Germany looks to ban calling in sick, would require doctors’ notes immediately
The coalition says the change will curb absenteeism as Germany’s average worker takes 19.5 sick days a year, according to IGES research.
- On Thursday, July 2, 2026, Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced plans to abolish phone-based sick notes, requiring employees to obtain in-person medical certificates from the first day of illness beginning in January 2027.
- Merz defended the policy, citing Germany's average of 15 sick days annually as a "competitive disadvantage" harming the nation's sluggish economy and requiring immediate structural intervention.
- Trade unions condemned the mandate as an "attack on workers' rights," while the German Association of General Practitioners warned that in-person visits would be "absolutely catastrophic," clogging clinics with unnecessary appointments.
- This 34-measure economic package includes 10 billion euros in annual tax relief for low-income earners, funded by raising the top tax rate to 47% for those earning over 280,000 euros.
- Parliament is expected to pass the measures by year-end, as the coalition seeks to demonstrate administrative competence ahead of critical regional elections in September amid rising far-right Alternative for Germany polling.
112 Articles
112 Articles
In the case of sick leave, a certificate will have to be issued from the first day. Many employees could be unsure of this, an expert will explain.
The Federal Government's patient representative, Schwartze, has criticised the coalition's plans to send employees to the doctor from day one of a disease.
The government wants to tighten up medical records. Family doctors warn of symbol politics, millions of additional practical visits and more bureaucracy.
Zero Hedge
Nemos News NetworkGerman Clampdown On Sick Leave: No More Phoning It In, Doc Note Needed On Day 1
German Clampdown On Sick Leave: No More Phoning It In, Doc Note Needed On Day 1 In a stark departure from its reputation for employee-coddling, the German government is attacking the mass abuse of sick leave with strict new policies that would require a doctor's note obtained on the very first day an employee is sick, with no ability to simply take a sick day with a mere phone call. The reform package also targets retirement ages, tax rates, re…
berlingske.dk
A new proposal from the German government aims to reduce the high rate of sick leave, but is facing criticism from trade unions.
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