Moving can be a stressful and time-consuming process, involving a long list of tasks such as packing, cleaning, organising, lifting heavy boxes, arranging transportation, and coordinating schedules and helpers.
Completing a move over a weekend is, therefore, sometimes challenging - and not always up to the renter.
Fortunately, in Germany there are some cases in which you can take a day of paid leave from work for this.
So, when exactly can you call out of work to move?
When are you entitled to paid leave to move?
Bad news first: Germany does not have a general requirement for employers to grant paid time off for a private move.
But, according to Section 616 of the German Civil Code, you are entitled to one or more paid days of leave if the following two conditions are met:
- You are moving for business reasons
- The move couldn’t realistically happen on a day off work
Moving for business reasons in this case means that you either need to relocate for your current position, or you need to move to a new location to start a new job. In the latter case, your new employer would pay for the moving day.
Regarding the second point, your move might be justified during work time if you have to be out of your home by the end of the month, for example. If you could reasonably avoid taking the time off work by moving on a weekend, paid leave may be denied.
Paid leave for moving would generally be limited to one work day. Two paid days off may be offered for particularly far moves – between distant cities or for international moves.
If you happen to work for the public sector, you can probably take a day off to move regardless. But of course you'd need to clarify with your boss or works council on the rules.
READ ALSO: The 'special' days when workers in Germany can get paid time off
Check your your employment contract, HR or your union
Even if you don’t meet the requirements listed above, some German employers offer paid time off for moving as an added benefit, and some labour unions have secured the benefit for their members as well. For example, the union IG Metall grants its members a day off work for a move, regardless if they are moving for work-related reasons or not.
To find out if your employer covers moving, you should double check your employment contract or reach out to HR or your works council to inquire.
If you are a union member, check the information on the union website or reach out to a contact there.
READ ALSO: Moving house in Germany: 7 things you need to know about setting up utility contracts
How do I request time off?
Similar to requesting time for other purposes, you’ll need to communicate directly with your employer about this, and it’s generally best to request the time off well enough in advance.
Typically at least two weeks before your move, giving them time to arrange any necessary cover or adjustments while you are away.
Your employer may ask for proof of your move, so it may be helpful to have documents such as a rental agreement or purchase contract ready to share. Although many employers may take your word on this.
If you need more than the standard 1-2 days of leave, consider other options, such as using annual leave or discussing flexible arrangements with your employer.
Looking to move? Find your next rental apartment here.
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