Digitale Krankmeldung (electronic sick note) process

Overview

Use this when you are too ill to work and your employer uses digital HR systems. Doctors send eAU (electronic sick notes) directly to insurers since 2023—employers retrieve them digitally.

Timing to be aware of

When triggered

Reference only — your timing may differ. Confirm with the relevant office.

What you'll need

• Doctor's appointment
• employer's HR system

Common questions

Questions people often look up at this stage. Answers are general — confirm with the relevant office or a qualified professional.

• Does it cost more to see a doctor in Germany if I'm not from the EU?
• I just arrived and my card hasn't arrived. Can I see a doctor today?

Related events

• Confirm health insurance continuity during unemployment
  Critical
  On employment end
• Fahrverbot (driving ban) response
  Critical
  When triggered
• Health insurance transition (employment to unemployment)
  Critical
  On employment end
• Confirm social insurance registration (health, pension, unemployment)
  Critical
  14 days after employment start
• Annual eligibility check for private health insurance (PKV)
  High
  Annually