Did you know that international students will require around 934 euros each month, or about 11,208 euros annually, to manage their living costs? These are the estimated living expenses for an international student in Germany. For students away from home, money is quite important. Luckily, Germany offers many opportunities for students to earn money through part-time jobs. Part-time jobs in Germany for students provide valuable experience to enhance their resumes. Through these jobs, students not only gain skills but also expand their network by meeting new people at work. In this article, we will show you the 10 highest paying part-time jobs for international students in Germany in 2024.
Rules & Regulations for International Students Seeking Jobs in Germany
Many international students come to Germany to further their studies or to find better job opportunities. However, if you’re a non-EU student looking to work part-time in Germany, there are rules to follow strictly. EU students can work up to 20 hours a week and must contribute to certain insurance like German nationals. Non-EU students must adhere to the following specific regulations:
- Limited Hours: Non-EU students can only work 120 full-time hours or 240 part-time hours in a year, regardless of how many hours they work.
- Work Permit: Non-EU students need a separate work permit to work in Germany. Also, if you want to work more than the permitted number of hours, you can obtain special permission from the local employment agency (Agentur für Arbeit) or the foreigner’s registration office (Ausländerbehörde). Normally, students residing in areas with low unemployment rates may be allowed to work more hours. Additionally, international students employed as academic assistants often do not face restrictions on their working hours. However, they are still required to inform the foreigners’ office about their situation. Students enrolled in language or preparatory courses must secure permission from both the Federal Employment Agency and the Immigration Office to work during breaks.
- Employment Restrictions: Non-EU students cannot freelance or be self-employed.
- German Language: While not mandatory, knowing German basics is important to avoid confusion. Being fluent in the local language can help non-EU students perform better in their part-time jobs in Germany.
How Do International Students Find Part-Time Work In Germany?
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The University
At your university, a position as a research assistant is an excellent opportunity for students from non-EU countries. You can explore job openings on the university bulletin board or online job exchange platforms. These positions, known as “Wissenschaftliche Hilfskräfte” or Hiwis, involve tasks like supervising in the library, leading tutorials, or assisting professors with research literature. Networking is key! Don’t hesitate to ask friends or fellow students if they know of any suitable job opportunities. As highlighted earlier, Hiwi jobs are particularly great because they are not subject to the 120/240 days rule, which limits international students to working part-time for up to 120 full days or 240 half days per year.
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Online Job Boards
Outside the university, you can search for part-time job opportunities on online job boards or through the Studierendenwerk, which often posts job offers. Additionally, local and regional newspapers may have job listings. Common student jobs outside of university include waitressing, working at fairs, courier services, and tutoring, which can be a lucrative option for international students. Other popular platforms include LinkedIn, Glassdoor, Indeed, Xing, and Monster. Additionally, specific portals like Absolventa and Jobteaser list the best part-time jobs for students in Germany. Regularly checking these sites can help students find suitable employment options to support their studies.
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The Federal Employment Agency
You can also explore job placement services offered by the Federal Employment Agency, where you can receive personalized advice and assistance in finding part-time employment.
Process of Getting a Part-time Job as an International Student in Germany in 2024
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Explore the Job Market:
Check the job market in your area and browse through job openings for international university students on platforms like the local employment agency, online job portals, newspapers, or university notice boards. Once you find interesting opportunities, it’s time to move on to the next step.
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Apply for your Interesting Positions:
The application process is relatively straightforward. Similar to German students, you apply via email, attaching your CV and a letter of motivation to your application. In Germany, a well-crafted cover letter is essential and can affect your chances of success.
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Go to the Interview:
If you’re invited for a job interview, congratulations! Now is your chance to make a positive impression. Highlight any relevant experience in the field, if applicable. Mentioning your participation in or completion of a German language course can also be helpful. Job interviews in Germany often take place either in person or via online calls, depending on the nature of the job.
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Take the Job Opportunity:
If you receive a job offer from one of the positions you applied for, don’t hesitate to accept it! Once you’ve discussed basic terms like working hours with your employer, you can start your part-time work while studying abroad.
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Use the Work Permit Post-Graduation:
After completing your studies, if you’re interested in pursuing full-time employment in Germany, you can leverage your student visa to obtain an 18-month residence permit for the post-graduation period. This enables you to work full-time in any job as you kick-start your career in Germany. Remember to apply for an employment visa promptly upon securing professional employment.
How Much Does a Part Time Job in Germany Pay?
Germany, like other European Union countries, has a mandated minimum wage that employers must adhere to. As of January 1, 2024, the minimum wage in Germany is €12.82 per hour before taxes, up from €12 per hour since October 1, 2022. Part-time jobs for international students in Germany can pay up to 450 Euros per month.
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The minimum wage in Germany is revised every two years, providing clarity for working professionals to plan their future endeavours. Part-time salaries for students may also fluctuate every two years based on these updates. The pay rate usually hinges on an individual’s skill set and achievements, as well as the industry and the regional labor market. Larger cities like Berlin or Frankfurt offer higher wages than smaller towns and cities. Also, in cities like Munich and Hamburg, hourly wages are higher, but the cost of living is also high. For roles such as academic assistants, industrial production assistants, or service staff at trade fairs, the average hourly wage often exceeds the minimum wage slightly.
