You can work while studying in Germany. Some rules depend on where you come from.Â
We’ve written down some important things you would probably like to know if you’re considering working in Germany during your studies.
Working Hours
- If you come from a non-EU/EEA country, you can work up to 140 full days or 280 half days per year. This totals to a maximum of 20 hours per week. During academic breaks, you can work full-time. If you want to work more than the allowed number of hours you need a special work permit from the Federal Employment Agency and the Foreigner’s Office.Â
- If you’re attending an internship that is a mandatory part of your degree program, it won’t count toward the weekly hour limit.Â
- If you come from an EU/EEA country or Switzerland, you have the same rights as German students when it comes to working while studying. This means that during the academic year, you will also be allowed to work up to 20 hours per week. Whereas, during the holidays, you can work without any restrictions.Â
We recommend you consult with the international office at your university before finding a part-time job. Your university can offer you more information about working in your specific state; plus, they might share with you opportunities they might already have available. |
Top Student Jobs in Germany
There are many part-time jobs available for international students who want to work while studying. Most students usually work as academic assistants, bartenders, cashiers, personal trainers, translators, English teachers, babysitters, promoters, or various roles in media.
Can English-Speaking Students Find Jobs in Germany?
You can find a job, even if you only speak English. In bigger cities like Berlin, Munich and Frankfurt, numerous international companies and startups offer English-speaking roles in customer service, marketing and tech support.Â
There are also on-campus jobs that don’t require German.
Where Can I Look for Work as a Student in Germany?
Check university job portals, student services (Studierendenwerk), online job platforms (Indeed.de, Monster.de, and StepStone.de), company websites (their career pages), job fairs, etc. Also, don’t forget to network and ask your friends if they know of any opportunities!
How Much Can International Students Earn in Germany?
You can only earn up to €556 per month, as of January 2025, without having to pay taxes to the state, according to . That is referred to as having a mini job that is tax-free. If you earn more than €556 per month, you automatically become liable for taxes. Plus, you have to pay social security contributions.
You might not know this but you can work several mini-jobs at the same time in Germany. But, you should make sure not to exceed the allowed working hours limit.
Which Are the Best Cities in Germany to Find Work?
Some of the best cities in Germany for international student jobs include Munich, Hamburg, Berlin, Frankfurt, and Dusseldorf.
Berlin, for instance, is a hub for start-ups and creative roles, Munich is popular for tech and engineering, and Frankfurt excels in finance.Â
Can I Work More Than the Legal Limit as an International Student in Germany?
If you’re working as a student assistant, you can extend your working hours by submitting a request to the Foreigners Office and the Federal Employment Agency. For other fields, you’re generally limited to 20 hours per week, with extra hours allowed only during holiday breaks.
Is German Required to Find a Job in Germany?
Knowing German can definitely open up more opportunities. However, you can find work in Germany even if you are not fluent in German. Many international companies are open to hiring English-speaking students. Don’t give up!
Can I Freelance in Germany?
You can freelance in Germany. Just remember that freelancing often involves extra paperwork, and you might need permission from immigration authorities. If you want to go for it, first make sure you check the local regulations.