Key takeaways
  • Salaries in German contracts are gross; check whether the amount is monthly or annual.
  • Probation can last up to 6 months, with a notice period of 2 weeks during that time.
  • The legal minimum holiday is 24 working days on a 6 day week, which is 20 days on a 5 day week; most employers give more.
  • Read relocation repayment and non-compete clauses carefully.

Getting the offer is a big moment. Before you sign, take one evening to read the contract properly. These are the 8 points I check with every client.

The checklist

  1. Salary. Gross, monthly or annual, and whether a 13th month or bonus is guaranteed. Estimate your take-home with gross vs net in Germany.
  2. Start date and job title. They must match what you agreed and what your visa application says.
  3. Probation period. Up to 6 months. During probation, either side can end the contract with 2 weeks notice (section 622 BGB).
  4. Notice period after probation. The legal minimum is 4 weeks to the 15th or end of a month, and it grows with years of service for the employer. Many contracts set longer periods.
  5. Working hours and overtime. Usually 38 to 40 hours a week. The normal legal limit is 8 hours a day, up to 10 if averaged out (Working Hours Act). Check whether overtime is paid or included.
  6. Holidays. The legal minimum is 24 working days on a 6 day week, which is 20 on a 5 day week (Federal Leave Act). Many employers give 25 to 30.
  7. Relocation support. If the company pays for your move, check whether you must repay it if you leave within a certain time.
  8. Non-compete and side jobs. A post-contract non-compete must normally come with compensation. Check whether side projects or content creation need permission.

Red flags

  • The contract differs from what you were promised in the interview.
  • Anyone asks you to pay for the job, the contract or the visa: read my scam checklist.
  • Pressure to sign the same day without time to read.

This is general information, not legal advice. For a specific clause, ask an employment lawyer or a counselling service.

Common questions

How long is the probation period in Germany?

Up to 6 months. During probation, the notice period is 2 weeks.

How many holidays will I get?

At least 20 working days on a 5 day week by law; most employers give 25 to 30.

Is the salary in my contract gross or net?

Gross. Estimate your net with the official tax calculator.

Free PDF: German job offer and contract checklistDownload it free in under a minute, or send OFFER to @swapnil_in_germany on Instagram.

Sources

Written by Swapnil (Samadhan Mule)

I moved to Germany for my master's, collected more than 1,000 rejections, and then got multiple job offers within six months. I work in digital marketing in Germany and help international professionals get hired in Europe. Read my story.