Is a German sick note (AU) valid in your country?
A comprehensive guide for expats and temporary residents

Germany’s official sick leave certificate—known as the Arbeitsunfähigkeitsbescheinigung (AU)—is a medical document issued by a recognized doctor to confirm incapacity for work. But what happens if you return to your home country while carrying this document? Will it be legally recognized? And can it be used to justify absence at work or for insurance purposes?
Here is everything you need to know.

What is the AU in Germany?
In Germany, the AU:
• is issued by a licensed doctor within Germany
• is written on an official form in three copies: one for the employer, one for the health insurer, and one for the patient
• includes the start and end dates of work incapacity
• usually does not include a diagnosis (except in special cases for official institutions)

Can it be used outside Germany?
Yes—but its validity depends on the purpose and context:

If you work for a German company and are absent while outside Germany
• it is fully valid, as long as you inform your employer and health insurer before leaving Germany or during travel.
• you should submit the AU immediately (by email or mail) to document your absence properly.

If you are a German citizen or resident and temporarily return to your home country
• it can be used as a medical excuse—especially for authorities, embassies, and universities—though a certified translation may be required.
• it may also be used when requesting visa extensions or submitting official documents to a consulate.

If you work for a non-German employer
• the German AU is not always automatically recognized.
• you should check with your local employer whether a foreign certificate is accepted, especially regarding format and authentication.

Which countries partially recognize the AU?
• European Union: Some countries (such as Austria, Belgium, and France) may accept AU certificates within social/health coordination frameworks.
• Middle East and North Africa: Recognition often depends on the receiving institution; ministries and large organizations may request a sworn translation or consular legalization.

What makes an AU usable internationally?
• the doctor’s official signature and the clinic’s stamp
• clear dates and duration of absence
• the doctor’s number or Praxisnummer
• in some cases, legalization through the German embassy or foreign affairs authorities for court/administrative use abroad

Do you need a translation?
Often yes—especially if you will submit it:
• to universities or schools in your country
• to a non-German employer
• within visa, naturalization, or consular files
• when seeking reimbursement from a local insurance provider
Choose a sworn/certified translator (beeidigter Übersetzer) whenever possible.

When might it be rejected?
• if the duration appears unjustified or unusually long without additional medical documentation
• if the signature or stamp is questioned
• if the employer or insurer was not notified promptly
• in some countries, electronic versions (eAU) may be rejected unless printed and properly certified

Summary
The German AU is a legally strong official document inside Germany, and it can also be used abroad in many situations—provided you meet key conditions: timely notification, translation, and authentication when required. For smoother recognition in your home country, it is usually best to attach a certified translation and submit it to the relevant institution on time.

Note: The writers and editors strive to provide accurate information through extensive research, yet errors or unconfirmed details may still occur. Please treat this content as an initial reference and always consult the competent authorities for confirmed guidance.