- International students in Germany can work 140 full days or 280 half days per year, with both models flexibly combined to maximise earning potential.
- English-speaking roles in IT and universities pay €13 to €16 per hour without requiring any German language proficiency.
- Basic German skills (A2-B1) expand job opportunities across retail and hospitality sectors with competitive hourly rates.
Studying in Germany opens doors to academic excellence and practical work experience that shapes your career. International students can legally work part-time while pursuing their degrees, earning between €12.82 and €18 per hour (₹1,340 to ₹1,882) depending on the job sector. This financial support covers living expenses and builds professional skills that employers value globally.
In this blog, we will explore popular part-time jobs in Germany, along with work regulations, salary ranges, and German language requirements to secure employment.
Minimum Wage and Salary Expectations in Germany
Germany’s wage structure offers fair compensation that supports student living costs. Salary levels vary by job type, location, and employer category.
The federal minimum wage stands at €12.82 per hour (₹1,340), confirmed by Germany’s Federal Statistical Office. Skilled positions command higher rates between €15 and €18 per hour (₹1,568 to ₹1,882). Major cities like Munich, Frankfurt, and Stuttgart typically offer 10-15% higher wages compared to smaller towns.
Monthly earnings potential ranges from €800 to €1,200 (₹83,640 to ₹1,25,460) working 15-20 hours weekly. These earnings significantly offset accommodation costs (€300-€500 monthly) and living expenses. Students require approximately €992 per month (₹103,714) to cover living expenses in Germany as of September 2024.
Popular Part-Time Job Sectors for International Students
Certain industries actively recruit international students, offering roles that match various skill levels and language abilities. These sectors provide entry points into the German job market while building professional experience.
| Job Category | Position Examples | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Student Assistant | Research support, library work, administrative tasks | €12-€15 (₹1,255-₹1,568) |
| Hospitality | Waiters, baristas, kitchen helpers | €12.82-€14 (₹1,340-₹1,464) |
| Retail | Shop assistants, cashiers, stock management | €12.82-€13.50 (₹1,340-₹1,411) |
| Tutoring | English/subject tutoring for school students | €15-€25 (₹1,568-₹2,614) |
| IT Support | Software testing, web development, technical support | €15-€20 (₹1,568-₹2,091) |
| Delivery | Food delivery, courier services | €13-€16 (₹1,359-₹1,673) |
| Trade Fairs | Exhibition and conference temporary work | €14-€18 (₹1,464-₹1,882) |
German Language Requirements for Part-Time Jobs
English-speaking roles exist in IT companies, international hotels, and university positions without German proficiency requirements. Basic German skills (A2-B1 level) expand opportunities in retail, hospitality, and customer service sectors. Advanced German (B2-C1 level) unlocks positions in administration, tutoring, and specialised industries with significantly higher pay scales.
Language-Based Job Categories:
| German Level | Available Jobs | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| No German (English only) | IT support, university research, international hotel staff | €13-€16 (₹1,359-₹1,673) |
| Basic (A2-B1) | Retail, cafes, food delivery, warehouse work | €12.82-€15 (₹1,340-₹1,568) |
| Intermediate (B1-B2) | Office administration, customer service, tutoring | €14-€17 (₹1,464-₹1,777) |
| Advanced (B2-C1) | Translation, technical writing, specialised tutoring | €16-€25 (₹1,673-₹2,614) |
Work Regulations for International Students in Germany
Understanding German work laws helps you balance academics and employment without violating visa conditions. The regulations protect student welfare whilst allowing meaningful work experience during your studies.
- Students may work 140 full days or 280 half days per year, and both can be combined flexibly.
- A half day means working up to 4 hours; anything above 4 hours counts as a full day.
- Students can work up to 20 hours per week during the active semester.
- Students may work unlimited hours during semester breaks, typically mid-Feb to early Apr and mid-Jul to mid-Oct (varies by university).
- University roles such as HiWi, research assistant, or teaching assistant are exempt from the 140/280-day limit.
- Mandatory internships required by your degree (Section 16d) do not count towards work restrictions.
Key Takeaways
Germany solves the international student dilemma: quality education without crippling debt. The country’s work regulations let you earn meaningful income—covering housing, meals, and daily costs—without sacrificing academic performance. Work limits stay generous at 20 hours weekly during terms and unrestricted during semester breaks.
What sets Germany apart is job accessibility. English speakers find immediate opportunities in tech and international sectors, earning competitive hourly rates. Basic German opens even more doors. University positions like research or teaching assistants offer the best deal: relevant experience with zero impact on your annual work limits.
This model works because German policy recognizes that financial stress kills academic success. Students here work to live comfortably, not desperately.
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FAQs
Can international students work part-time in Germany?
Yes, international students can work 140 full days or 280 half days annually, flexibly combining both limits.
What is the minimum wage for students in Germany?
The federal minimum wage is €12.82 per hour as of January 2025.
Do I need German language skills to work in Germany as a student?
No, English-only roles exist in IT, university research, and international hotels without German requirements.
How many hours can international students work during semesters in Germany?
Students can work up to 20 hours per week during active semesters without affecting their student status.
Are university assistant jobs counted in the 140-day work limit?
No, university roles like HiWi, research assistant, or teaching assistant are exempt from the 140/280-day limit.
Can international students work full-time after graduation in Germany?
Yes, graduates receive an 18-month residence permit allowing unrestricted work whilst seeking degree-related employment.
Do students pay tax on part-time income in Germany?
Students earning above €556 monthly pay income tax, though most reclaim it annually if total income stays below €12,096.
Can international students do voluntary internships in Germany?
Yes, voluntary internships count towards the 140/280-day limit, while mandatory degree-required internships are exempt.
Is health insurance mandatory for working students in Germany?
Yes, all students must have health insurance, with public insurance costing approximately €110-€130 monthly depending on age.
Can students work remotely for companies outside Germany?
Yes, remote work for non-German employers counts towards the 140/280-day annual work limit.
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