Requirements for educational leave in Hesse

• Minimum number of hours: The language course must include at least 30 lessons of 60 minutes per week.

• Duration of educational leave: In Hesse, employees are entitled to 5 working days of educational leave per year, or 10 working days within two years.

• Course structure: As a rule, the course must take place on five consecutive days, but at least on three consecutive days. Two blocks are also possible, provided each block lasts at least two days and both are completed within eight weeks.

• Recognition of the course: Only courses recognised by the Hessian Ministry of Labour, Family and Health can be claimed as educational leave. An overview of recognised courses is available on the Ministry’s official website.

Recognition of language courses

Language courses that are to be recognised as educational leave must meet certain criteria:

• Course provider: The language course provider must have provider recognition granted by the Hessian Ministry of Labour, Family and Health.

• Course content: The course must teach content that serves professional development and not merely leisure activities or private interests.

• Proof: Participants must provide appropriate proof of attendance and successful completion of the course.

It’s advisable to check directly with the provider before enrolling in a language course whether it meets the requirements for recognition as educational leave in Hesse.

Application

• Deadline: The application for educational leave should be submitted to your employer at least 6 weeks before the course starts.

• Documents: The application should include proof that the course is recognised, as well as information on the course content and duration.

• Approval: The employer may refuse educational leave only for compelling operational reasons. Any refusal must be made in writing.