For decades, a 35-hour workweek has been one of the most prized achievements of organised labour in Germany. Now, that hard-won standard is under serious pressure. German carmakers are pushing for employees to work 40 hours a week — without receiving additional pay — arguing the change is essential for staying competitive in a rapidly shifting global market. Unions are firmly pushing back, framing the proposal as a direct attack on workers' rights. For expats employed in Germany's automotive sector or in industries that often follow its lead, this dispute is worth watching closely. The outcome could reshape what a standard working week looks like across one of Europe's largest economies.
German carmakers want to increase the standard working week from 35 hours to 40 hours, with no corresponding increase in pay. The industry's argument is rooted in competitiveness: global rivals, they say, operate under longer working hours, and German manufacturers need to close that gap to remain viable.
The proposal is significant because the automotive sector is a cornerstone of the German economy. When major carmakers push for structural changes to employment conditions, other industries often take note — and sometimes follow suit. If this change were to take hold, it would mean employees doing more work for the same salary, a shift that affects take-home value even if the number on a payslip stays the same.
For foreign workers in Germany, understanding how working-time rules interact with employment contracts, visa conditions and collective agreements is essential. Working hours are typically governed by both the law and — where applicable — collective bargaining agreements (Tarifverträge). Any change at the industry level could filter through into individual contracts over time.
Unions are strongly opposing the proposal, describing it as an attack on workers' rights. The 35-hour week was not handed down from above — it was won through years of industrial action and negotiation. For union representatives, accepting a longer workweek without additional pay would set a damaging precedent, not just in the car industry but across the broader labour market.
Germany's union landscape is powerful and well-organised. The IG Metall union, which represents workers in the metal and automotive sectors, has historically been one of the most influential voices in German labour relations. Any agreement — or failure to agree — reached in this sector tends to send signals across the economy.
For expats, unions can also be an important resource. Joining a union (Gewerkschaft) is open to workers regardless of nationality, and membership can provide legal support, advice on rights and collective protection if employment conditions are disputed.
If you work in Germany's automotive industry, or in a sector that benchmarks itself against it, this dispute is directly relevant to you. A move to 40 hours without extra pay would effectively reduce your hourly rate, even if your monthly salary appears unchanged. That has implications for your financial planning, your work-life balance, and potentially your visa situation if your residence permit is tied to a specific salary threshold — such as with a Blue Card (EU Blue Card).
It is worth reviewing your current employment contract to understand whether your working hours are governed by a collective agreement or set individually. If they are covered by a Tarifvertrag, changes would need to be negotiated between your employer's association and the relevant union — your employer cannot simply impose longer hours unilaterally.
If you are unsure about your rights under German labour law, consulting a lawyer who specialises in employment law (Arbeitsrecht) or contacting your union is advisable. The relevant government body for labour standards in Germany is the Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs (Bundesministerium für Arbeit und Soziales — BMAS).
Not unilaterally, in most cases. German labour law and, where applicable, collective bargaining agreements (Tarifverträge) set limits on working hours and the conditions under which they can change. If your contract specifies 35 hours and your employer is bound by a collective agreement, changes would need to go through the proper negotiation process. Always check your individual contract and seek advice from your union or an employment lawyer if you are uncertain.
The ongoing dispute has not resulted in any legal change yet. However, if your Aufenthaltstitel or EU Blue Card is linked to a minimum salary, any effective reduction in your hourly rate — even without a change to your nominal salary — may be worth discussing with your Ausländerbehörde or an immigration adviser to understand potential implications for your specific situation.
Yes. Union membership in Germany is open to all workers regardless of nationality or residence status. Joining a union relevant to your industry can give you access to legal advice, collective protection and representation in disputes with your employer.
The debate over Germany's working hours is still unfolding, and no changes have been agreed upon. However, it is a situation worth monitoring if you work in the automotive sector or in any industry that closely tracks its labour standards.
In the meantime, take a moment to review your employment contract and understand whether your working hours and pay are protected by a collective agreement. If you have questions about your rights, reach out to your union or an employment lawyer specialising in Arbeitsrecht. For questions about how any future changes might interact with your residence status, your Ausländerbehörde is the appropriate contact.
Source: dw_english
Want news like this in your inbox?
The most relevant news for expats in Germany, no noise.
Thousands rallied outside Germany's parliament against planned cuts to renewable energy subsidies. Here is what the protests mean for workers in the sector.
A Berlin AI startup shows it is possible to succeed globally from Germany, but many companies still face obstacles. Here's what expat founders should know.
Germany's parental allowance is generous but complicated for freelancers. Here's what self-employed expats need to know before applying for Elterngeld.
