Part-time jobs in Germany

To reduce the cost burden for the family, find more sources for their own interests and needs as well as find opportunities to experience more reality, working part-time has become a familiar story for students both at home and abroad. And of course, in Germany too. Although the cost of living in Germany is relatively affordable compared to other countries in the EU, two-thirds of students in Germany still spend time working part-time while studying and researching, including international students.

Are there any regulations on part-time work for international students in Germany?  

Although Germany still allows international students to study and work part-time, there are still regulations you need to be aware of. If you are a student from the European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland, that means you have the same rights as a German student when it comes to part-time work.

And if you come from other countries, you are only allowed to work up to 120 days a year, if you want to work more than the allowed hours, you should get permission from the local employment agency (Agentur für Arbeit) and the foreigner registration office (Ausländerbehörde). However, the 120-day rule does not apply to student assistants, whose work is not restricted at the university. In addition, international students enrolled in a language or preparatory course are only allowed to work during breaks with permission from the Federal Employment Agency and the Immigration Office. Also, you are not allowed to be self-employed or freelance.

What jobs can international students do to earn extra income?

Some of the most popular part-time jobs for international students in Germany are study assistant, library supervisor, literature researcher, assistant guide, waiter, courier, babysitter, bartender, cashier, and so on. 

Where can international students find part-time jobs?

Job recruiters can post jobs anywhere, as long as you know how to observe and take the time to learn, finding a part-time job in Germany is not difficult at all! Some places where you can find part-time jobs include university bulletin boards, Career centers at universities, online job portals or friends and people around.

How much do students earn in a part-time job while studying abroad?

Students' part-time jobs in Germany is enough for them to earn extra income or pocket money but not enough to cover all living expenses. In general, the current minimum wage in Germany (as of 2019) is 9.19 EUR/hour. In addition, the salary depends on the skills of the student, the industry in which they are working, as well as depending on the regional labor market. 

Do international students who work part-time have to pay taxes?

Students who work part-time can earn up to 450 EUR/month without paying taxes. If you normally earn more than that, you will be asked to get a tax number. It also means that your monthly salary will be deducted a certain amount, but you will be able to get that amount back at the end of the year if you file a tax return.

Do students have to make social security contributions in Germany?

If you work permanently in Germany, you can already contribute to social security in Germany, including payments for health insurance, nursing care insurance, pensions and unemployment insurance. If you work less than two months, you will not have to pay social security contributions.