Disability disclosure rights in German job applications

In Germany, applicants are not legally required to disclose their degree of disability during the initial application process. However, the social association VdK Deutschland notes that transparency is recommended if a disability is obvious or if specific workplace accommodations are necessary, such as for wheelchair users.

For public service positions, disclosing a severe disability in the application is advised. Public employers are legally obligated to invite severely disabled applicants to interviews, provided they meet the necessary qualifications. To claim this right, applicants should include a copy of their disability certificate with their documents.

Furthermore, employers are legally prohibited from asking about disabilities or pregnancy during job interviews.