Germany COVID-19 Employer Resources

When Germany began its 5 step process out of the lockdown on March 8, it was already clear that the third wave was starting. Less than 2 weeks later, infections are on the rise again and Germany’s terribly slow vaccination program is not helping.  The lockdown, which was extended to March 28, and, in light of the current statistics, will likely be extended at the next meeting on March 22, is meeting with more resistance as frustrations with restrictions are growing, as shown by protests and demonstrations nationwide show.

The German government will be relinquishing its monopoly on the vaccine. The welcome decision has been made for GPs and company doctors to also vaccinate from mid-April. The vaccine shortage, however, still remains a challenge. Vaccination by GPs and company doctors was initially scheduled for the end of March/beginning of April, but vaccine delivery woes have made it necessary to push back the date. Until then, vaccinations will continue to be done at special testing centers as well as by mobile units for elderly people who are homebound. GPs and company doctors can only speed up the vaccination process to the extent that the vaccine is available.

Vaccination is free for both publicly and privately insured persons. According to an ordinance issued by the Federal Ministry of Health, the federal government pays for the vaccine, while the costs of setting up and organizing the vaccination centers are borne by the federal states and the public and private health insurance funds. Furthermore, the federal government is responsible for vaccinations carried out in medical practices.

Meanwhile, Germany will be looking to become independent from vaccine producers and plans to produce enough of the vaccine to cover its needs without having to rely on imports.

Following the approval by the Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices, rapid tests are now available from supermarkets and drug stores for self-testing. Furthermore, from March 15, all Germans are entitled to one free rapid test a week. Tests can be carried out at pharmacies or designated testing centers. Employers who wish to test their (willing) employees or retailers and restaurants to test their customers, must pay for the tests themselves.

According to a survey carried out in January and February 2021, about 67% of the 1000 respondents definitely want to be vaccinated. 13,2% would be somewhat willing to get it, 3,9% definitely do not want the vaccine,  4,2% are inclined to not getting vaccinated and just under 12% are undecided. The next survey results from the period of February 22 to March 8, are expected soon.

For more information see Profion’s COVID-19 employer fact sheet. 

COVID-19 vaccine considerations for Germany

  • Can employers mandate the vaccine?
    No
  • Who will control delivery of the vaccine?
    Federal government
  • Who covers the cost of the vaccine?
    Federal government
  • Where will people get vaccinated?
    Government designated vaccination locations
  • Is there cultural resistance to getting the vaccine?
    A little

Employee Benefits in Germany

Get insights on mandatory and common supplementary employee benefits in Germany.

Learn More

Top 6 Vaccine Considerations

Use our decision matrix to help support your employees.

Learn More

Page last modified: March 15, 2021

The information presented on this site is current as of the date initially posted; and, because matters related to COVID-19, the vaccine, and compliance measures are changing so quickly, it may not be current as of the date you read it. While the information gathered here is from Asinta global partners who are subject matter experts in their respective fields, this information is not meant to be a substitute for individual legal or medical advice, or as a substitute for advice in your specific situation.

Previous Coronavirus News for Employers in Germany

Employee Benefits in Germany During the Coronavirus

Employee benefits in Germany shifted due to COVID-19. A good example is the federal government enabling the mandatory benefit ‘Kurzarbeit,’ or short-term work benefits, as... Read More

Coronavirus Update for Employers in Germany

An extra-budgetary expenditure to the tune of up to EUR 23 million has been applied for. These monies are to continue the funding of measures... Read More