From Jana Schleske, Process Management Consultant
Fair pay isn’t just about numbers—it’s about dignity, respect, and long-term opportunity. Germany continues to invest in its healthcare workforce and values international professionals. If you’re dreaming of a career abroad in healthcare, understanding your worth is the first step.
1. Why Collective Labour Agreements Matter
In Germany, there are so-called collective agreements (Tarifverträge). These are agreements between employers and trade unions. They regulate:
- how much salary you receive,
- how many hours you work,
- how much vacation you get,
- and whether you receive Christmas or vacation bonuses.
Since September 2022, hospitals and care facilities in Germany are legally required to pay their employees according to collective agreements – or at least as much as is customary in the region.
This applies to:
- Care assistants (with and without training)
- Qualified nursing staff (with 3-year training)
- Support staff
Some employers still pay less – because the law allows some leeway. This leads to inequality.
2. Church-Based Providers and Their Own Rules
There are still different conditions in Germany. Some church-based providers (e.g., Caritas) have their own collective agreements. In 2021, they rejected a joint collective agreement for all care workers. The reason: they wanted to keep their own rules.
3. Caution with Employment Contracts signed outside the EU
Some global agencies offer contracts that do not comply with German regulations. These contracts:
- are signed in the respective countries,
- are often vaguely worded,
- contain no information about collective wages or labour rights.
These contracts can result in incoming workers earning less or facing worse conditions than allowed.
Example:
- An agency promises training in Germany, but the contract mentions no salary or working hours. That’s risky!
- An agency pays for the German language course and the flight to Germany, but the salary for the first 3–5 years is not according to the collective agreements – but lower, and the working conditions do not meet German standards negotiated with unions and employers.
4. Who Can Help You?
The Federal Employment Agency and the project “Make it in Germany” provide all relevant information on their websites.
Projects like “Business Chances Berlin” help you prepare well.
Unions and care associations are calling for more oversight of dubious agencies.
Your Right to Fair Working Conditions
Collective agreements protect you. They ensure:
- fair payment
- clear rules
- job security
If you receive a contract that is unclear or doesn’t look like it follows German law: Do not sign it immediately. Seek advice – for example, from a counselling Center.
What Is Good Health Care Worth?
Good health care requires good conditions – for you and your colleagues. Together, we can ensure that no one is exploited.
Need guidance?
Sasa Joblink helps you navigate your path to Germany with transparency and support. We’re here to ensure you are fairly paid and professionally valued. Reach out today to learn more.
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