Germany Tightens Sick Leave Rules, Requiring Medical Certificate From Day One

Germany is introducing stricter sick leave regulations as part of a broader reform push. Under the new rules, employees will be required to obtain a medical certificate even for a single day of absence due to illness. Previously, workers could self-certify sick leave for up to three days without visiting a doctor. The old system also allowed employees to obtain a week-long sick note over the phone without an in-person consultation. The reforms aim to tighten workplace attendance standards and reduce informal sick leave practices.