Resigning from a job in Germany is a fairly straightforward
process, but there are a few key steps to follow.
First, it is important to inform your employer of your
decision to resign. This can be done in person, over the phone, or in writing.
It is generally considered good practice to provide your employer with at least
two weeks' notice unless there is a valid reason for providing less notice.
Next, you will need to provide your employer with a written
notice of resignation. This notice should include the date of your resignation,
as well as any outstanding vacation days that you will be entitled to receive.
Your employer will then typically provide you with written confirmation of
your resignation.
Once your resignation has been accepted, you will need to
return any company property that you have in your possession, such as keys,
equipment, or documents. You will also need to complete any outstanding tasks
or projects before your final day of work.
Finally, it is important to remember that you are entitled
to receive your final salary and any other outstanding payments, such as
bonuses or vacation pay, on your last day of work. Your employer is required to
provide you with a written statement of your final salary and any other
outstanding payments within eight days of your final day of work.
In conclusion, resigning from a job in Germany is a relatively simple process, but it is important to follow the steps outlined above to ensure that everything is handled smoothly and professionally.
1. Verify the notice terms in your contract.
Your employment contract is the most reliable source of information regarding how much notice you must provide. Different notification requirements are made by each employer. Some request the legally required four weeks, while others might ask for three months or longer.
Understanding this notice time is crucial. Only once your notice period has passed are you eligible to begin a new job.
2. Verify the deadline for submitting your resignation letter.
Check the specifics on when your notice period will begin counting while reviewing your employment contract. For instance, some work contracts state that your resignation letter must be sent by the 15th or before the end of the month.
Here is an illustration of one of my employment contracts, which states that any party may cancel the job relationship by giving the other party three months' notice before the end of the month.
3. Compose a letter of termination.
Your German employer will anticipate a specific format for your resignation letter. You can use the comprehensive guide we've provided to create a formal resignation letter in Germany.
In your letter of termination, don't forget to request an employment reference letter (Arbeitszeugnis) and a vacation certificate (Urlaubsbescheinigung).
4. Determine how many vacation days you still have.
You're in luck if you quit a job in Germany with unused vacation time since you can utilize it before you part ways with your employer. Depending on how long you've worked for your business and what time of year you decide to leave, you'll know how many vacation days you still have left. More information on German vacation days can be found in our guide.
To properly plan your handover with your team and supervisor, you must be aware of how many vacation days you will need to take during your notice period.
5. Arrange a meeting with your supervisor.
It is usually preferable to quit your work in person since it demonstrates professionalism and respect. If you work remotely, you can also resign in person by setting up a video conference with your boss.
6. Inform Your Employer That You Are Resigning
Regarding the reasons for your decision to change jobs, you should be open with your employer. Try to keep your justifications uplifting. Mention a few lessons you've learned in your current position and concentrate on the aspects of your new position that excite you. Avoid criticizing your current position and make a list of all the little things that have annoyed you.