Germany is unrivalled when it comes to the rich employment opportunities available to students and graduates. The favourable job market for students and graduates is one of the main reasons why thousands of international students choose to pursue an education in Germany.

Whether you’re looking for a part-time job alongside your studies or a graduate job to kickstart your career, Germany is an attractive option. From beneficial working rights to the student-friendly job market, let’s explore what makes Germany so appealing to those looking for employment in the country.

Student jobs in Germany: Regulations

As a student in Germany, part-time work is a great way to supplement your income and gain valuable life skills and experience. There are many part-time job opportunities for students in Germany across various industries including hospitality, catering and academics.

To pursue student work in Germany, it is important to follow the work regulations that apply to both European Union (EU) students and non-EU students.

EU students have the same working rights as German citizens. They can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and a maximum of 40 hours per week during semester breaks.

Non-EU students studying in Germany can work up to 120 full days or 240 half days per year. Unlike the restrictions on EU and German students, there is no change to the regulations during semester breaks for non-EU students. This means non-EU students can work 2.5 full days per week alongside their studies.

Germany’s working regulations are very favourable to students when compared to other nations which makes Germany an attractive destination for domestic and international students looking to gain a high-quality education and part-time employment during their studies.

Tips for getting part-time jobs for students in Germany

Now you know your working rights as a student in Germany, the next step is to explore the job market and find a job that appeals to you.
So, what are the different types of part-time jobs for students in Germany?

Students can pursue a wide range of part-time job opportunities in Germany alongside their studies. From event staff at major sporting events, festivals and exhibitions to bartending and waiting staff, students can work across a variety of industries. Part-time student jobs in areas such as hospitality, retail, childcare, sales and academics are popular among students who can find employment easily thanks to Germany’s student-friendly job market.

Most students view part-time jobs as an integral part of the study experience, and studying for multiple years, a year or even a semester without an income is not an option for some students. It is important to note that the minimum wage in Germany in 2024 is €12.41 per hour.

The best places to search for part-time student work in Germany are university job boards both online and on campus, online job portals and taking advantage of your university’s career centre which will offer services such as resume and cover letter advice as well as the latest job vacancies. It is also worthwhile talking to various people and asking companies in person if they are currently hiring.

Student work in Germany: Taxes

Another important factor to consider is the German tax system and how to avoid being taxed as a student. Students in Germany can earn up to €522.50 per month tax-free which works out as €6,270 per year. If you earn more than this, you will be taxed and will have to submit a tax return form using your tax number for any claims.

Taxes apply to all students in Germany and must be followed to avoid any punishment or complications. Your university’s career centre can help with any queries about taxes in Germany.

Working in Germany after your degree

As mentioned, Germany offers many opportunities for graduates to find employment after their studies. Many students choose to study in Germany with the long-term goal of securing employment in the country after completing their degree. Because of this, students are encouraged to prepare for their careers during their studies, with final-year students networking and keeping an eye on employment opportunities that may be a gateway to a career in Germany beyond their education.

Graduates from the EU who choose to stay in Germany after their studies have the right to work in Germany without a permit. This means graduates from the EU will receive the same working rights as German nationals and can pursue a career in Germany without any barriers.

Those who stay in Germany after their degree from a non-EU country can take advantage of the 18-month post-study visa. The Germany post-study work permit allows 18 months from the final exam for non-EU graduates to find employment. During the 18 months, graduates can pursue any job before securing full-time employment related to their field of study.

To apply for the 18-month extension of the residence permit, non-EU graduates must submit:

• ID and Passport
• Proof of graduation from a German university
• Proof of health insurance coverage
• Proof of personal finances

There are a few steps to consider after you secure full-time employment such as applying for a German residence permit, known as an EU Blue Card. This is a gateway to applying for a settlement permit after 33 months of holding an EU Blue Card. This will give you the same rights to work as a German citizen.

How to work in Germany after returning to your home country after graduation

If you return home after graduating from a German university, you still have the option to work in Germany under the Jobseeker Visa. This is a six-month visa which allows you to enter Germany and search for full-time employment opportunities related to your field of study.

It is important to note that, unlike the Germany post-study work permit, you cannot work under the Jobseeker visa. Therefore, you must prove you have the necessary funds to live in the country during the six-month visa.

Study in Germany and take your career to the next level

As well as the favourable working conditions for students and graduates, Germany attracts students from around the world thanks to its world-class education system, low cost of living and diverse population. So, what is stopping you from pursuing a degree in Germany today?

The University of Europe for Applied Sciences (UE) is an innovative, future-thinking institution dedicated to providing top-quality education to students from around the world. With a student body representing over 100 nationalities across campuses in Berlin, Potsdam, Hamburg, Iserlohn and Dubai, UE offers a wide range of dynamic programmes with a focus on practice-oriented learning.

Benefit from Germany’s student-friendly job market today by finding your perfect programme here.