Krankschreibung — Medical Leave in Germany

How does it work?

1. Days 1–3 — you can be sick without a certificate (unless your contract requires it earlier)
2. From day 4 — you need a Krankschreibung from a doctor (§5 Entgeltfortzahlungsgesetz)
3. Since 2023, the certificate is submitted electronically (eAU) — the doctor sends it to Krankenkasse, your employer retrieves it themselves

What do you need to do?

Step 1: Inform your employer

• IMMEDIATELY in the morning (phone, SMS, email), before your shift starts
• Provide an estimated duration; you do NOT have to say what you're sick with

Step 2: Go to or call a doctor

• You will receive an Arbeitsunfähigkeitsbescheinigung (AU)
• Telephone medical certificate is possible for up to 5 days for minor illnesses, if you are an established patient of the practice (there is no right to it — the doctor decides)

How much money do you get?

• Weeks 1–6: employer pays 100% of salary (Entgeltfortzahlung)
• From week 7: Krankenkasse pays Krankengeld — details on amounts and 78 weeks are described in a separate article Krankengeld

The contributions that finance this are discussed in health insurance.

Sick child — Kinderkrankengeld

In 2026: 15 days per parent and child (single parent — 30), max. 35 days per parent with multiple children (single parent — 70). Child must be under 12 years old. Telephone medical certificate is also possible here for up to 5 days.

Can I leave the house?

YES, if it doesn't harm your health: doctor visit, pharmacy, walk, shopping.
NO: work (including remote), sports without recommendation, vacation trip.

⚠️ Krankenkasse may arrange a check (Medizinischer Dienst).

Extension

If you don't recover — go to or call a doctor before the end of your current certificate to get a Folgebescheinigung. Remember: illness does not stop notice of termination from your employment contract, but protects you from dismissal "for being sick".