The Emergency Leave Letter is a crucial document in German employment relationships, used when an employee needs to take immediate leave due to unexpected personal circumstances or emergencies. This document is fundamental in complying with German labor law requirements, particularly Section 616 of the German Civil Code (BGB), which provides for temporary leave with continued payment in cases of personal impediments to work. The letter serves multiple purposes: it formally notifies the employer of the emergency situation, documents the leave request, provides essential contact information, and outlines any necessary work handover arrangements. It's typically used in situations such as family emergencies, personal medical crises, or other urgent circumstances that prevent an employee from attending work. The document should be submitted as soon as possible when an emergency arises, ideally before or at the beginning of the absence period.

1. Letter Header: Company letterhead, date, and formal address details of both employer and employee

2. Subject Line: Clear indication that this is an Emergency Leave Letter

3. Salutation: Formal greeting to the appropriate supervisor or HR representative

4. Emergency Situation Description: Clear and concise explanation of the emergency situation necessitating the leave

5. Leave Duration: Specific dates or estimated duration of the emergency leave required

6. Contact Information: How to reach the employee during the emergency leave period

7. Work Handover Details: Brief outline of critical pending work or responsibilities that need attention

8. Closing: Formal closing, signature, and employee details