Indian students can work part-time in Germany while studying. They are allowed to work 120 full days or 240 half days per year. On-campus jobs (e.g., as research assistants) don’t count toward this limit. In Germany, wages average 10–15 euros/hour, and earnings under 520 euros/month are tax-free. Students can work more with permission from authorities. Jobs may require basic German skills, except for some on-campus roles. Ensure work doesn’t affect studies and complies with visa regulations.
Explanation
Indian students can work part-time while studying in Germany, provided they follow the rules set for non-EU/EEA students. Here’s what you need to know:
Work Permissions for Indian Students
- Annual Work Limit:
- Indian students can work 120 full days (8 hours/day) or 240 half days (4 hours/day) per year without requiring special permission.
- These limits apply to any part-time work outside the university.
- Exceptions for Academic Jobs:
- Jobs as a research assistant, teaching assistant, or similar roles within the university are not counted towards the 120/240-day limit.
- These jobs often have more flexible hour allowances.
- Extended Hours:
- If you wish to work more than the specified limit, you need to get approval from the Federal Employment Agency and the Foreigner’s Registration Office.
Types of Part-Time Jobs for Indian Students
- On-Campus Jobs:
- Student Assistant (HiWi): Research or administrative support at the university.
- Library or laboratory assistance.
- Off-Campus Jobs:
- Waiting tables at restaurants or cafes.
- Retail jobs in shops and supermarkets.
- Delivery jobs (e.g., food delivery).
- Babysitting or tutoring (English or subjects you excel in).
- Seasonal Jobs:
- Jobs during semester breaks (e.g., in the hospitality industry) where full-time work is permitted.
Earnings and Tax Implications
- Hourly Wage: The average part-time wage in Germany per hour is around EUR 10–15.
- Tax-Free Earnings:
- If your earnings are below 520 Euros/month (mini-job threshold), you do not pay taxes.
- If you earn above this amount, a small part of your income will go toward taxes, which you may reclaim during tax filings.
- Social Security:
- If you work under 20 hours/week, you won’t pay full social security contributions.
- For jobs exceeding 20 hours/week, especially during breaks, additional contributions may apply.
Check out information about career in Germany in the following blogs: