For employees and employers
Notice period in Germany (section 622 BGB)
The basic notice is four weeks to the 15th or the end of a month. When the employer gives notice, it increases with length of service to up to seven months to the end of a month.
Notice periodValues 2026
Result
End of employment–
Notice period–
Length of service when notice is received–
Explanation
Collective agreements may set different periods (section 622(4) BGB), employment contracts longer ones. Notice must be given in writing (section 623 BGB). A possible severance payment is calculated by the severance calculator.
Note: an indication, not legal or tax advice
This calculation is based on the general statutory rules and the values published for 2026. It is not legal, tax or payroll advice. Collective agreements, employment contracts and works agreements may provide more favourable rules.
Sources and values used
| Item | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Basic notice | 4 weeks to the 15th or end of the month | BGB, § 622 (Kündigungsfristen) (in German) |
| Employer, from 2 / 5 / 8 / 10 years | 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 months to the end of a month | BGB, § 622 (Kündigungsfristen) (in German) |
| Employer, from 12 / 15 / 20 years | 5 / 6 / 7 months to the end of a month | BGB, § 622 (Kündigungsfristen) (in German) |
| Probation | 2 weeks | BGB, § 622 (Kündigungsfristen) (in German) |
Sources checked on 15 October 2026.