There are many misconceptions about hiring and firing employees in Germany. Our team can assist you in launching your German operations in a way that ensures you have the flexibility required when entering a new market, including connections with service providers who specialize in employment and labor law. Once you have those checks and balances in order, you’ll find one of the richest sources of labor in Europe and several business networks that will allow you to find excellent employees. Contact our U.S.-based representatives to help you start successfully.
Employment relationships in Germany are generally concluded by written contract. However, the government has provided flexible alternatives to aid companies in establishing a presence here.
Alternatives include temporary employment models (employ staff without having to conclude employment contracts directly with the individual, but instead with a talent staffing company) at conditions that can be freely negotiated; and part-time or short-term hiring options such as “midi-jobs” (monthly wage between EUR 450-800, with a reduced social security contribution) or “mini jobs”(maximum monthly wage of EUR 450) where 30 percent of the gross wage is collected from the employer for a social security contribution and lump-sum tax. There is also student employment, where university students seeking to gain work experience alongside their studies are permitted to work 120 full or 240 half days per year (i.e. 20 hours per week) without special authorization. This is a flexible option available to both German, EU/EEA and international students.
Job Centers through the Federal Employment Agency are present in every town and district in Bavaria, which provides professional personnel services free of charge to interested companies (paid service providers also exist).
Feel free to contact one of our U.S. representatives directly, or request a meeting using the form below.