Nursing sector updates in Germany regarding salaries and reimbursement deadlines

An analysis of job advertisements from the portal Pflegia reveals variations in salary levels for Germany's approximately 1.8 million nursing professionals across different types of facilities. The study, which examined 12,458 job postings, indicates that the facility type offering the highest general salary level does not necessarily provide the best compensation for every specific qualification level.

Separately, the Federal Ministry of Health has issued a warning regarding new deadlines for reimbursement of respite care (Verhinderungspflege) costs. As of January 1, 2026, a specific deadline applies under § 39 Paragraph 1 SGB XI. Claims for reimbursement must be submitted to the care insurance provider by December 31 of the calendar year following the year in which the respite care took place. This replaces the previous four-year statute of limitations. The deadline is determined by when the care was provided, not by the date on the invoice, meaning late-issued receipts do not extend the period for filing claims.