Entgeltfortzahlung means that your employer continues to pay your regular wages when you cannot work because of illness. Entgeltfortzahlung is a legal right under the Entgeltfortzahlungsgesetz (EFZG).
You keep getting your full pay from your employer for up to six weeks (42 days) when you are sick and unable to work. You must inform your employer immediately when you are sick.
You must give a medical certificate if the illness lasts longer than three days. Your employer can ask for the certificate sooner.
If your sickness lasts longer than the Entgeltfortzahlung period, statutory health insurance starts paying the Krankengeld (sick pay) afterwards.
What is sick pay, and how do you apply to get it? ->
You will see the term Entgeltfortzahlung in employment contracts, company handbooks, and HR communications. As an expat, remember to follow the reporting rules and keep doctor notes to secure Entgeltfortzahlung.
Examples:
- You have the flu and miss five workdays. Your employer pays your normal salary for those days under Entgeltfortzahlung.
- You are sick for eight weeks. Your employer pays for the first six weeks (Entgeltfortzahlung). After that, your health insurance may pay Krankengeld.