What is special leave?
Special leave refers to paid or unpaid leave from work that exceeds the regular leave entitlement. It is granted in special situations in which employees are prevented from working for a short period of time for personal reasons.
Legal basis
The legal basis for special leave is Section 616 of the German Civil Code (BGB). According to this, employees retain their entitlement to remuneration if they are “prevented from performing their duties for a relatively insignificant period of time for reasons for which they are not responsible”. However, this regulation can be restricted or excluded by employment or collective agreements.
Typical occasions for special leave
Special leave is often granted for the following events.
- Own wedding or registration of a civil partnership: Usually one day.
- The birth of your own child: Usually a day for the father.
- Death of a close relative: Usually one to two days.
- Relocation for professional reasons: Usually one day.
- 25th or 40th company anniversary: usually one day.
- Serious illness of a relative living in the household: As a rule, one day.
Note: There is no statutory entitlement. The exact duration and conditions for special leave may vary depending on the collective agreement, works agreement or individual employment contract.
Applying for special leave
Employees should apply to their employer for special leave in good time and, if necessary, provide evidence of the reason (e.g. marriage or death certificate). Transparent communication facilitates the planning and approval of special leave.
Digital support with time recording solutions from ZMI
ZMI’s time recording solutions help companies to manage special leave requests efficiently. Digital workflows allow employees to apply for special leave, which is then checked and approved by the responsible persons. Automated documentation ensures transparency and legal certainty.