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Bildungsurlaub (educational leave) in Hamburg

In Hamburg you are entitled under the Hamburgisches Bildungsurlaubsgesetz (HmbBUrlG) to 10 working days of Bildungsurlaub over two years, paid and on top of your annual leave. You apply to your employer as a rule 6 weeks before the course starts.

Compiled by Bildungszeit from the statute · Law read on 31 August 2026 · Last updated 24 October 2026 · Spotted a mistake? Write to us

Your entitlement

10working days over two years

Waiting period
6 months
Notice period
usually 6 weeks
No reply
not approved automatically

Under the Hamburgisches Bildungsurlaubsgesetz (HmbBUrlG)

How to get your Bildungsurlaub in Hamburg

  1. from month 7

    You are entitled

    As soon as you have worked for your employer for 6 months. The period starts with the calendar year after the employment begins.

    § 6 BiUrlG HA
  2. Course

    A course recognized in Hamburg

    Each course is recognized individually. 10 days over two years (only vocational training, political education or qualification for voluntary activities)

  3. 6 weeks before

    Apply as a rule 6 weeks before the start

    If your course starts on 1 March 2027, hand in your application before 18 January 2027.

  4. Reply

    Your employer replies

    The BiUrlG HA sets no deadline for the reply.

    § 7 Abs. 2 BiUrlG HA
  5. Course week

    You take part

    On full pay, on top of your annual leave.

When does my application have to be in?

Hand in your application to your employer before 18 January 2027

What else applies in Hamburg?

Who is entitled in Hamburg?

Covered: employees, trainees, and sheltered workshop employees.

10 days over two years (only vocational training, political education or qualification for voluntary activities)

The period starts with the calendar year after the employment begins.

Does this apply in small businesses too?

The BiUrlG HA makes no exception for small businesses.

Can I save up days or combine them?

  • Combining: only for vocational training with a certificate

Recognized courses in Hamburg

All 12 courses for Hamburg →

More questions about Bildungsurlaub

Bildungsurlaub in the other states