Part-Time Jobs in Germany for International Students

Germany is a popular study destination for international students due to its excellent educational system, reasonable tuition fees, and plenty of personal development chances. For many students, doing part-time jobs is an essential component of their study abroad experience. As a matter of fact, around two-thirds of German students work jobs in addition to their studies, providing them with additional income and opportunities to advance their education.

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Like other EU nations, Germany has reasonable living expenses. But many overseas students take part-time jobs because they need the extra cash. Students might find plenty of work options in Germany.

Note: Beginning on January 1, 2023, international students will require around 934 EUR per month, or roughly 11,208 EUR annually, to cover their living expenses.

Can I Work Part-Time in Germany as an International Student?

There are different norms and regulations in Germany regarding part-time work for different students. Students from Switzerland and other EU/EEA nations are eligible for the same part-time employment options as students from Germany. Throughout the semester, they are able to work up to 20 hours each week.

What Regulations Apply to Students From Non-EU/EEA Nations?
There are several unique requirements that apply to students from nations other than Switzerland and EU/EEA member states.

If you fall within this group, bear the following in mind:

limited hours of operation. Only 120 full days or 240 half days may be worked in a given year.
few work opportunities. You are not permitted to work for yourself or as a freelancer.
Unique Authorization. You should get authorization from the local employment agency (Agentur für Arbeit) and the foreigners’ registration office (Ausländerbehörde) if you wish to work longer hours than what is permitted.
pupils in language courses. Working during recess times is only permitted for international students enrolled in language or preparation courses with approval from the Immigration Office and the Federal Employment Agency.
Students who live in locations with low unemployment rates are typically given permission to work longer hours.

Where Can International Students Search for Part-Time Jobs?

Depending on the kind of work that businesses are offering, job vacancies can be located in a variety of locations, such as online job portals and university bulletin boards. When looking for work, it’s critical to be vigilant as you never know when an opportunity may present itself.

The following are some locations where you may search for a student job:

University Bulletin Board

The university bulletin board is a great resource for finding student jobs while you’re in university. These boards are usually filled with flyers advertising various job opportunities, including those with flexible hours that are ideal for university students. Depending on your skills and interests, you can discover plenty of part-time job options on the university bulletin board.

University Career Centres

Universities typically have career centers dedicated to helping students find part-time jobs. These centers stay connected with industries and employers, staying updated on job opportunities. Students can schedule appointments with them to discuss their skills and qualifications, exploring available job options.

Online Job Portals

If you’re a student seeking part-time work in Germany, online job portals are a helpful resource. Employers post job listings on these platforms, making it easy for students to find and apply for suitable positions. Job portals offer a wide variety of job opportunities, with clear skill requirements specified. This allows students to quickly identify if they qualify for a job before applying.

Friends and Fellow Students

It’s a good idea to ask friends, classmates, or anyone you know if they’ve heard of any job openings. While it may not always work out, sometimes they can come through with helpful leads. When your friends know you’re looking for a job, they’ll keep an eye out and let you know if they hear of any hiring opportunities. It’s always worth trying out all the available options.

What Types of Job Opportunities Are Available for International Students? 

In Germany, international students may choose to work part-time in a wide range of industries. From waiting at bars or filing documents in offices to working at the university as an academic assistant, there are numerous options available. A fitting part-time job opportunity would be one that is somehow related to their field of study.

How Much Do Student Jobs in Germany Pay?

Student jobs in Germany pay enough for a student to earn an extra income or extra pocket money. However, they do not pay enough to cover all living expenses.  

Currently, the minimum wage for international students in Germany is 9.60 per hour, and it is usually adjusted every two years. On average, students in Germany typically earn around 10 to 15 euros per hour. There are many factors that determine how much students will earn while working in Germany. 

Some of the most common factors include the following:

• Students’ skills and qualifications. 
• The certain industry earnings. In industries like production, academic institutions, as well as trade fairs, the pay per hour is typically higher than the minimum wage.
• Regional labor market. There are jobs that pay higher amounts while other industries might pay less. 
• The German city you are working in. What this means is that in larger German cities, you might find a job that pays more in comparison to the same job in a smaller German city. 

Are International Students Who Work Part-Time Required to Pay Taxes?

Students working in student jobs can earn up to 450 EUR per month without being subject to taxes. If you consistently earn more than 450 EUR per month, you will need to apply for a tax number. So, a portion of your monthly wage will be taken out, but you can get it back by filing a tax return at the end of the year.

Are Students in Germany Required to Pay Social Security Contributions? 

You will be eligible for social security contributions payment if you are permanently employed in Germany. This includes payments for health insurance, nursing care insurance, pension, and unemployment insurance. 

If you work for less than two months or approximately 50 days, you are not obligated to pay social security contributions. However, if your employment extends beyond this period, you will be required to have pension insurance.

What Are the Benefits of Working Part-Time as an International Student in Germany?

Working part-time as an international student in Germany has several benefits. 

Some of the main benefits include the following:

• Financial support.
• Independence and self-reliance.
• Cultural integration. 
• Professional development.
• Networking opportunities.
• Time management skills.
• Cultural exchange.
• Enhanced resume.
• Gain experience.
• Kick-start your career.

Are There Any Language Requirements for International Students to Work Part-Time in Germany?

In general, there are no specific language requirements for international students to work part-time in Germany.

However, the language requirements may vary depending on the job and the employer’s preferences. Some jobs may require a certain level of proficiency in German, especially if they involve direct interaction with customers or require specific language skills.

Can International Students Work Full-Time During Semester Breaks in Germany?

Yes, international students in Germany are generally allowed to work full-time during semester breaks, including summer, winter, and other official breaks.  

During these breaks, students are not limited by the usual restrictions on weekly working hours, which are typically set at 20 hours per week during the semester.