International students in Germany can work part-time for up to 120 full days a year. Jobs like research assistant, waiter, or tutor pay €9–€15/hour. Learn about tax rules, visa limits and balancing study with work. Stubard helps students find affordable housing near universities.
Germany is one of the most student-friendly destinations in the world, offering affordable education, rich culture and the opportunity to work while you study. For many international students, finding a part-time job is not just about earning money, it’s about gaining experience, connections and independence.
This guide explains everything you need to know about student jobs in Germany, including legal rules, job options, pay rates and post-study opportunities.
Can International Students Work in Germany?
Yes, you can. Germany allows international students to work part-time while studying, with specific rules depending on your nationality:
- EU/EEA Students: Free to work up to 20 hours per week, same as German students.
- Non-EU Students: Allowed to work 120 full days or 240 half days per year.
During semester breaks, you can work full-time without restrictions.
Part-time jobs in Germany are flexible and help students balance academics with real-world experience.
How to Find a Student Job in Germany
Finding the right job takes time, but with the right strategy, it’s easy to land a suitable role.
Best Ways to Find Jobs
1. University Job Portals: Most universities in Germany have online job boards featuring openings for student assistants, library staff, and research positions.
2. Online Job Platforms: Websites like Indeed, StepStone, and Monster Germany regularly post student-friendly job listings.
3. Networking: Talk to classmates, professors, and student unions — personal referrals often lead to great job opportunities.
4. Job Agencies: Local student job agencies (Studentenwerk) can connect you to flexible part-time roles.
5. Campus Jobs: Working on campus as a tutor, library assistant, or research aide is convenient and often related to your field of study.
Popular Part-Time Jobs for Students in Germany
| Job Type | Average Pay (EUR/hour) | Why It’s Great |
| Waiter/Waitress | €10–€13 | Flexible hours + tips |
| Research Assistant | €12–€18 | Academic exposure |
| Retail Assistant | €9–€12 | Simple and accessible |
| Language Tutor | €15–€20 | Use your native language |
| Library Staff | €10–€14 | Quiet, structured work |
| Delivery Driver | €12–€16 | Flexible evening shifts |
On average, international students earn between €9 and €15 per hour, depending on the role and location.
Work Regulations for International Students
To avoid visa issues, follow the official working limits:
| Work Type | Max Allowed Hours |
| During Semester | 20 hours/week |
| During Semester Break | Full-time |
| Non-EU Students | 120 full or 240 half days/year |
If you exceed 20 hours during the semester, you may have to contribute to social security, including pension and health insurance.
Always keep track of your hours — violating work rules can affect your visa status.
Taxes and Insurance for Student Workers
- Mini-Job (up to €520/month): No income tax or social security contribution.
- Above €520/month: You’ll need a tax ID and may pay small deductions.
- Health Insurance: Compulsory for all students. Check if your employer includes coverage.
Tip: Always ask your employer about insurance and tax details before starting the job.
Balancing Work and Study
Working part-time is rewarding, but your education should always come first.
Smart Tips to Balance Both:
- Prioritize lectures and assignments before scheduling work hours.
- Use apps like Notion or Google Calendar for time management.
- Work more hours during semester breaks.
- Avoid night shifts before exams or lectures.
Maintaining a healthy routine ensures success both academically and financially.
Benefits of Working Part-Time in Germany
- Gain real-world experience
- Improve German language skills
- Network with professionals
- Learn independence and time management
- Build a foundation for future full-time opportunities
Job Opportunities After Graduation
After completing your studies, Germany allows you to stay and work full-time.
Post-Study Work Visa (18 Months):
- Available to graduates of German universities.
- Lets you find employment related to your field of study.
- Can later lead to a Permanent Residence Permit.
Many international students secure full-time roles at the same companies they worked for during their studies.
Finding Accommodation While Working in Germany
Working part-time means you’ll want housing close to your university or workplace.
Stubard helps international students find verified, affordable, and fully furnished accommodation in major German cities, near universities like TUM, LMU Munich, RWTH Aachen, and Heidelberg.
- Bills included
- Short-term & long-term stays
- Student-safe neighborhoods
Conclusion
Working part-time in Germany offers more than just financial relief; it’s a chance to grow personally and professionally. By understanding the rules, finding the right job and balancing your workload, you can make the most of your student life in Germany.
With Stubard by your side, you can focus on what truly matters — studying, working, and building your dream future in Germany.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can international students work while studying in Germany?
Yes, international students can work part-time in Germany. If you’re from the EU or EEA, you have the same work rights as German students. Non-EU students can work 120 full days or 240 half days per year. During semester breaks, you can work full-time. These jobs help students manage living costs and gain work experience.
2. What are the best part-time jobs for students in Germany?
Popular part-time jobs include waiter/waitress, research assistant, retail staff, language tutor, library assistant, and delivery driver. Campus jobs are also great options because they offer flexible hours and a student-friendly environment. Most students earn between €9 and €15 per hour depending on the job type and city.
3. How much can I earn as a student in Germany?
On average, international students earn €9–€15 per hour in part-time jobs. Research assistant and tutoring roles pay higher, while service and retail jobs pay standard hourly rates. Students working under a mini-job contract (up to €520/month) usually don’t pay taxes, which helps maximize earnings.
4. How many hours can students work per week in Germany?
Students can work up to 20 hours per week during the semester and full-time during semester breaks. Non-EU students must follow the 120 full days or 240 half days per year rule. Exceeding these limits can affect your visa status, so it’s important to track your working hours carefully.
5. Do I need to pay taxes as a working student in Germany?
If you earn less than €520 per month, your job is considered a mini-job, and you don’t have to pay taxes. If you earn more, you’ll need a tax ID and may pay small contributions to social security. Always ask your employer about your tax status before starting work.
6. Can students work full-time during semester breaks?
Yes, during semester breaks, international students are allowed to work full-time without restrictions. This is a great time to earn extra income or gain more work experience. Just remember to stay within your annual work-day limits (120 full or 240 half days) if you’re a non-EU student.
7. How can I find part-time jobs in Germany easily?
You can find student jobs through university job portals, online platforms (like Indeed, StepStone, and Monster), or local job agencies (Studentenwerk). Networking with classmates or professors also helps. On-campus jobs, such as research or library assistant roles, are ideal for balancing studies and work.
8. Is German language necessary for student jobs?
Knowing basic German helps a lot, especially for customer-facing roles like retail, hospitality, or delivery. However, many on-campus or international companies offer English-speaking jobs. Learning even conversational German can improve your chances of finding better-paying roles and help you integrate socially.