Glossary

In English: Dismissal

The company ends the contract alone. It must be on paper with an original signature. An email or a chat message is invalid.

Legal basis

BGB §623. Checked against the statute text on 12 November 2026.

Open the simulator See Kündigung in action: work through a layoff case where it decides the outcome.

This page explains German employment law in general terms. It is not legal advice for your situation. If a layoff affects you, talk to an employment lawyer, your union or your Betriebsrat.