Leading A Double (work) Life? Remote Work And Dual Employment In Germany

There is evidence that a number of employees working remotely during the pandemic have taken on second jobs. What can employers in Germany do if they suspect, or know, an employee has another job?

Introduction

Two salaries with easy working hours sounds like the dream of many employees. For many, working from home has already brought a high degree of flexibility to their working life. Some have used the greater time availability (no commute, etc.) to supplement their salary with a second job. However, if a secondary job is done during the employee's main job working hours, this can have significant consequences. We examine the question of whether and in what circumstances secondary employment working remotely is permissible and what an employer can do in response to it.