It’s a nuisance to fall seriously ill whilst on holiday. The good news is that a sick note issued abroad is also valid. The sick days will be credited later. However, those affected must inform their employer and health insurance provider immediately. If the incapacity for work lasts longer than three calendar days, a certificate of incapacity for work (AU) and the expected duration must be sent to both parties. This must explicitly state that the patient is unfit for work. Otherwise, the certificate will not be accepted in Germany.
Rules for travelling outside Europe
There are specific rules governing sick notes issued abroad. Anyone with statutory health insurance who falls ill in countries outside the European Union must send the certificate of incapacity for work to their employer and health insurance provider themselves – for example, by email. The certificate must include at least the employee’s name, the name and address of the certifying doctor, and details of the incapacity for work and its duration. If the incapacity for work lasts longer than stated on the first certificate, a new certificate must be issued and sent. Depending on the country, a translation is recommended. Anyone returning to Germany must also inform their employer and health insurance provider immediately.
Special insurance for repatriation
Falling ill abroad can be expensive. Special health insurance is particularly recommended for travel to non-EU countries. Unlike standard health insurance, it also covers necessary repatriation to Germany.
Certificates from the EU and countries with agreements
Even if you are covered by statutory health insurance and fall ill in another EU country, you must send the sick note yourself to your health insurance provider and your employer. The same rule applies to certain countries such as Switzerland, Norway, Tunisia and Turkey, with which there are special agreements in place.
Further information:
https://www.test.de/Arbeitsunfaehigkeit-Eine-Krankschreibung-gilt-auch-aus-dem-Ausland-6202110-0/
https://www.tk.de/firmenkunden/service/fachthemen/ausland/arbeitsunfaehigkeit-im-ausland-nachweispflichten -2145118?tkcm=ab
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