Are you considering working while studying in Germany? It is no news that studying abroad involves huge costs. Finding the right part-time job can significantly ease your financial burden along with enhancing your experience abroad.
Moreover, according to a popular German education information portal, a whopping two-thirds of the students work part-time in Germany while pursuing higher education.
From types of jobs to associated rules and expected salaries, knowing your options is essential for a successful journey. Dive into this guide to uncover everything you need to know about securing part-time work in Germany.
Table of Contents
- Why Students Seek Part-Time Jobs: Managing Costs in Germany
- Benefits of Doing Part-Time Jobs in Germany for Students
- Cost of Living in Germany
- Rules for Part-Time Jobs in Germany for International Students
- How to Find Part-Time Jobs in Germany for International Students
- Type of Part-Time Jobs in Germany with Minimum Wages
- 11 Highest Paying Part-Time Jobs in Germany for Indian & International Students
- Best Part-Time Jobs for Students in Germany: City Wise
- Study in Germany with upGrad Abroad
- Study in Germany
Why Students Seek Part-Time Jobs: Managing Costs in Germany
Living in Germany can be expensive for international students, with monthly expenses averaging around €934. For Indian students studying there, managing these costs can be particularly challenging. Part-time jobs offer a crucial avenue to supplement income, allowing students to cover living expenses independently.
Beyond financial support, these jobs provide valuable experience and exposure to the local culture and work environment. This dual benefit of earning and learning not only supports students financially but also enriches their overall educational experience abroad.
Benefits of Doing Part-Time Jobs in Germany for Students
The German market offers a great working culture for international students, with numerous part-time job opportunities that can ease their lives in Germany.
Here are some key benefits beyond financial support:
- Networking Opportunities: Part-time jobs help international students build valuable professional networks.
- Understanding Work Culture: Students gain first-hand experience of the German work culture.
- Resume Building: Part-time jobs enhance resumes and can lead to potential full-time job opportunities.
- Living Standards: Earning money while studying helps sustain a good living standard in the country.
- Exploring Interests: Students can discover their fields of interest through various part-time jobs.
With these benefits, doing a part-time job in Germany is highly recommended for students pursuing education abroad.
Cost of Living in Germany
Living costs in Germany are relatively affordable compared to the EU (European Union) average, yet international students often seek to earn extra income to cover tuition fees and monthly expenses.
The average monthly living cost for international students in Germany is around €934, or about €11,208 annually. Part-time work in Germany is defined as working less than 20 hours per week .
Students can earn up to €522.50 monthly tax-free. Exceeding this amount requires a tax number, with deductions applied. However, students can reclaim this money by submitting tax returns at the year's end.
Rules for Part-Time Jobs in Germany for International Students
Those looking for part-time jobs in Germany should note all the country’s applicable rules and regulations.
Here are some key pointers worth knowing in this regard:
1) Students from the EU, Norway, Switzerland, Iceland, and Liechtenstein enjoy similar job market rights as German students.
2) Students from other countries must adhere to some exclusive rules and regulations in this regard.
3) Part-time work is limited to 140 full days or 280 half days annually, excluding freelancing or self-employment.
4) Permission is required from local employment agencies and foreign registration offices if you want to work exceeding these limits.
5) International students in preparatory or language courses can work only during recess periods with permission from the Immigration Office and Federal Employment Agency approval.
6) International students working as academic assistants often are not limited to working hour guidelines, but must notify the foreigners’ office regarding the same.
7) Work permits are from the authority or Agentur fur Arbeit, and this permit will have all information about the maximum work limit for a student.
8) Working for less than 70 continuous days over a year will also exempt students from taxation.
9) Working more than 20 hours per week is generally not advisable as it violates university rules in Germany and necessitates payments for health, nursing care, and unemployment insurance. It can also jeopardize your health and academic performance.
10) Compliance with federal laws is mandatory to avoid expulsion.
How to Find Part-Time Jobs in Germany for International Students
Wondering how to find part-time jobs in Germany for international students? There are several avenues through which you can look for part-time jobs in Germany for Indian students.
Here are some tips in this regard:
1) Monitor Job Postings: Keep an eye on both online job boards and physical notice boards where employers frequently advertise openings tailored to students' schedules and skills.
2) Utilize University Resources: Explore university bulletin boards for job flyers and visit career centers that maintain close ties with local employers, offering tailored advice and job opportunities suitable for students.
