overview of minimum and average salaries in 2025, with their estimated monthly and net equivalents.
| Salary Type | Gross Amount | Estimated Net Amount | Notes |
| Minimum Hourly Wage | 12,82 € | ~9,50 € – 10 € | In effect since January 2025 |
| Minimum Monthly Wage (40h/week) | 2 161 € | ~1 600 € – 1 750 € | For full-time work |
| Average Gross Monthly Salary | 4 358 € | ~2 800 € – 3 200 € | Includes bonuses and extra payments |
| Median Gross Monthly Salary | 3 817 € | ~2 500 € – 2 800 € | Considered more representative than the average |
Advice : Net amounts depend on family situation, taxes, and social contributions (single, married, with or without children, federal state of residence, etc.).
5. Termination of Contract and Probation Period
The notice periods for terminating an employment contract in Germany depend on seniority:
- Minimum of 14 days during the probation period or for contracts shorter than 6 months,
- Minimum of 4 weeks after 7 months of employment,
- Longer notice periods apply in the case of dismissal, proportional to seniority.
The probation period is not mandatory but common for permanent contracts (CDI). It usually lasts up to 6 months, with the possibility of termination with a two-week notice.
6. Tips for Succeeding at Work in Germany
To successfully integrate professionally when working in Germany, it is important to be aware of certain specifics of the German job market. Your sector’s collective agreement may provide additional benefits, such as extra days off or bonuses. Public holidays also vary depending on the federal state (Land), which directly affects work schedule organization.
Salary negotiation plays a central role: although the legal minimum wage is guaranteed, many skilled positions offer much higher compensation, often with additional benefits such as remote work or performance bonuses.
Furthermore, continuing education is highly valued when working in Germany. Participating in courses or seminars can be a real springboard for advancing your career. Finally, punctuality and diligence are two core values in the German professional environment. Respecting them will not only facilitate your integration but also improve your career prospects.
conclusion
Working in Germany offers a solid and protective framework for employees, whether local or expatriate. With strict regulations on working hours, guaranteed leave, security provided by the minimum wage, and opportunities offered through continuing education, the country stands out as an attractive professional destination in Europe. However, it is important to be well aware of regional specifics and collective agreements to fully benefit from the opportunities offered by the German labor market.
What is the legal working time in Germany?
The legal working time is 8 hours per day, or about 40 hours per week. In some cases, it can go up to 10 hours, provided that the average remains 8 hours.
How many days of paid leave are there in Germany?
An employee is entitled to a minimum of 24 working days of paid leave per year after six months of employment. Many companies offer between 25 and 30 days.
AccWhat is the minimum wage in Germany in 2025?
Since January 2025, it is €12.82 gross per hour, or approximately €2,161 gross per month for full-time work.
What is the average salary in Germany?
The average gross salary is about €4,358 per month, while the median gross salary is €3,817.
What are the notice periods for terminating a contract?
Minimum of 14 days during the probation period or for contracts shorter than 6 months, and a minimum of 4 weeks after 7 months of employment. Notice periods increase with seniority.
