Strategic Update: New Absenteeism Legislation Starting January 2025
📅 Key Legislative Changes Starting January 2025
1. Extended Salary Payment Obligation for Employers
Employers (excluding SMEs) are required to pay 30% of the sickness benefit during the first two months of primary incapacity for work, following the guaranteed salary period. This measure replaces the previous accountability contribution and applies to employees aged 18 to 54.
2. Relapse Period Extended
The relapse period is extended from two to eight weeks. This means that an employee will only be entitled to guaranteed salary again after eight weeks of resumed work if they fall ill once more.
3. Mandatory Reintegration Efforts
Employers are required, with the employee’s consent, to start a reintegration process from the first day of illness. Treating physicians, health insurance funds, and external prevention services are also expected to take an active role.
4. Limit on Sick Notes
In companies with more than 50 employees, staff may take a sick day without a medical certificate no more than twice per year. This is a reduction from the previous limit of three times.
🔍 Comparison with the Situation Before 2025
| Aspect | Before 2025 | As of January 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Relapse period for guaranteed salary | 2 weeks | 8 weeks |
| Employer responsibility | Only during guaranteed salary period | Additional 30% of sickness benefit (excluding SMEs) |
| Sick days without a certificate | Up to 3 times per year | Up to 2 times per year (in companies with >50 employees) |
| Start of reintegration process | After prolonged absence | From first day of illness (with consent) |
🎯 What Does This Mean for Your Organization?
For companies and professionals following management training at VAH Consulting, it is essential to:
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Develop a proactive absenteeism policy focused on prevention and early reintegration.
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Train employees and managers to recognize signs of absenteeism and conduct effective return-to-work conversations.
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Collaborate with external prevention services to ensure a holistic approach to well-being and reintegration.
By implementing these measures in a timely manner, organizations can not only meet the new legal obligations but also contribute to a healthier and more productive workplace.
🚀 Ready for the Next Step?
At VAH Consulting, we support organizations in strategically translating legislation into practice. Our specialized training and consulting programs help you not only comply with the new absenteeism regulations, but also take charge of sustainable employability.
We believe in leadership that makes a difference — even in someone’s absence. With a personal approach and a focus on results, we empower managers and teams to take action.
Don’t let legal changes become a source of uncertainty. With the right support, you can avoid misunderstandings, control absenteeism costs, and build a resilient organizational culture.
📩 Want to learn more about our approach? Contact us for a free consultation — we’d be happy to help.
If you would like more information about the content, you can always request a no-obligation appointment.