3) Online Job Portals: Navigate various online job portals catering to part-time positions in Germany, where you can find detailed job descriptions and requirements, allowing you to apply directly based on your qualifications.
4) Network Effectively: Leverage your network of peers, fellow students, and acquaintances to learn about job openings through word-of-mouth referrals. This informal approach can often uncover hidden job opportunities not advertised elsewhere.
5) Federal Employment Agency Support: Visit regional offices of the Federal Employment Agency, which provide specialized job exchanges for students, advertised through educational institution bulletin boards and local classified ads. These resources can significantly enhance your job search strategy in Germany.
Type of Part-Time Jobs in Germany with Minimum Wages
There are numerous part-time jobs in Germany for English speakers and other international students.
The type of part-time jobs students can typically find in Germany include:
1. Academic Assistants
- Library supervisor
- Tutorial assistant
- Literature researcher
2. Off-Campus Jobs
- Waiter/Waitress
- Trade Fairs
- Courier
- Office documents filing
- Media (Students of Journalism)
- Tutoring (Those undergoing teacher training courses)
- Babysitter
- Bartender
- Cashier
Note that working more than 20 hours per week in jobs unrelated to your direct field of study may extend your study permit. Student jobs in Germany typically provide enough money to cover related costs.
As of 2024, the minimum wage for international students is about €12.41 per hour, and this is updated periodically. Pay depends on skills, qualifications, location, and industry, with some jobs paying more than the minimum wages.
Bigger German cities like Munich or Hamburg offer higher pay for part-time work compared to smaller cities, but the cost of living in these cities is also higher.
Research assistants earn well with certain exemptions, and working at the university is a great option if available. The annual earnings limit is around €8,500, which is exempt from taxation or social security contributions.
11 Highest Paying Part-Time Jobs in Germany for Indian & International Students
Living in Germany, here are the best part-time jobs for students in Germany that you can consider when obtaining an education abroad in the country.
Courier
- Job Description: Deliver parcels to different locations. Parcel sizes vary, and you may work alone or with a helper.
- Eligibility: Valid work visa, proficiency in German or English, and a German driving license if a vehicle is provided.
- Salary Range: €12 - €14 per hour.
- How to Apply: Through recruiter websites or by directly contacting companies.
Waiter/Waitress
- Job Description: Serve food and beverages, maintain the dining area, and treat customers courteously.
- Eligibility: A2 German certification, a degree in hotel management, and 2+ years of experience (varies by hotel).
- Salary Range: €12 - €13 per hour.
- How to Apply: Recruitment websites or walk-ins at various restaurants.
Cashier
- Job Description: Handle payment transactions and submit accurate reports.
- Eligibility: High school diploma or relevant degree, basic math skills, and a work visa.
- Salary Range: €10 -€13 per hour.
- How to Apply: Online job portals or through referrals.
Sales Assistant
- Job Description: Greet customers, answer queries, recommend products, and help customers find items.
- Eligibility: Proficiency in German or English, and 2 years of vocational training.
- Salary: €23 per hour.
- How to Apply: Local openings, online searches, or referrals.
Online Translator
- Job Description: Translate texts and speeches between languages, often into German.
- Eligibility: Proficiency in German with certification and knowledge of other languages.
- Salary: €26,000 - €55,000 per year
- How to Apply: Job portals and websites related to foreign businesses.
Personal Assistant
- Job Description: Handle tasks, schedule meetings, deal with clients, and prepare routines.
- Eligibility: Strong communication skills and German language certification.
- Salary: €12 per hour.
- How to Apply: Online hiring websites or directly contacting organizations.
Bartender
- Job Description: Manage the bar, serve customers, and perform minor stunts.
- Eligibility: 10+2 education level and preferably a professional certificate.
- Salary: €10 - €13 per hour.
- How to Apply: Online job portals.
Cleaner
- Job Description: Dust, mop, and clean floors, bathrooms, and residential areas.
- Eligibility: High school diploma and basic knowledge of German (often not strict).
- Salary: €13 per hour.
- How to Apply: Local shops/restaurants or potential workplaces.
Babysitter
- Job Description: Take care of children, ensure their safety, cook meals, and adhere to schedules.
- Eligibility: Freelance visa, relevant experience, first-aid and CPR certification, clean criminal record, and knowledge of child development.
- Salary: €12 per hour.
