Germany has become one of the top study destinations in the world, offering world-class education, affordable tuition, and globally recognized degrees. But beyond academics, many international students are drawn to Germany for another reason — the opportunity to work part-time while studying.
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In 2025, Germany continues to welcome hundreds of thousands of international students, and with it, comes access to legal part-time jobs that not only help cover living costs but also provide valuable work experience.
Can International Students Work Part-Time in Germany?
Yes. International students in Germany are legally allowed to work part-time while studying. However, there are specific rules you must follow:
If You’re a Non-EU/EEA Student:
- You can work 120 full days or 240 half days per calendar year
- You don’t need a separate work permit
- You can also work as a student assistant or research assistant at your university without affecting your day limit
- Freelancing or self-employment is not allowed under a student visa
If You’re an EU/EEA Student:
- You can work up to 20 hours per week during the semester just like German students
- You have unrestricted access to the job market, with the same rights as local students
Benefits of Working Part-Time as a Student in Germany
- Earn extra income to cover rent, groceries, and transport
- Gain German work experience for your CV
- Improve your language and communication skills
- Build a professional network for post-graduate job opportunities
- Learn more about German work culture and lifestyle
Most part-time student jobs are flexible and designed to fit around class schedules.
Average Salary for Student Jobs in Germany (2025)
In 2025, the minimum wage in Germany is €12.50 per hour, but many student jobs pay higher depending on the city and the type of work.
- Typical hourly wage: €12.50 – €16.00/hour
- Monthly earnings (10–20 hours/week): €500 – €1,000/month
- Student jobs under €538/month are tax-free (Minijob)
- Working more may require you to pay taxes or social contributions
Popular Part-Time Jobs for International Students
Here are some of the most common and accessible job types available for international students in Germany:
- Student Assistant (HiWi) at University
- Assist professors with research, grading, or administration
- Often posted directly on campus boards or university websites
- May require basic German or academic experience in your field
Pay: €12 – €16/hour
- Retail or Supermarket Staff
- Work as a cashier, stock assistant, or sales clerk
- Roles available in supermarkets, clothing stores, and pharmacies
Pay: €12.50 – €14/hour
Tip: Some stores hire English speakers in larger cities
- Waiter/Waitress in Cafes or Restaurants
- Popular among students for flexibility and tips
- Evening and weekend shifts are common
- Basic German usually required
Pay: €12 – €13/hour + tips
- Warehouse or Delivery Helper
- Part-time roles with companies like DHL, Amazon, or local logistics firms
- Requires physical stamina
- Night shifts and weekend bonuses available
Pay: €13 – €16/hour
- Call Center Agent or Customer Support
- Answering queries or assisting customers (phone, email, or chat)
- Some roles are English-speaking only, especially for international clients
Pay: €13 – €15/hour
- Babysitting or Tutoring
- Flexible jobs with families or agencies
- Tutoring in English, Math, or Science is in high demand
- Babysitting often arranged privately
Pay: €12 – €20/hour depending on subject or responsibility
- Promotional or Event Jobs
- Handing out flyers, attending expos, or working at trade fairs
- Usually short-term gigs on weekends
- Easy to get started with minimal German
Pay: €13 – €17/hour
Where to Find Part-Time Jobs in Germany
You can find student jobs through:
- University Career Centers or notice boards
- Online platforms like:
- Indeed.de
- Jobmensa.de
- StepStone.de
- Zenjob.com
- StudentJob.de
- Facebook groups (e.g., “Jobs for Students in Berlin”)
- Company websites of large retailers, delivery services, or startups
Pro tip: Use keywords like “Werkstudent,” “Minijob,” “Teilzeit,” and “Studentenjob” when searching.
Required Documents for Student Jobs
To get legally hired, you’ll need:
- A valid student visa/residence permit
- Enrollment certificate from your university
- Tax ID (Steuer-ID) – you get this after registering your address in Germany
- Social security number
- Bank account (to receive your salary)
- Sometimes, health insurance confirmation
Employers will also ask for your working hour limits if you’re a non-EU student.
Legal Limits and Tax Rules
Here’s what you should know to stay compliant:
- If you earn less than €538/month, you don’t pay taxes (Minijob)
- If you earn more, taxes are withheld, but you can file for a tax refund
- Working more than 20 hours/week during the semester may affect your visa
- Semester breaks allow you to work full-time temporarily
Be sure to check your employment contract and stay within your legal working hour limits.
Tips to Get Hired Faster
- Start looking for jobs as soon as you arrive
- Polish your CV and cover letter in English and German
- Highlight language skills and reliability
- Be flexible with shifts (evenings/weekends are often preferred)
- Network with other students — many get jobs through referrals
In major cities like Berlin, Munich, Frankfurt, Cologne, and Hamburg, jobs are more competitive, so start early.
Balancing Work and Study
Working part-time is manageable, but your main focus must remain on your studies. German universities expect students to pass exams on time, and overstaying your degree timeline can affect your visa.
Tips to manage both:
- Avoid working more than 15–20 hours/week
- Take on weekend or evening jobs that don’t clash with class hours
- Use semester breaks to earn more or work full-time
- Prioritize jobs that help build your language skills or professional network
Can You Stay After Graduation?
Yes. After graduating, international students can apply for a residence permit valid for 18 months to find full-time employment in their field. During this period, you can work any job.
Once hired full-time:
- You can convert to a Skilled Worker Visa or an EU Blue Card
- You become eligible for permanent residency after a few years
- You can eventually apply for German citizenship
Conclusion
Germany not only offers a world-class education, it offers the financial independence and real-world work experience that international students need to thrive.
With part-time jobs paying up to €1,000/month, full legal support, and access to future work opportunities, 2025 is the perfect year to make your study-abroad dream a reality.
Start your journey today. Study, earn, grow and build your future in Germany.