The International Payroll & HR Service Provider
That Speaks Your Language

At IRIS FMP, we can simplify German payroll and the processes around hiring employees in Germany. As a trusted and reliable global payroll and HR specialist, including 88 in-country teams, we have the knowledge to ensure your employees overseas get paid on time, every time.

Navigating the challenges associated with global payroll and HR in Germany can seem difficult without expert guidance. As compliance is a top priority for many businesses, we will support you throughout a global expansion. With different laws, cultures and regulations, it can feel overwhelming to stay on top of it all. Fortunately, our expert teams are here to support your global business. We offer:  

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    German Payroll & Tax

    We remove  the complications of international payroll and tax by managing everything, including – pay to benefits, and more. Through our payroll and tax support, your growing workforce can ensure accurate pay days, on-time, every time.  

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    Hiring Employees in Germany  

    Our HR services are trusted by companies, where we support your business when it comes to the legislation and laws around hiring and managing employees in Germany.

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    Employment Law Compliance in Germany

    Partner with us to seamlessly and compliantly onboard your organization’s new hires. As an in-country specialist, we will cover contracts, policies, handbooks and more.

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    Global Payments Services

    We are able to provide compliant, globally-focussed payment services for all kinds of industries. This will make your cross-border transfers cost-effective.  

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    Location Data

    Name
    Germany FlagGermany
    Region
    Europe (Central Europe)
    Population
    83240525
    Calling Code
    49
    Capital
    Berlin
    Timezone(s)
    UTC+01:00
    Timezone in Capital
    (europe/berlin) 5:27 AM
    Currency
    Euro (EUR)
    Main Language
    German(Deutsch)
    Other Business Languages
    German, English
    Tax Year Start
    1st January
    Tax Year Start
    31st December

    Details correct at time of publication. You should not rely on these details without first seeking professional international advice.

    A trusted advisor for global expansion

    We support businesses in 135 countries worldwide to reach their expansion goals.

    Doing Business in Germany

    If you’re thinking of expanding your business to Germany, you’re in good company – 22,000 foreign enterprises have established businesses there. As Europe’s largest national economy and one of Europe’s most cost-effective production locations, Germany presents endless opportunities for growth. Among the country’s main exports are cars and vehicle parts, medical goods and aircraft machinery.

    Part of the reason for Germany’s historic economic success is its proximity to other wealthy European nations. The country is bordered by the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, France, Switzerland, Austria, Czechia, Poland and Denmark, revealing its central position within the continent. Germany also has a famously reliable public transport network, and 31 airports. The largest airport, Frankfurt International Airport, offers flights to more than 300 destinations in almost 100 countries.

    Business owners who feel that expansion into Germany is the right move for their company will need to ensure the business is payroll and HR compliant in Germany. To achieve this, you need an international employment specialist by your side. That’s where IRIS FMP’s HR and payroll services come in.

    Working & Living in Germany

    For information on what it’s like to work and live in Germany, check out our Living & Working in Germany Guide.

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    Employer Must-Dos

    In Germany, the following reports must be submitted to strict deadlines:

    • Social Security Statements (Beitragsnachweise)
    • Withholding Tax Statements (Lohnsteueranmeldung)
    • Accident Insurance (Berufsgenossenschaftsmeldung)

    Payroll Taxes in Germany

    What tax considerations are there?

    In Germany, the tax system can be quite overwhelming when it comes to maintaining compliance.

    Personal income tax (PIT)

    In Germany, residents are subjected to income tax on their worldwide income, whereas non-residents are only subjected to tax on income derived from within Germany. Income tax is charged at a progressive rate and varies between employees depending on their personal circumstances. Single individuals must pay income tax as soon as they earn more than €9,408 annually, whereas married individuals must pay income tax when they earn more than €18,816. The starting rate for both is 14%, then it increased to 42% and finally 45% for those on the highest salaries.

    There is also a social security system in Germany which is structured and paid in equal parts by employees and employers.

    Corporate income tax (CIT)

    CIT applies to all German companies on their worldwide income, and on foreign-resident companies on their income derived from Germany. CIT is charged at a flat rate of 15%, however, there is an additional surcharge of 5.5% on this. This means the overall corporate income tax rate is 15.825%. In addition to this, there are other taxes businesses are subject to, such as trade and turnover tax.

