Key Legal and Regulatory Changes for German Businesses in 2026
From wage hikes to environmental regulations and transparency mandates, German firms face significant legal and operational adjustments in 2026.
Employment legislation
All employment legislation news
Record-High Sick Leave in Germany Signals Structural Change for Employers
Sick leave in Germany rose to a new high in 2024, driven by respiratory and musculoskeletal illnesses, prompting calls for companies to adopt strategic health and workplace reforms.
Germany Eases Safety Officer Requirements for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises
Germany’s Federal Ministry of Labor plans to reduce safety officer obligations for SMEs, easing bureaucracy while maintaining workplace safety standards.
German Companies Face Efficiency Drive Amid Mandatory Electronic Working Time Recording
German companies are intensifying efficiency-driven reorganizations while adapting to new mandatory electronic working time recording legislation with exemptions for small businesses.
Corporate Support Grows for 2025 Maximum Work Hours Regulation in Germany
German companies increasingly support the proposed weekly maximum work hours regulation for 2025.
Divided Opinions on Potential Weekly Maximum Working Hours in Germany
The debate in Germany over implementing a weekly working hours limit sees majority support from large enterprises but resistance from smaller businesses.
Support for Weekly Maximum Working Hours Gains Traction Among German Firms
Half of German companies support a weekly maximum working hours policy, with backing predominantly from large firms.
Industry Support Grows for Proposed Weekly Maximum Working Hours in Germany
Half of German companies support proposed maximum working hours, led by large industries.