Annual Leave Entitlement: Germany vs. Austria
The difference in annual leave entitlement between Germany and Austria is significant for employees. In Germany, the Federal Vacation Act (BUrlG) sets the minimum entitlement to vacation, while in Austria, the Vacation Act (UrlG) applies. These differences can have substantial impacts on working conditions and the quality of life for employees.
Comparison at a Glance
| Criterion | 🇩🇪 Germany | 🇦🇹 Austria |
|---|---|---|
| Statutory Minimum Vacation Days | 20 days (4 weeks) | 25 days (5 weeks) |
| Additional Vacation | No legal regulation | Up to 30 days (6 weeks) possible |
| Vacation Entitlement for Part-Time | Pro rata temporis | Pro rata temporis |
| Carrying Over Vacation | Until March 31 of the following year | Until December 31 of the following year |
| Vacation Payout | Upon termination of employment | Upon termination of employment |
| Vacation Request Deadline | At least 4 weeks in advance | At least 4 weeks in advance |
| Special Regulations | None | Public holidays do not count as vacation days |
Key Differences
A key difference between Germany and Austria is the statutory minimum vacation. While in Germany the minimum entitlement is 20 days, employees in Austria are entitled to at least 25 days. This means that Austrian employees typically have more time for rest and leisure.
Additionally, there is the possibility in Austria to receive up to 30 days of vacation, which is not legally regulated in Germany. The deadlines for carrying over vacation days also differ, which can be significant for employees who cannot take their vacation within the calendar year.
Relevant templates on DokBrief:
- Vacation Request — Template for requesting vacation