10 Highest Paying Part-Time Jobs In Germany For International Students In 2024
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Cashier
Pay: €13/hour or €29,979/Year
Are you someone who’s got a knack for numbers and enjoys handling money? Well, working as a cashier might just be the perfect gig for you! As a cashier, you’ll get to experience the world of finances, dealing with cash transactions on a daily basis. It’s not just about ringing up purchases; you’ll also pick up valuable skills in money management and basic accounting. Plus, there’s the added bonus of gaining a deeper appreciation for the value of money and learning how to handle it responsibly. So, if you’re looking for a rewarding part-time job that pays well and teaches you important life skills, cashiering could be the way to go!
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Waiter/Waitress
Pay: €13/hour or €27,550/Year
If you enjoy being around people and thrive in the hospitality scene, then being a waiter or waitress in Germany could be the perfect fit for you! It’s not just about taking orders and serving food; you’ll also pick up a host of valuable skills along the way. From mastering time management to building self-confidence in customer interactions, working in hospitality offers a wealth of learning opportunities. Plus, there’s the added bonus of meeting new people and earning extra cash through tips and bonus packages. Another perk is that waiters and waitresses are often insured in their workplaces, so you can focus on your job without worrying about insurance coverage. Being a waiter or waitress is not only one of the highest-paying part-time jobs in Germany for students but also a fantastic way to grow personally and professionally in the world of hospitality.
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Call Center Operator
Pay: €15 Per Hour
Are you a people person with great communication skills? Consider working as a call centre operator in Germany! In this role, you’ll be responsible for handling incoming calls and providing customers with accurate and relevant information about products or services. Exceptional communication skills, patience, and a basic understanding of computer systems are essential for success in this position. You’ll need to be persuasive and adept at meeting customer needs to excel in the role. Additionally, keeping accurate documents of interactions is important. Despite the demands, being a call centre operator is one of the highest-paying part-time jobs in Germany for international students, offering a rewarding opportunity to hone your communication skills and earn a competitive salary.
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Cleaner
Pay: €13/hour or €27,214/Year
Are you looking for a flexible part-time job in Germany? Consider working as a cleaner! One of the perks of this job is the flexible working hours, allowing you to fit your work schedule around your studies. Fluency in German is not always required, making it accessible to international students. Additionally, cleaners often enjoy bonuses, and with flexible hours, you can even take on multiple jobs in a day. This flexibility makes cleaning one of the highest-paying part-time jobs in Germany for students, offering opportunities to earn income while maintaining a manageable schedule.
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Courier
Pay: €15/hour or €31,543/Year
Are you keen on getting to know the city inside out while making some extra cash? Consider becoming a courier! With just a bicycle and a large backpack, you can start delivering items and get to know the city’s streets and neighbourhoods. Not only does this job offer opportunities to earn money through tips and salary, but it also allows you to explore different parts of the city and meet new people along the way.
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Tutor
Pay: €20/hour or €41,000/Year
Becoming a tutor opens up a world of possibilities beyond just teaching traditional subjects. Whether it’s poetry, storytelling, or sharing your native language, tutoring offers a diverse range of opportunities to impart knowledge and learn from your students. It’s a rewarding experience where you not only help others but also expand your own horizons. That’s why tutoring is one of the highest-paying part-time jobs in Germany for students.
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Shop Assistant
Pay: €31.907 on an hourly basis
Working as a shop assistant in Germany involves providing support in stores and assisting customers in selecting products they desire. Shop assistants play a crucial role in understanding customer needs and ensuring they find what they’re looking for. Their responsibilities include maintaining a tidy and organized store environment, restocking shelves, and processing transactions. Employers value shop assistants with excellent language and communication skills, making it a sought-after position for international students in Germany.
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Babysitter
Pay: €11/hour or €23,162/Year
Babysitting requires a high level of responsibility and the ability to care for children effectively. Babysitters should be familiar with basic first aid procedures and household rules to ensure the safety and well-being of the children under their care. When applying for a babysitting job, it’s important to instil confidence in the parents by showing your reliability and trustworthiness. Due to the level of responsibility involved, babysitting is considered one of the most expensive part-time jobs for students in Germany.
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Bartender
Pay: €13/hour or €27,321/Year
Working as a bartender can be exciting! You get to learn cool stuff about making drinks, which is a big, exciting world on its own. And it’s not just about mixing drinks – you might get to work at fancy private parties, meeting all sorts of new people. Bartenders are famous for having great chats with customers, which can boost your confidence and make you a better talker. That’s why bartending is one of the best-paying part-time gigs for students in Germany.
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Research Assistant
Pay: €30,704/Year
Taking on the role of a research assistant can be a thrilling and deeply fulfilling part-time opportunity, especially for those pursuing advanced degrees. Collaborating with seasoned teams on research ventures not only provides financial aid but also enhances your professional and academic skills. These positions are often advertised on university job portals, and networking with professors can help you discover them more easily.
Conclusion
Working part-time while studying can be a good option for many students, allowing them to focus on their studies while earning money to support their lifestyle and potentially save for the future. Beyond financial benefits, a part-time job offers valuable personal and professional development opportunities. It helps students explore their interests and preferences in various job roles, enhances time management skills, and shows resilience in balancing work and studies. We hope this article has been of tremendous help to you as an international student seeking a part-time job in Germany.
