Employers Must Inform Non-EU Workers of Free Counselling Rights from January 2026
From January 1, 2026, German employers hiring skilled workers from third countries must inform employees about free independent legal counselling services on labour and social law, with fines up to €30,000 for non-compliance.
From 1 January 2026, employers must inform all new non-EU hires about free independent counselling services on labour and social law by the first day of work (Section 45c, Residence Act); failure to do so may carry compliance consequences. The mandatory §45c counselling notice must be provided on day one to avoid €30,000 fines.
What employers need to do:
- Provide written notice to all new non-EU skilled workers on or before their first day of work
- The notice must inform them of free, independent counselling services available through "Faire Integration" and similar state-funded programmes
- Cover labour law issues, residence rights, employment disputes, and social benefits eligibility
- Document that the notice was given
This obligation applies to all third-country nationals (non-EU/EEA) hired for skilled work, including EU Blue Card holders, Chancenkarte holders, and skilled worker permit holders. From January 1, 2026, employers will be obliged under Section 45c of the Residence Act to inform skilled workers from third countries about counseling and support services, including information on labour law issues, residence rights, and potential problems in the employment relationship.
What this means for you: If you're a non-EU worker hired by a German employer, you have a legal right to information about free counselling services on day one of employment. Your employer must provide this—if they don't, it's a violation of German immigration law. Make sure you receive this notice and keep a copy for your records. If you're an employer hiring internationally, ensure HR has updated onboarding procedures to comply by January 1.
Sources
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