Start a contract review with the actual documents: the offer, contract, appendices and any applicable collective or standard employment contract (GAV/NAV). This checklist helps identify open questions. It does not replace individual legal advice.
1. Record pay components
Clarify which fixed and variable components are promised and which agreement they rest on. Have any 13th-month salary, bonus conditions, workload and payment arrangements stated clearly. Without these details, an annual salary alone does not tell you what the monthly payments will be.
2. Distinguish working hours and extra work
Contractual overtime (Überstunden) exceeds agreed working hours; statutory overtime (Überzeit) exceeds the statutory maximum. Different rules apply. A clause including contractual overtime in salary therefore does not allow a blanket conclusion about statutory overtime. Check the SECO overtime FAQ and ask about recording and compensation.
3. Check probation
For indefinite private-law employment, the first month is generally probationary. Written agreements, a GAV or NAV may provide otherwise. Fixed-term contracts do not automatically have a statutory probation period. Check its duration, notice period and special rules using the SECO termination FAQ.
4. Read the notice period and termination date
Distinguish the length of notice from the date on which employment may end. Check agreed departures and applicable GAV/NAV rules; statutory default periods do not apply regardless of them. A contractual change is not effective merely because one party wants it.
5. Understand holidays in weeks and working days
The statutory minimum is generally four weeks per year of service, or five weeks until the 20th birthday. The number of working days depends on how your working week is distributed. Compare the contract with the SECO holidays FAQ.
Fictional example: The offer states an annual salary, while the contract also mentions a variable bonus. Ask which amount is guaranteed and what conditions apply to the bonus, rather than adding both amounts as certain pay.
Clarify open points before signing
Record your question and the answer for each unclear clause. Request an understandable explanation; seek suitable advice if you have legal doubts. Keep the version actually agreed.
