Temporary work in Germany is becoming an increasingly popular option for both employees and employers. German industries, known for their high standards of quality and efficiency, have been attracting workers from different countries for years, offering attractive employment conditions and the opportunity to gain valuable work experience. Temporary workers, i.e. people hired for a limited period of time by temporary employment agencies, play a key role in maintaining the continuity and dynamism of work.

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Temporary agency work in Germany – relevance


Temporary workers perform an important function in many sectors of the German economy.

Temporary workers enable companies to respond flexibly to changing labour demands. During periods of peak activity, such as the summer season or holiday periods, for example, companies can quickly increase the number of employees they employ in order to meet the growing demands of projects.

By working with temporary staffing agencies, companies can quickly source employees with the right skills and experience to speed up project delivery. We have extensive access to a database of candidates. Which allows us to effectively match employees to the specific needs of the assignment. The high demands and standards of working in Germany mean that temporary workers gain valuable skills and experience. This, in turn, improves their qualifications, which benefits both themselves and future employers.

Temporary agency work in Germany – the legal context


Temporary work in Germany is strictly regulated by law. This is intended to protect the rights of both employees and employers. The key provisions on temporary work are contained in the Temporary Employment Act, known as the Arbeitnehmerüberlassungsgesetz (AÜG). This law regulates the conditions under which temporary employment agencies can hire employees to other companies.

Agencies must obtain an appropriate license from the Federal Employment Agency (Bundesagentur für Arbeit) to legally operate on the temporary employment market. Importantly, temporary employees have the right to remuneration that is not worse than the remuneration of permanent employees in similar positions (principle of equal pay).

Moreover, the maximum period for which an employee can work in one company as a temporary employee is 18 months. After this period, the employee should be employed permanently or transferred to another company.

Required documents and permits


To legally work as a temporary employee, it is necessary to meet certain formal requirements:

  1. Work permit. Citizens of countries outside the European Union and the European Economic Area must have a valid work permit. No special work permit is required for EU and EEA citizens, but they must be registered with the relevant offices.
  2. Work visa. If the employee is from outside the EU/EEA, you may need to obtain a work visa. The procedure for obtaining a visa depends on the employee’s country of origin and professional qualifications.
  3. Documents confirming qualifications. Some positions require documents confirming professional qualifications, such as diplomas, certificates or certificates of completed courses.
    Registration at the local office. Employees must register at the local registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt) at their place of residence.
  4. Social and health insurance. Temporary workers must be covered by social and health insurance. Temporary employment agencies are obliged to register employees in the insurance system.

Temporary work in Germany – recruitment

The temporary employee recruitment process is carefully structured to ensure both employees and employers are properly matched and meet project requirements. When we receive an order from a client that specifies specific needs regarding the number, type and qualifications of employees needed for a given project, we analyze them. We then begin the process of searching for potential candidates using our recruitment technologies. After collecting candidates’ applications, we select them, taking into account qualifications, professional experience, technical skills and readiness to work in Germany. We ask selected candidates to present the necessary documents confirming their qualifications, such as diplomas, certificates or certificates of completed training. After successfully passing the selection process, we inform selected candidates about working conditions, the start date of employment and procedures related to travel and accommodation at the workplace. After the candidates accept the job offer, we prepare and sign a contract.

The role of employment agencies


The employment agency plays a key role in the recruitment and employment process.

  • We work with clients to understand their needs and requirements for temporary workers.
  • We actively recruit using various channels to find suitable candidates who meet customer requirements.
  • We check candidates’ qualifications and experience to ensure they are properly prepared for the job.
  • We deal with all formalities related to the employment of temporary workers, such as preparing contracts, completing documents and providing the necessary permits and licenses.
  • We maintain regular contact with temporary employees, providing them with support and solving any emerging problems or questions.
  • We monitor the efficiency and quality of employees’ work, working to ensure customer and employee satisfaction.


Summary


Temporary work plays an important role in German economic sectors. It ensures flexibility, access to qualified employees and effective human resources management. Temporary workers enjoy a number of benefits from working temporarily in Germany, including better pay, gaining international experience, professional development and job flexibility.

In light of the discussed benefits and development prospects, temporary work in Germany may be an attractive option for job seekers who want to develop their professional careers. We therefore encourage you to consider the possibility of temporary work as a way to gain valuable experience, develop skills and achieve success.