Bildungsurlaub vs. Fortbildungsurlaub: Your rights and how to use them smartly
What’s the difference between Bildungsurlaub and Fortbildungsurlaub?
Although the terms sound similar, they have different legal meanings:
Bildungsurlaub (educational leave):
A legal entitlement in most German federal states (except Bavaria and Saxony).
Allows paid leave of up to 5 days per year (or 10 days over two years).
Purpose: personal, political, or professional development.
The training does not have to be directly related to your current job.
Fortbildungsurlaub (leave for professional training):
Not a general legal right; it depends on your employment contract or company agreements.
Purpose: strictly professional upskilling that serves the employer’s interests.
Often part of internal training programs.
Am I entitled to Bildungsurlaub?
Yes, if:
you work full-time,
you have been in your current job for at least 6 months,
and you work in a state that has a Bildungsurlaub law (e.g., Berlin, Hamburg, North Rhine–Westphalia, etc.).
Note: You may refuse a course if it is not officially recognized by your state.
How to use Bildungsurlaub smartly
Choose a course officially recognized in your state (search for: “recognized for Bildungsurlaub in [state]”).
Submit your request at least 6 weeks before the course starts.
Connect the course indirectly to your job (even personal development like language or communication skills can fit).
Don’t tell your employer you’re traveling—this is a legal entitlement, not a private vacation.
What if my request is rejected?
For Fortbildungsurlaub, the employer may refuse because it is not mandatory.
For Bildungsurlaub, refusal must be justified (e.g., urgent operational reasons) and can be challenged legally.
Summary
| Item | Bildungsurlaub | Fortbildungsurlaub |
|---|---|---|
| Legal obligation | Legal right in most states | Depends on company policy |
| Duration | 5 days per year | Not officially fixed |
| Pay during leave | Paid as usual | Depends on agreement |
| Type of training | General (languages, soft skills…) | Strictly job-focused |
Important tip:
Even if you’re unsure your manager will approve it, submit an official Bildungsurlaub request—it’s your right. Many employees lose it every year simply because they don’t know they can develop themselves during official working time.
Note: The editorial team strives to provide accurate information through extensive research and multiple sources. However, errors may occur or some information may be uncertain. Please treat this as initial guidance and consult the responsible authorities for confirmed information.
