Can employees have more than one job in Germany?

Employees can have more than one job in Germany, but there are certain conditions and regulations to be considered:

  • Total Working Hours: The total working hours across all jobs must not exceed the legal limit, which is generally 8 hours per day, extendable to 10 hours provided the average of 8 hours per day is not exceeded within a 6-month or 24-week period.
  • Taxation: Each employee has a tax-free allowance, and income from all sources is aggregated to determine the overall tax rate. Secondary jobs are typically taxed at a higher rate.
  • Social Security Contributions: There are thresholds for social security contributions, including health insurance, pension insurance, unemployment insurance, and long-term care insurance. Working multiple jobs could affect these contributions and entitlements.
  • Notification: Employees must inform their main employer of their secondary employment. While the employer cannot generally prohibit additional employment, they can object if it affects the employee's performance or violates legal working time limits.
  • Rest Periods: Employees are entitled to rest periods, and secondary employment must not infringe upon these rights.
  • Competition Clause: Employment contracts may include competition clauses that restrict an employee's ability to work in certain fields or for certain competitors. It's crucial to check the primary employment contract for any such clauses.

Employees considering taking on additional jobs should ensure they comply with legal requirements and consider the impact on their taxes, social security, and work-life balance.



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