Loans During
Probation Period
The 6-month Probezeit is when you need money most - for relocation, furniture, deposits. But most banks reject applications during probation. Here are your real options.
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The Hard Truth About Probezeit Loans
Why Banks Reject Probation Period Applications
During the 6-month probation period in Germany, either party can terminate employment with just 2 weeks notice. Banks see this as high risk - you could lose your income at any moment.
Standard installment loans (Ratenkredite) are approximately 99% impossible to obtain during Probezeit from traditional banks. This is a knockout criterion in most automated underwriting systems.
Your Realistic Options During Probation
| Loan Type | Feasibility | Amount | Interest |
|---|---|---|---|
| Installment Loan (Ratenkredit) | Very Low | High amounts | 3-7% APR |
| Overdraft (Dispo) | Medium | 1-3x salary | 10-14% APR |
| Mini Loan (Kleinkredit) | High | 500-1,000 | High fees |
| P2P Lending (Auxmoney) | Medium | 1,000-50,000 | 5-15% APR |
| Loan with Guarantor (Burge) | Medium | Varies | Standard rates |
Best Strategy
Wait until Day 1 of Month 7 (after probation officially ends) to apply for a standard installment loan. Your approval chances jump from nearly 0% to normal levels.
Emergency Cash During Probezeit
Dispositionskredit (Overdraft)
Banks may approve an overdraft facility (Dispo) during probation if you have regular salary deposits. Typically 1-3x your monthly net salary.
- Flexible borrowing
- No fixed repayment schedule
- Higher interest (10-14% APR)
- Risk of debt trap
Minikredit / Kurzzeitkredit
Short-term mini loans (500-1,000) from providers like Vexcash or Ferratum have lower requirements and faster approval, even during probation.
- Quick approval (minutes)
- Small amounts only
- Very short terms (30-60 days)
- High effective interest
P2P Lending Platforms
Platforms like Auxmoney use different criteria than banks. They evaluate cash flow and other factors, making approval during probation more possible.
- More flexible underwriting
- Higher amounts possible
- Higher interest rates
- Private investors fund loans
Loan with Guarantor (Burge)
If you have a trusted person in Germany with stable income and good credit, they can act as a guarantor (Burge) to secure your loan.
- Standard interest rates
- Guarantor takes legal responsibility
- Requires strong relationship
- Guarantor needs excellent credit
Probezeit Loan FAQ
How long is the probation period in Germany?
The standard probation period (Probezeit) in Germany is 6 months. During this time, both employer and employee can terminate with 2 weeks notice. Some contracts may have shorter probation periods.
Can I get any loan at all during probation?
Yes, but options are limited. Overdrafts, mini loans, and P2P platforms are your best chances. Traditional installment loans from banks are nearly impossible to obtain during Probezeit.
What if my probation is extended?
If your employer extends probation, you remain in the high-risk category for banks. Wait until probation is officially completed before applying for standard loans.
Is it different for expats/foreigners?
Foreign workers face double barriers: probation period AND visa restrictions. However, the same alternative options (Dispo, mini loans, P2P) apply regardless of nationality.