Employer rejects your leave? What is allowed
You requested leave, and the boss simply says no? The employer may not refuse leave completely arbitrarily. They must generally consider your wishes; they may only reject it for certain reasons.
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Clarify your leave entitlement →Your chances of getting your money back
What you should do now
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1. Ask for the reason for rejection
Have the reason named: are they really urgent operational concerns?
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2. Follow up in writing
Request the leave again in writing and ask for a reasoned decision.
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3. Do not self-authorize leave
Do not stay away on your own authority; that endangers your job.
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4. Get help
For a permanent, unjustified refusal, the works council, union or employment-law advice helps; if necessary the labor court (urgent proceedings).
Frequently asked questions
May my employer simply reject leave?
Not without reason. They must consider your leave wishes and may only reject them if urgent operational reasons or the priority leave wishes of other (more socially worthy of protection) employees stand in the way (§ 7 BUrlG). You do not have to accept an arbitrary permanent refusal.
May I go on leave if it was rejected?
No, under no circumstances on your own authority. 'Self-authorized leave' is a serious breach of duty and can lead to a warning or even summary dismissal. Comply with the approval and clarify the entitlement if necessary via the works council or the labor court, and in urgent cases also in urgent proceedings.
Take action now
We put together the ready-made texts and the right places to contact for you.
General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.