“Work While Sick?” – New Reform Could Leave Employees Without Pay
The German government is considering significant changes to sick leave regulations, raising concerns that employees may soon receive less financial support while ill.
Currently, workers in Germany receive full pay from their employer for up to six weeks if they are unable to work due to illness. After that period, health insurance takes over to pay reduced compensation. However, the new proposals aim to shorten this period paid by the employer.
A key idea under discussion is the reintroduction of the "waiting day", meaning that employees will not receive pay for the first day of illness. This system was abolished in 1970, but officials believe that reinstating it could reduce sick leave and lower costs.
Another proposal involves reducing the continuous wage payment period of six weeks. If implemented, health insurance companies will enter earlier, as they will pay Krankengeld (sick pay), which is less than the full salary - about 70% of gross income, with a maximum of 90% of net earnings.
The government is also considering capping employer-paid sick leave to just six weeks a year. After that, insurance companies will take over immediately, which could relieve financial pressure on businesses.
These plans have sparked strong opposition from social organizations and political figures. Critics warn that reducing sick pay may force employees to work while ill, endangering their health and the health of others, while also weakening social protection systems.
Although Germany records relatively high absenteeism rates in Europe, experts warn that the data may not be directly comparable due to more accurate digital reporting systems. Studies indicate that factors such as seasonal illnesses, rather than system abuse, are the main drivers behind absenteeism.