Unlocking Opportunities: Student Work in Germany
Due to Germany's excellent educational level globally, many students travel to this country for studies every year. One of the advantages of studying in Germany is the opportunity for students to work at all educational levels, allowing them to work full-time for up to 120 days or part-time for up to 240 days during the year. The working conditions for non-European students in Germany involve working with a specific employer in the country, and there is no direct possibility of self-employment for them.
By working in this country, you can significantly cover a part of your study expenses. This opportunity helps students easily manage their study expenses. If you are curious about the conditions of student work in germany and the cost of living in Germany for students, stay with us in the continuation of this article from Monark to provide you with the necessary information.
How to find a job in Germany?
There are various methods for finding student jobs in this country. Job search methods include university job placement, using job search websites, and visiting job placement centers.
In many cases, German universities publish job opportunities on their bulletin boards. Additionally, these opportunities may be announced through the university's website or student associations. If you are interested, you can contact university officials for more information. Common jobs at German universities include:
- Research assistantships;
- Administrative jobs;
- Supervising educational affairs.
Another way to find student jobs is to use job search websites. Today, websites like Indeed make it easy for you to find jobs related to your field of study and apply for them. These websites often provide you with many job opportunities and allow you to find work anytime and anywhere. You can also visit job placement centers in person. Some of these centers also have websites where you can apply for your desired job and take the necessary steps.
What are student jobs like in Germany?
If you want to work as a student in Germany, you must be familiar with the country's working conditions. To obtain a student work permit, you must meet the conditions of this permit. Students from European Union areas or non-European areas coming to study can work for 20 hours per week. In fact, they can work for a full 120 days or part-time for 240 days during the year, excluding official holidays.
One of the most important conditions for obtaining a student work permit is not attending prerequisite courses or language courses. Students enrolled in these courses cannot work as students. Additionally, students coming from countries outside the European Union do not have the possibility of self-employment and freelance activities; therefore, if you intend to do such activities, you must first obtain the relevant permit.
If you want to work more than the specified time as a student, you should consider the additional insurance costs. To obtain a work permit for more than 20 hours, you must obtain the necessary permits from two local employment agency centers and the Foreigners Registration Office. Otherwise, working more than the permissible hours will be considered illegal and may cause problems for you. However, it should be noted that the possibility of working more exists during the break between two terms.
Types of student jobs available in Germany
Students who intend to live, study, and work part-time in Germany can engage in various job fields in this country; however, it is recommended that they work in fields related to their field of study to have a successful and brilliant work history.
Working in restaurants, shops, and stores is one of the common job options for students. These jobs allow students to have a good income to help them cover their educational expenses in Germany.
There are also many job opportunities in the field of commerce and investment. Many companies are looking for students who have the ability to research and analyze fields such as the stock market and other financial markets. In these fields, one can also mention working in stores and other similar job fields where the income rate is usually higher.
Student Jobs in Germany
During their studies, students can find jobs that are directly related to their studies and efforts. Some of the best jobs for students include:
1. Research Assistant at universities, research institutions, and libraries: These jobs provide an excellent opportunity for students interested in research and teaching to gain experience and have direct involvement in their academic field.
2. Waiter/Waitress: Working as a waiter/waitress in restaurants, cafes, or similar service centers not only provides income but also offers an opportunity to develop communication and management skills.
3. Childcare: If students have a good relationship with children, working as a childcare provider in daycare centers or private homes can be a good option. This job provides them with the opportunity to gain experience in childcare and education while also helping them improve their language skills. However, in most German states, a relevant certificate is required.
4. Private Tutor: Students with expertise in their field of study can work as private tutors for school students.
5. Part-time Online Jobs: Working in online jobs such as content creation, graphic design, programming, and social media management are some examples of online work and part-time jobs that can provide a good income for students.
Research work is one of the best options for student jobs because it often aligns with the student's field of study and is conducted in relevant departments at the university.
Finding Student Jobs in Germany
To find a job, you first need to reach an acceptable level of proficiency in the German language. Then the best way to find a job is to contact employment agencies. These agencies are present in all regions of Germany and, based on the abilities and conditions of the applicants, offer suitable jobs to them.
Additionally, universities have special sections called "Studentenwerk" that arrange job placements for students. Students can register their job requests at Studentenwerk offices and eventually find part-time jobs according to their abilities and skills.
Another way to find student job opportunities is to pay attention to university bulletin boards. These bulletin boards display job opportunities as notices and various announcements, allowing students to view different job openings and submit their job applications.
Language Requirements for Student Jobs in Germany
To obtain a work permit and find your desired job, you usually need to be proficient in the German language. For this purpose, you must obtain a German language proficiency at level B1. Although this level allows you to apply for job positions, mastering the language and better communication skills greatly assist you in finding a job in Germany.
Undoubtedly, proficiency in the local language makes you a stronger presence in the job market. Since language is one of the key factors in succeeding in the job market, you should not overlook this important step and upgrade your skills to a desirable level by learning the language.
Best Cities in Germany for Working While Studying
Working and studying conditions are generally similar in most cities in Germany, and there isn't much difference between living and working in these cities. However, some cities in this country are better for student jobs due to their stronger economic growth. The best cities in Germany for working while studying are as follows:
1. Berlin: As the capital of Germany, Berlin has reputable universities that provide many job opportunities for students.
2. Stuttgart: Known as the center of the German automotive industry, Stuttgart offers suitable job opportunities in the automotive industry for students.
3. Düsseldorf: Working conditions in Düsseldorf, especially for skilled professionals, are favorable. With a strong economy, a vibrant job market, and a high standard of living, Düsseldorf offers many opportunities for those interested in working in Germany.
