"The German attitude to sickness is a major talking point among foreigners living in the country. To many, it is refreshing to see a country allow people to take paid time off when they're sick and to fully recover from the illness, no matter the severity. But at the same time, some wonder whether the system is a little too generous - and whether people take advantage of it."
"OECD data indicates that Germany records some of the highest numbers of sick days in Europe. According to figures compiled by the IGES institute and health insurer DAK-Gesundheit, on average employees in Germany took 25 paid sick days in 2022 - more than in any of the other countries included in the comparison. Meanwhile, public health insurance provider AOK's reports that in 2024, employees in Germany took an average of 23.9 sick days."
Germany records among the highest sick-leave rates in Europe, with IGES and DAK-Gesundheit reporting an average of 25 paid sick days in 2022 and AOK reporting 23.9 days in 2024. Many residents and foreigners view paid sick leave positively as allowing full recovery without financial loss. Employers and politicians express concern that generous rules encourage absences for minor ailments and strain businesses and the economy. Public debate is active, and social media responses show a range of explanations from genuine illness to suggestions of system abuse. Policy makers propose measures to discourage unnecessary leave while preserving protection for sick employees.
Read at The Local Germany
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