Part-time work is part of the routine for about two-thirds of university students in Germany. In addition, working can help international students experience the local culture and customs. In this article, you will find information about working as a student in Germany, either to supplement your income or to gain professional experience.
Regulations for international students:
First, Brazilian students need a residence permit, a process that we explain in detail in the article about the visa for Brazilian students in Germany.
German immigration law determines that foreigners with a student visa can work under the following conditions:
- Up to 120 full-time or 240 part-time days per year. However, they are not allowed to work as self-employed or freelancers;
- To work, students require a permit from the Federal Employment Agency (Agentur für Arbeit) and the German Immigration Office (Ausländerbehörde);
- Some universities allow their students to work only 20 hours a week. But during vacations, they can work full time if they wish.
What are the most common job opportunities?
- Mini-jobs | As the name implies, this category has a low workload, around 45 hours a month. A mini-job is usually found in small businesses.
- Student Assistant at Universities | In the student assistant position, also known as Hiwis, the student works directly in their course area. Activities include helping professors in their actions or scientific research, mentoring other students, working in the library, or even as a kitchen assistant.
- Side jobs | This model allows students to work up to 20 hours a week. Usually, the most appreciated positions are those of bartender or waiter because they are better adapted to the university schedules and offer the possibility of receiving tips.
Remuneration
In 2022 the minimum wage in Germany will be adjusted twice: since January 1, it has been 9.82 euros per hour. From July 1 it will be 10.45 euros an hour. However, this amount can vary depending on the student’s skills and the city where they live. For example, wages can be higher in higher living costs, such as Munich and Hamburg.
The average hourly wage is often slightly higher for academic assistants, production assistants in industry, or service workers at trade fairs.
How to find a job as a student?
- At German universities, you will find bulletin boards full of brochures with vacancies intended for students. Depending on your skills and expertise, you can find many opportunities with flexible hours.
- Most academic institutions have Career Centers; departments specialized in helping students find jobs at partner companies.
- Platforms such as Jobmensa and Indeed also bring together various employment opportunities.
- Also, always remember good old-fashioned networking! Anywhere in the world, asking friends and colleagues for tips can be the way to an opportunity.
And how do taxes work in Germany?
Students can work up to 20 hours per week and receive a maximum of 450 euros per month tax-free. If they exceed the working hours and salary limit, they will contribute to the state social security system. Still, they will split the contribution with their employer.
Germanics Tip
Remember that your studies are the priority in an academic exchange. Therefore, working more than allowed by German law will result not only in higher tax payments but also in less time dedicated to educational activities, which may compromise your performance.
Germanics Mentoring will guide you through the entire process to realize your dream of studying and living in Germany. Contact us to learn more about our services.
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