Most employment contracts in Germany include a probation period (Probezeit). This phase is legally defined, widely used, and often misunderstood—especially by international employees. This page explains how long probation usually lasts, what rights you do and do not have, how termination works, and how to approach this period strategically.
What Is the Probation Period (Probezeit)?
The probation period is an initial evaluation phase at the beginning of an employment relationship. During this time, both employer and employee can assess fit with reduced legal barriers to termination.
Important points:
• Probation is not automatic—it must be written into the contract
• It applies to both sides, not only the employee
• It does not mean you have fewer working obligations
How Long Does the Probation Period Last?
Typical Duration
• Most common: 6 months
• Shorter periods (3 months) are possible
• Longer probation periods are not legally valid
Under German law, 6 months is the maximum probation period for reduced dismissal protection.
Termination Rules During Probation
Notice Period (KĂĽndigungsfrist)
During probation:
• Notice period is usually 2 weeks
• Termination can occur:
• Without stating reasons
• On any day (not only end of month)
This applies to both employer and employee, unless the contract states otherwise.
No General Dismissal Protection Yet
Germany’s general protection against unfair dismissal (Kündigungsschutz) only applies after:
• 6 months of employment
• Company size threshold is met
This means:
• The employer does not need to justify termination during probation
• However, termination cannot be discriminatory or unlawful
Rights You Still Have During Probation
Probation does not remove your basic rights.
You are still entitled to:
• Full salary as agreed
• Paid vacation (pro rata)
• Continued payment during sickness (after qualifying periods)
• Safe working conditions
Illegal reasons for termination (e.g. discrimination) remain illegal.
Vacation & Sick Leave During Probation
Vacation
• You accrue vacation from day one
• Many employers allow vacation during probation
• Some prefer limited or no vacation early on (company policy)
Sick Leave
• You may take sick leave if medically necessary
• A doctor’s certificate is usually required from day 1 or day 3
Being sick is allowed—but frequent or unexplained absences may raise concerns during probation.
Common Misunderstandings
“Probation Means I Can’t Quit”
❌ False.
You can resign during probation with the same notice period.
⸻
“I Have No Rights During Probation”
❌ False.
You have fewer dismissal protections, not fewer rights.
⸻
“Passing Probation Is Automatic”
❌ False.
Most people pass—but only if expectations are met.
How Employers Evaluate You During Probation
German employers typically focus on:
• Reliability and punctuality
• Quality and accuracy of work
• Ability to follow processes
• Communication style
• Willingness to learn
Overconfidence or excessive informality can be viewed negatively.
How to Handle Probation Strategically
Clarify Expectations Early
• Ask what “success” looks like in your role
• Understand priorities and evaluation criteria
Communicate, Don’t Guess
• If something is unclear, ask
• Silence is often interpreted as understanding
Document Your Work
• Keep track of tasks, progress, and feedback
• Useful if expectations change or problems arise
What Happens After Probation Ends?
If no termination occurs:
• Your contract continues automatically
• Longer notice periods usually apply
• Full dismissal protection may now apply
There is no formal ceremony—probation simply ends.
Reality Check
• Probation is standard, not a warning sign
• Termination during probation is legal but not arbitrary
• Most employees pass probation if expectations are clear and met
Treat probation as a mutual trial period, not a test you silently endure.