    Employment Contracts in Germany

    What are the regular working hours in Germany?

    In Germany, there is a lot of flexibility when it comes to working hours. Employees are allowed to work 8 hours a day, with Saturday considered to be a usual working day (48 hours a week). Overtime must be compensated with time off. On Sundays, most businesses are closed with the exception of businesses such as petrol stations.

    Vacation, maternity and sickness

    Those working a five day week in Germany are entitled to 20 days of annual leave, and those working a six-day week are entitled to 24 days. Most employers offer employees between 27 and 30 days annually, however. In addition to annual leave, there are nine national holidays on which employees are not expected to work, depending on their sector. There are additional regional holidays in different areas of Germany also.

    Pregnant employees in Germany are entitled to 14 weeks of maternity leave. Six weeks of this must be taken prior to the birth, and the remaining eight weeks afterwards.

    During the first six weeks of sickness, employees are entitled to time off with full pay. After this, the employee will receive statutory sick pay which is 70%, for a maximum of 78 weeks.

    Termination

    If an employee or employer wishes to terminate the contract, the minimum notice period must be given. This starts at four weeks prior to the 15th of the month.  An employee who is employed for more than 6 months can be terminated only for a reason permitted by the German Termination Protection Act, such as unlawful activity.

    Man reading the FMP global payroll brochure

    Want more information?

    If you want to know more about international payroll and the implications and considerations that come along with it, download our free guide to international payroll today.

    Doing Business in Berlin

    As Germany’s capital and largest city, Berlin is home to around 3.7 million people. Expats from all over the world call Berlin home, and an estimated 40,000 people move there every year. As a multi-cultural, economic hub, it will come as no surprise to learn that Berlin is the fastest-growing city in Germany when it comes to start-up businesses.

    In addition to its varied opportunities, Berlin is attractive because of its relatively low living costs – including low rent –  world-class dining, bustling nightlife and its English-speaking population. Access to generous funding, a growing population, and access to a diverse, skilled workforce makes Berlin an ideal place for setting up a business in Germany.

    Doing Business in Munich

    Those considering opening a business, or expanding an existing business into Munich will benefit from a number of helpful initiatives that are on offer in the city. This begins with the Point of Single Contact (PSC) office, where it is free to make an appointment and ask any questions you may have about doing business in Munich. This service is available in German and English.

    Business-owners also benefit from a relatively low corporate income tax rate and excellent transport connections throughout Germany and beyond. Munich is home to 17 higher education institutes, making it the second-largest university hub in the country. This means employers have access to a varied and talented workforce.

    Doing Business in Frankfurt

    Known as the finance hub of Germany, Frankfurt is a popular business destination among bankers and investors. It’s home to the offices of more than 150 foreign banks, one of the largest stock exchanges in the world, and a number of business consultancy firms. The economic strength of Frankfurt is not the only reason why businesses choose to set up shop in this part of Germany; the city is also in an advantageous strategic location. No destination in Europe is more than a few hours away via autobahn, air, or rail.

    IRIS FMP’s HR and Payroll Services for Germany

    At IRIS FMP, our German payroll and HR services are designed for businesses looking for a legally compliant payroll and HR team who know the ins and outs of German legislation. Whether in Berlin, Munich or Hamburg, we can help tailor a service suited to your business’s needs and requirements. Our cost-effective services include but are not restricted to:

    • Payroll Processing
    • Regulatory Compliance
    • Benefits Administration
    • Handling of payments (salaries & social charges)
    • Pension Administration
    • Payroll Audit Assistance
    • WebCentre Services
    • Legal Entity Services
    • Employment Contracts
    • Business Visa Applications
    • Work Permit Applications
    • Legal Advice/Services
    • Translation Services
    • Assistance with start-up (in link with lawyers)
    • Monthly Master Report
    • Employee Registration with German Health Insurance
    • Tax advice, Bookkeeping & Accounting
    Business professionals in a meeting room

    Stay Compliant – Payroll and HR Services in Germany

    Our specialist in-country teams will help ensure you meet the mandatory requirements of payroll and HR processes in Germany. So, let us help guide the way.