Festangestellte

Festangestellte (permanent employees) refer to workers who hold an employment contract without a predetermined end date. In German labor practice, festangestellte are typically employed under an unbefristeter Arbeitsvertrag and can work full-time (Vollzeit) or part-time (Teilzeit). They are distinguished from employees on fixed-term contracts (befristete Anstellung) and from temporary agency workers (Leiharbeit), who have contracts with a third party or a set duration.

The legal framework is primarily governed by general labor law and the terms of the individual contract. A probationary period (Probezeit) is common at the start of employment. If the contract is indefinite, Kündigungsschutz (dismissal protection) can apply under the relevant statute, generally after six months of tenure in larger firms; notice periods follow statutory or contractual rules. Festangestellte typically enjoy standard employee rights, including paid annual leave, continued remuneration during sickness, and social security contributions. They may also benefit from collective agreements and company-specific programs on training and advancement.

In practice, permanent employment is the standard form for many roles in Germany and other German-speaking economies. It offers greater job security and long-term planning potential for both employees and employers, but may entail longer notice periods or reduced mobility compared to temporary arrangements.