Almost every employment contract in Germany starts with a probation period (Probezeit). It gives both sides time to get to know each other. The probation period does not make the contract "weaker": pay, social insurance and your basic rights apply from day one. The only difference is that the contract can be ended at shorter notice.
How long is the probation period?
- By law, six months at most. Shorter periods such as three months are common too.
- There is only a probation period if it is agreed in the contract or collective agreement.
- In fixed-term contracts the probation period has to be in proportion to the length of the contract. Six months' probation in a six-month contract is usually not allowed.
- It cannot be extended beyond six months.
Notice during probation: two weeks
During probation both sides can end the contract with two weeks' notice, starting on any day.
- Your employer does not need a reason. General protection against dismissal (Kündigungsschutzgesetz) only applies after six months and in companies with more than ten employees.
- Notice must be in writing with a handwritten signature. Notice by email, WhatsApp or text message is invalid – for your own resignation too.
- Special protection, for example during pregnancy, also applies during probation.
- After being given notice, register as a jobseeker with the Agentur für Arbeit within three days.
How to resign properly: resigning in Germany
Holidays and sick days during probation
- Holidays: the full annual leave only starts after six months. Before that you earn one twelfth for every full month, which you can take with your employer's agreement. More: annual leave in Germany
- Illness: call in sick straight away and get a sick note if needed. Sick pay from your employer starts after four weeks of employment; before that your health insurance pays sickness benefit. More: calling in sick in Germany
- Being ill does not protect you from dismissal – but missing work without notice is one of the most common reasons for it.
8 tips for a good probation period
- Be on time. If you are running late, say so before your shift starts.
- Ask questions. Better to ask once more than to make the same mistake twice.
- Take notes on processes, logins and who is responsible for what.
- Follow safety rules – especially in warehouses, trades and kitchens.
- Ask for feedback after six to eight weeks: “Wie zufrieden sind Sie bisher mit meiner Arbeit?”
- Talk to your colleagues. It helps you settle in – and improves your German.
- Record your hours, especially overtime. More: working hours, breaks and overtime
- Know the end date. After it, notice is usually at least four weeks.
Frequently asked questions
Do I get unemployment benefit after being dismissed during probation?+
Yes, if you worked in insured employment for at least 12 months in the last 30 months. Register as a jobseeker within three days of receiving notice. If you resign yourself, a blocking period (Sperrzeit) may apply.
Can the probation period be extended?+
Only up to the legal limit of six months. A three-month probation can be extended in writing to six months at most; a six-month probation cannot be extended.
Can I be paid less during probation?+
Only if the contract says so explicitly – and never below the minimum wage. If the contract says nothing, the agreed salary applies from day one.
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