- How to Apply: Online job portals.
Call Center Operator
- Job Description: Answer calls, sell products/services, update databases, and report conversions.
- Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree and good German speaking skills.
- Salary Range: €11- €12 per hour.
- How to Apply: Online job portals.
Tutor
- Job Description: Tutor students, develop lessons, provide assessments, and improve academic growth.
- Eligibility: Knowledge of the German education system and proficiency in German.
- Salary Range: €12 - €13 per hour.
- How to Apply: Online educational websites and local connections.
These roles offer great opportunities for international students to support their living expenses while gaining valuable work experience in Germany.
Best Part-Time Jobs for Students in Germany: City Wise
Here are the best part-time jobs in Germany along with their average wages* in various German cities.
Part-Time Jobs in Rostock, Germany
Jobs |
Wages |
Content Creator |
€16/hour |
Office Support Assistant |
€960/month |
Part-Time Jobs in Munster, Germany
Jobs |
Wages |
Seasonal Worker |
€14/hour |
Production Helper |
€13/hour |
Part-Time Jobs in Munich, Germany
Jobs |
Wages |
Room boy |
€14.50/hour |
Shipping/Warehouse Employee |
€13.97/hour |
Part-Time Jobs in Stuttgart, Germany
Jobs |
Wages |
Cashier |
€11/hour |
Sales Advisor |
€13/hour |
Part-Time Jobs in Hamm, Germany
Jobs |
Wages |
Pizza Delivery Driver |
€13/hour |
Courier |
€11/hour |
Part-Time Jobs in Hannover, Germany
Jobs |
Wages |
Cleaner |
€13.50/hour |
Tutor |
€15/hour |
Part-Time Jobs in Berlin, Germany
Jobs |
Wages |
Sales Advisor |
€13/hour |
Packer |
€15/hour |
Part-Time Jobs in Kiel, Germany
Jobs |
Wages |
Room Boy |
€1804/month |
Cleaning Person |
€13.50/hour |
*Source: Glassdoor, July 2024
Related Reads: |
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Study in Germany for Free | Germany: A dream study abroad destination | How to get free education in Germany for Indian Students |
Study in Germany with upGrad Abroad
Master in International Management-
A two-year program with the first year involving online study at IMT Ghaziabad and the second year covering on-campus at IU Germany.
Master of Business Administration-
An 18-month course with the first two semesters covering online study at IU Germany and the next one on-campus at IU Germany.
These courses offer significant cost savings on course fees for international students while providing excellent learning frameworks and support with admissions and applications. To know more, get in touch with our counselors.
Disclaimer: All mentioned amounts are indicative, and subject to change at any time.
FAQs
Do international students pay taxes for part-time jobs?
International students can earn up to €522.50 per month without paying taxes. If you earn more, you must obtain a tax number, and a specific amount will be deducted from your wages monthly.
You can reclaim this amount at the end of the financial year by submitting a tax return.
Will social security contributions have to be paid by international students working part-time in Germany?
You are eligible for social security contributions only if you are permanently employed, which includes health insurance, pension, unemployment insurance, and nursing care insurance.
If you work less than three months or roughly 70 days, you are exempt from these contributions. Longer employment durations require pension insurance.
How much can you earn with student jobs in Germany?
Earnings for student part-time jobs in Germany vary by skills and industry.
The average wage is around €12.41 per hour (as of 2024), with higher wages in cities like Munich and Hamburg (where the cost of living is also higher). Some employers may pay above the minimum wage.
Can I work in Germany without speaking the native language?
Yes, you can work in Germany without speaking German by applying for jobs in tech startups and digital departments that don't require language proficiency.
Is it easy to get a part-time job in Germany for Indian students?
Yes, Indian students can easily find part-time jobs in Germany. The country's strong economy offers various professional opportunities, including job roles like research assistants, English tutors, and support staff.
Which city is the best for a part-time job in Germany?
Munich offers the best part-time jobs due to high wages, with other top cities being Berlin, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Stuttgart, and Cologne.
How many hours is a part-time job in Germany?
You can work up to 20 hours per week in a part-time job. The minimum wage is €12.41 per hour, with highly skilled graduates earning up to €15 per hour.
What is the minimum wage in Germany for students?
As a student in Germany, there are various job opportunities available, such as part-time work or internships. The minimum wage for students is around €522.50 per month, as recorded in 2024.
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