Security in Everyday Work Life: Illness, Parental Leave, and Unemployment

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Once they arrive in Germany, employees face new challenges: What happens if they get sick? How does parental leave work? And what entitlements do they have in the event of unemployment? This article explains your rights in difficult situations.

Illness and Continued Pay

Anyone who is unable to work due to illness must obtain a medical certificate of incapacity for work (Arbeitsunfähigkeitsbescheinigung). This must be submitted to the employer promptly (nowadays usually transmitted electronically).

To continue receiving your salary, the following requirements must be met:

• Employment for at least four weeks.
• Proper notification of illness.

The employer continues to pay your salary for a maximum of six weeks. After that, the health insurance provider takes over and pays sick pay (usually 70% of gross earnings, up to a maximum of 90% of net earnings). A separate application is usually not required for this.

Parental Leave and Parental Allowance

Parents have the right to take up to three years of parental leave. During this time, you enjoy special protection against dismissal. No wages are paid during parental leave, but you can apply for parental allowance.

Parental allowance in detail:

• It is intended to compensate for lost income following the birth of a child.
• Amount: Approximately 65% of previous income (for higher earners) up to 100% (for lower earners).
• Duration: Basic parental allowance can be received for up to 14 months.
• Even individuals without prior income (e.g., students) receive a minimum parental allowance. Additionally, there is often a sibling bonus.

Warning and Termination

German law distinguishes between ordinary and extraordinary termination.

Ordinary termination: Takes place in compliance with contractual or statutory notice periods.

Extraordinary termination: This is termination without notice, which is only possible for “good cause” (e.g., theft, serious breach of duty).

The role of the warning letter: A warning letter is often issued before termination. It serves as a warning and gives you the chance to correct your behavior. Typical reasons include:

• Repeated tardiness or unexcused absences.
• Breach of employment contract obligations.

However, in cases of particularly serious violations, termination without notice may occur even without a prior warning.

Unemployment and Basic Income

If you lose your job, you may be eligible for unemployment benefits under certain conditions.

• Eligibility requirements: Unemployment, registration with the employment office, and at least 12 months of contributions to unemployment insurance.
• Amount: Generally 60% of your previous net income (67% if you have children).
• Duration: Usually 12 months (up to 24 months for employees over 50). Periods spent in other EU countries may also be counted.

Citizen’s Income (Basic Income Support) Citizen’s Income has replaced the former ALG II. It provides a livelihood for people of working age with low incomes.

• Requirements include being in need and being able to work.
• The application must be submitted in person at the Jobcenter.
• EU citizens may also be eligible under certain conditions.

How we support you

We know that bureaucratic hurdles can be stressful. As your partner for Romanian workers in Germany, we offer:

• Assistance with applications for parental allowance, unemployment benefits, and basic income support.
• Interpretation services in cases of conflicts, warnings, or terminations.
• Help understanding your rights in crisis situations.

Rely on our expertise so that you feel safe and legally protected in Germany.

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