Expat Employment Contract Template for Germany

The Expat Employment Contract is essential for organizations managing international assignments involving German employment relationships. It is used when employing foreign nationals in Germany or sending German employees abroad, ensuring compliance with German labor law requirements while addressing the complexities of international assignments. This document type is particularly important given Germany's position as a major global business hub and the strict requirements of German employment law. The contract covers crucial aspects such as employment terms, remuneration, benefits, tax equalization, social security arrangements, and repatriation terms, while ensuring alignment with German statutory requirements and EU regulations. It is designed to protect both employer and employee interests while providing clear guidelines for the international assignment.

1. Parties: Identification of the employer and employee, including their full legal names and addresses

2. Background: Brief context of the employment relationship, including the basis for the expatriate assignment

3. Definitions: Key terms used throughout the contract, including 'Host Country', 'Home Country', 'Assignment Period', etc.

4. Position and Duties: Job title, role description, reporting lines, and key responsibilities

5. Term and Location: Duration of the assignment, location of work, and any provisions for extension or early termination

6. Working Hours and Leave: Standard working hours, overtime provisions, annual leave entitlement, and public holidays

7. Remuneration and Benefits: Base salary, currency, payment method, bonus schemes, and additional expatriate benefits

8. Tax and Social Security: Tax equalization policies, social security arrangements, and related obligations

9. Relocation and Housing: Relocation assistance, housing allowance, and related support services

10. Insurance Coverage: Health insurance, accident insurance, and other required insurance coverage

11. Repatriation: Terms and conditions for return to home country, including timing and expenses

12. Termination: Grounds for termination, notice periods, and consequences of early termination

13. Confidentiality: Protection of company information and trade secrets

14. Data Protection: Handling of personal data in compliance with GDPR and local regulations

15. Governing Law: Specification of German law as governing law and jurisdiction

16. Entire Agreement: Integration clause and relationship to other agreements