Getting Started in Germany: Application, Contract, and Rights

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Many Romanian workers come to Germany to establish themselves professionally and secure a stable future for their families. But before their first day on the job begins, there are a few important steps to take. This article provides an overview of job hunting, the right employment contract, and your basic rights.

Job Search and Applications in Germany

The search for a suitable job or apprenticeship in Germany is significantly supported by the Bundesagentur für Arbeit. There you will find information on job openings, apprenticeship positions, and funding opportunities for continuing education.

Two points are particularly important for foreign workers:

• Language and integration courses: These are often subsidized.
• Recognition of credentials: School, university, and vocational credentials often need to be translated and recognized to be valid in Germany.

The application process In Germany, applications are usually submitted online or via email. A complete cover letter is almost always required, supplemented by:

• A resume in table format
• Certificates and supporting documents

After you apply, the employer will often invite you to an interview. An interpreter can help if there are language barriers. Some employers even cover travel expenses or offer interviews conducted entirely online, which is particularly advantageous for applicants residing abroad.

The Employment Contract: What You Need to Know

While there is freedom of contract in Germany, labor law protects employees through strict regulations. Important: Always insist on a written employment contract. Verbal agreements are difficult to prove later on.

Carefully review the contract for the following points:

• Job description: What exactly is expected of you?
• Compensation: Wages, salary, special payments (vacation pay/Christmas bonus).
• Overtime: Are there provisions regarding payment or time off in lieu?
• Probationary period and fixed-term contract: How long is the probationary period? Is the contract fixed-term?
• Non-compete clauses and liability: What restrictions apply after you leave the company?

Vacation and Christmas bonuses You are only entitled to a Christmas bonus if it is explicitly stipulated in the contract, in a collective bargaining agreement, or through company practice. If you change jobs during the current year, you may be entitled to a prorated amount. Under certain circumstances (e.g., long-term illness or parental leave), however, the bonus may be reduced.

Fixed-Term Contracts Contracts can be fixed-term or indefinite. An indefinite contract ends only upon termination. A fixed-term contract expires automatically.

• Unless there is a valid reason, a fixed-term contract for new hires may last no longer than two years and may be extended no more than three times.
• If a fixed-term contract is unlawful, the contract is automatically considered to be permanent.

Right to Part-Time Work Since 2001, there has been a legal right to part-time work in Germany. Since 2019, “bridge part-time” has also been available.

• Requirements: At least six months of employment with the company and more than 15 employees at the company (more than 45 for bridge part-time).
• The request must be submitted in writing three months in advance. Employers may only refuse for important operational reasons.

How we support you

We guide you safely through your start in Germany. Our services include:

• Preparation of application documents.

• Assistance in understanding complex employment contracts.

• Professional translations of references and documents.

Take advantage of our experience to get off to a safe and well-informed start in Germany!

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