Key takeaways
- Probation in Germany can last up to six months.
- During probation, either side can end the contract with two weeks' notice.
- After that, the legal minimum notice is four weeks to the 15th or the end of a month.
- General protection against dismissal applies after six months in companies with more than ten employees.
Your first six months in a German job are usually a probation period. On a work visa it can feel stressful, so it helps to know the rules.
The rules
- Length: up to six months.
- Notice during probation: two weeks, for both sides (§622 Civil Code).
- After probation: at least four weeks to the 15th or the end of a calendar month, longer with more years of service, unless your contract or a collective agreement says otherwise.
- Protection against dismissal: after six months, in companies with more than ten employees (§1, §23 Protection Against Dismissal Act).
If you are on a work visa
If you lose your job, inform the immigration office and register with the employment agency as a job seeker straight away. Read my guide on the first 30 days after a layoff.
How to pass probation
- Agree on goals in week one. Ask your manager what success looks like after 3 and 6 months.
- Ask for feedback early. A check in after 6 to 8 weeks avoids surprises.
- Document your results. Short notes help in your probation review.
- Build relationships. German teams value reliability and clear communication.
Common questions
How long is probation in Germany?
Up to six months.
What is the notice period during probation?
Two weeks for both sides, unless the contract says more.
Can I be dismissed during probation without a reason?
During the first six months, general protection against dismissal does not apply yet.
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.
