Unlimited confidentiality duty after the job ends – valid?
Likely invalid — such a clause does not bind you.
A post-contractual confidentiality clause without time or subject-matter limits is void under BAG case law on § 307 BGB because it effectively restricts the employee's freedom to practise their profession. During the employment relationship loyalty duties apply anyway; afterwards only the protection of genuine trade secrets under the GeschGehG remains (notably § 23 GeschGehG for unlawful disclosure).
What you can do next
Eine zeitlich oder sachlich unbegrenzte Verschwiegenheitsklausel ist unverbindlich. Sie sind nur zur Geheimhaltung echter Betriebsgeheimnisse im Sinne des § 17 GeschGehG verpflichtet.
The law behind it
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General information based on German law and court decisions, checked by lawyers — not legal advice for your individual case.