Germany: Complete Guide to Disability Employment
Legal Framework
Social Code Book IX (SGB IX)
The primary law governing disability employment in Germany, covering:
- Definition of disability
- Employer obligations
- Support services
- Quota requirements
Degree of Disability (GdB)
Disability is measured on a scale of 20-100:
- GdB 50+: Severely disabled (schwerbehindert)
- GdB 30-40: Can be equated with severe disability for employment
The Schwerbehindertenausweis
Official ID card confirming severe disability status, providing access to:
- Employment protections
- Additional leave (5 days)
- Tax benefits
- Public transport discounts
Employer Quota System
Requirements
- Employers with 20+ employees must fill 5% of positions with severely disabled workers