Benefits of Student Work in Germany
Working helps international students cover their living and studying expenses in this country, but that's not the only advantage of student work in Germany. Some other benefits of student work are as follows:
- Possibility of working in English: In Germany, some student jobs are in English, which is a significant advantage for international students who don't have sufficient command of the German language.
Read more: Immigration with the B1 German language level
- Possibility of working while studying at all levels: Students can engage in student work at every stage of their studies (Bachelor's, Master's, Ph.D.), providing them with an opportunity to gain work experience and practical skills.
- Gaining work experience and learning practical skills: Student work provides students with the opportunity to gain work experience in various fields and enhance their practical skills. Such an advantage is very valuable for their future careers.
- Possibility of continuing work in the chosen work environment: Some students can establish direct contact with the German job market by continuing to work in a field related to their area of study after graduation, thereby securing a suitable job position.
- Getting to know the German people and making friends: Student work provides students with the opportunity to get acquainted with the people of Germany, get to know German culture and language, and find new friends and colleagues, which is very valuable for their social and professional life.
Drawbacks of Student Work in Germany
Although working alongside studying in Germany comes with many benefits, it also has its drawbacks. One of the most important problems that students face when working alongside studying is the lack of suitable and available student jobs. On the other hand, some students find themselves struggling to cover all their living expenses in Germany with the income they receive from student work.
Another issue to consider is that although working in English is possible in Germany, mastering the German language is highly important for better communication in many jobs. Learning this language requires time and concentration and is not easy for some individuals, especially if their field of study or work is not in German.
Income from Student Work in Germany
In Germany, students can earn a minimum income of 520 euros per month through student work, but this amount does not include taxes. If your income exceeds this amount, taxes will be deducted automatically from your account. Also, the minimum wage in Germany is currently around 12 euros per hour, which is updated every two years and increases. However, you should note that your wage depends on factors such as your skills, the desired industry, and the labor market conditions of the region.
In some industries such as manufacturing, university institutions, and trade fairs, the income rate from student work is usually higher than usual. Therefore, if you want to receive higher wages and benefits, it is recommended to work in these fields. For example, a research assistant at a university can receive a salary equivalent to 14 to 15 euros per hour, while a language teacher can earn between 17 to 20 euros per hour. Usually, in restaurants, you receive at least the minimum wage, which is 12 euros plus tips per hour.
Work Regulations for International Students in Germany
In Germany, the conditions and regulations of student work are divided into several main sections:
Working hours for student work in Germany
- EU and EEA students can work up to 20 hours per week.
- Students from other countries can work full-time for 120 days or 240 half-days per year.
- Research activities have no time restrictions.
- Working during university preparation courses or language courses is only allowed during holidays and with permission from the authorized employment agency.
Self-employment regulations
- Self-employment is prohibited for international students without permission from the relevant organization.
- The relevant organization must determine whether self-employment interferes with studies. If it doesn't, necessary permits are issued.
Internship regulations
- Internships during breaks between two semesters are counted in the permissible annual days (140 days).
- If you have a mandatory internship, the days worked beyond 140 days are not calculated.
Tax regulations
- Student work income in Germany is tax-free if it is at least 520 euros per month.
- Income above this amount is subject to taxation, and insurance costs must be considered.
- These laws and conditions may vary depending on nationality and type of student work; therefore, it is always better to consult with the relevant authorities.
Legal working hours for working students in Germany
As mentioned earlier, international students from outside the European Union or EEA are allowed to work up to 120 full days or equivalent to 240 half days per year in this country. This work permit is issued to them without the need for confirmation from a recruitment agency or the German central authority.
International students from outside the European Union should note that self-employment or freelancing may not be possible for them. If a student wants to work for more than 120 full days or 240 half days in Germany, they must obtain confirmation from a recruitment agency and the immigration office; however, obtaining this confirmation depends on the labor market situation in the study area.
Final words
More than two-thirds of students in Germany work while studying! This statistic has been published by German university institutions; However, since the employment conditions for students in Germany are not the same for students with the nationality of this country and other individuals, we tried to examine the conditions for everyone in this article. All students in Germany are allowed to work during their studies; however, student work, like other issues in Germany, has its own laws and regulations that students are obliged to follow.
FAQ
What is the hourly limit for student work in Germany for non-European students?
This limit for non-European students is up to 20 hours per week.
How much is the income from student work in Germany?
This income is a minimum of 520 euros per month, tax-free.
What jobs can be chosen as part-time jobs alongside studying?
Engaging in online jobs such as content production, graphic design, programming, and social media management for students are some examples of online jobs in Germany and part-time jobs that have good income.
If I work as an international student with German health insurance, how much income will I have?
Health insurance costs in Germany for migrant students are 120.34 euros (students under 23) and 125.21 euros (students 23 and older) per month.
Do I have permission to work as a student in Germany while studying?
Yes, students from other countries can work for up to 120 full days or 240 half days during the year; however, they are not allowed to engage in self-employment activities.
Does a student's companion have permission to work in Germany?
If someone joins a student as a spouse in Germany, they will have permission to work full time.
How many hours of student work am I allowed in Germany?
Both EU and EEA students can work up to 20 hours per week.
Do I have to pay taxes for student work in Germany?
If your income is more than 520 euros per month, you must pay taxes.
Are there jobs available for English-speaking students in Germany?
In Germany, some student jobs are in English, and these jobs are offered to international students who do not have sufficient command of the German language.
Can I increase my allowable student work hours in Germany? What are the best cities in Germany for student work?
If a student wants to work for more than 120 full days or 240 half days in Germany, they must obtain confirmation from a recruitment agency and the immigration office; however, obtaining this confirmation depends on the labor market situation in the study area. Munich, Berlin, and Stuttgart are the best cities in Germany for student work.
Is finding student work in Germany easy?
Yes, you can easily find student work through recruitment agencies or university announcements.
