Sick Leave German government considers wage deductions to curb sick leave abuse Employees with high attendance could be rewarded with paid time off in fresh efforts to tackle absenteeism iStock.com/designer491 Image Josh Stephens Senior Reporter Tuesday 28 April 2026 German workers could see their wages cut if they take too much sick leave as part of a government proposal attempting to limit the country’s absentee rates, which are among the highest in Europe. Get AccessContinue reading International Employment LawyerAlready have access? Login now Email Enter your email address. Password Enter the password that accompanies your email address. Reset your passwordLog in Need access? Find out how to enjoy unlimited accessGet access For more on legislative change across the globe, see the IEL Monitor – IEL’s forward-looking tracking tool that covers developments in labour and employment law around the world. You might also like... Sick Leave Tesla defends visiting homes of sick German workers Sick Leave Spain launches government body to tackle sky high absenteeism rates Sick Leave Dutch bill to ease business burden in long-term sickness reintegration Sick Leave Suspicious of mounting sick leave, German bosses turn to private eyes