Notice periods in German employment explained

The statutory periods are set out in section 622 of the German Civil Code. They apply if the employment contract says nothing different.

Basic period

4 weeks to the 15th or the end of a calendar month. This always applies to employees, and to employers during the first two years.

Longer periods when the employer gives notice

The longer the employment lasts, the longer the period: after 2 years 1 month, after 5 years 2 months, after 8 years 3 months, after 10 years 4 months, after 12 years 5 months, after 15 years 6 months, after 20 years 7 months. Notice then takes effect at the end of a calendar month.

Probation

During an agreed probation period of at most 6 months, a period of 2 weeks applies to both sides.

Good to know

What counts is the day the notice is received, not the day it was written.
Notice needs written form with a signature; email or messenger is not enough.
Collective agreements may set shorter periods, employment contracts longer ones for employees.
Special protection rules apply to certain groups, for example pregnant or severely disabled employees.

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