Can I Work and Study in Germany? 2025 Complete Guide

Can I work and study in Germany? This is among the significant questions that international students pose, particularly the Indians who intend to pursue higher education in Europe. The good news is, yes—you can! Students in Germany have a chance to work during their education, and new immigration regulations of 2025 simplify and liberalise it compared to the previous ones. These regulations are based on whether you are an EU or a non-EU citizen. The non-EU students can now work 140 full days or 280 half-days annually, or 20 hours per week during lecture sessions. EU students, in their turn, are even freer with fewer restrictions.

Can I Work and Study in Germany in 2025?

Can I work and study in Germany? Yes, you can. Germany aggressively encourages international students to pursue academic education and a part-time job. Not only does this assist in meeting living costs, but it is also beneficial in offering professional experience, exposure to diverse cultures, and networking. Through cooperation, students should be able to develop practical skills, enhance their competencies in the German language, and increase their chances of securing employment upon graduation.

Major Work Rights in Germany (2025) Highlights

• Non-EU Students: Permitted to work 140 full days/280 half-days in a year.

• Choice: No more than 20 hours per week during lecture classes.

• EU/EEA Students: Have unlimited access to the German job market, only with a 20-hour limit per week during semesters to remain academically focused.

• Semester Breaks: In this case, students are free to participate in full-time work without any limitations, and it is a perfect time to save money or obtain professional experience.

Upon graduation, you can enjoy an 18-month job-seeking permit, which gives you plenty of time to find permanent jobs or seek an EU Blue Card.

Few people realise that studying in Germany for a job is not only a matter of money but also a gateway to a future career working in the most powerful economy in Europe.

What Are the Current Work Rights for International Students in Germany 2025?

Can I work and study in Germany? In March 2024, the German government revised its regulations on student employment, which will officially be applicable in 2025. The updates are to make international students more flexible and have more opportunities without losing sanity in the form of academic commitments.

Key 2025 Work Rights

• Students not EU: This is now allowed to work a maximum of 140 full days (or 280 half-days) per year (an increase of 120 days over the former).

• Weekly Option: Students can work a maximum of 20 hours per week during semester times instead of counting days, which is better to manage.

• EU/EEA/Swiss Students: The employment rights granted are identical to those of German nationals, but limited only to a maximum of 20 hours/week during the semester (to protect academic achievement).

• Semester Breaks: There are no limitations on full-time employment of students during official university holiday times; therefore, this is the best time to make extra money or gain some experience.

Definitions

• Full day = 8 working hours

• Half day = 4 working hours

You can create a working plan that suits you best, as the option to use the daily system or the weekly 20-hour one allows you to consider the academic workload, lifestyle, and financial priorities and make the correct choice.

Also Read: Germany Work Visa

How Do Latest Work Restrictions Differ for EU vs Non-EU Students in 2025?

Can I work and study in Germany? The rules differ depending on nationality. Here’s a quick comparison:

What Are the Updated 2025 Work Hour Calculation Methods? Experts Insights

Can I work and study in Germany? Germany provides two flexible ways of monitoring student jobs, making it easier for international students to plan how they will work as they study. E-learning allows you to decide between the approaches that suit your work schedule and your work type.

Work Hour Calculation Procedures (2025)

• Daily Method: You can work as many as 140 full days (8 hours daily) or 280 half-days (4 hours daily) in any calendar year.

• Weekly Approach: Alternatively, you can work up to 20 hours per week regarding lecture time.

Practical Examples

• Assuming you work 5 hours daily, it is said to be a half-day.

• Assuming you work 15 hours weekly in a cafe, this will be counted into your 20-hour maximum per week.

• You can become a full-time worker during semester breaks.

It is important to note that the calculation of work is done between January and December every year, and not the year when you joined the university. This implies that your working hours will start at the beginning of every new calendar year.

Also Read: Living Expenses in Germany for Indian Students: Latest Guide

Which Types of Current Work Don't Count Toward Hour Limits in Germany 2025?

Can I work and study in Germany? The official 140-day (or 20 hours per week) work limit will not apply to all employment options that you will have as a student in Germany. Some academic and course-related positions are exempt, and you have more space to earn and gain experience.

Exempt Job Categories

• University student assistant jobs (HiWi jobs).

• Laboratory or academic department research assistant positions.

• Official internships are a requirement of your degree.

• The university academic tutoring.

• Thesis-related research works that directly help your coursework.

Although these positions do not affect your 140-day allowance, you must notify the Alien Registration Office (Ausländerbehörde) when you take such jobs. This also benefits from having your employment duly recorded and preventing future hassle with your visa status.

What Are the Latest Financial Requirements and Tax Implications in Germany for Working and Studying?

Can I work and study in Germany? There are also financial responsibilities and benefits to working in Germany. It is essential as a student to know the amount of money you will earn, when to pay taxes, and how your income influences your residence permit.

Key Financial Rules

• Earnings Tax-Free: You can earn a maximum of up to €450 monthly tax-free.

• Tax Registration Needed: When the monthly income exceeds 450 euros, one has to get registered for income tax. Donation is automatically removed from your pay.

• Evidence of Funds: To renew your residence permit in 2025, you must display at least 992 per month as evidence of financial support.

• Blocked Account Replacement: Replacement or reduction of the blocked account may occur due to regular earnings obtained in part-time jobs, provided they fulfil the financial requirement.

Many students submit a tax return at the year-end. If you have paid more tax than needed, you can easily get a refund.

Can International Students Work Full-Time During Semester Breaks in 2025?

Can I work and study in Germany? Yes! It is one of the most significant benefits of being a student in Germany. Semester holidays do not have the typical 140-day or 20-hour limitations.

Key Highlights

• No summer and winter holiday limitations.

• You may also work full-time (40 hours per week).

• Ideal chance to save money or gain experience.

• The use of semester breaks by students.

• A good number of international students use these unrestricted months to:

• Do internships that improve their career opportunities.

• Seasonal work like hospitality, tourism, or events.

• Get better pay to afford tuition, rent, and other living expenses.

Apply early to internships or part-time contracts to get the best deals before your break.

Also Read: Germany Student Visa

What Current Work Opportunities Are Available for Students in Germany 2025?

Can I work and study in Germany? There are many different student jobs in the industries in Germany. The appropriate job opportunity lies in your skills, language proficiency, and time.

Common Job Opportunities

• Hospitality: Cafes, restaurants, and bars (popular among beginners)

• Retail: Store assistants, salespersons, or cashiers.

• Tutoring: English teaching or subject tutoring (high demand amongst the Indian students)

• University Employment: Research assistant, student assistant (HiWi), or library employee.

• Delivery Services and Gig Jobs: Flexible working hours with food delivery or courier services.

• Technical Work: Work in IT, engineering, and laboratories for students with appropriate skills.

Salary Range

• Salaries that are average when working part-time get €12-15/ hour.

• Special tutoring or an IT position gets €20 or more per hour.

Can I work and study in Germany? Use job portals and networks early at university. Exam schedules are usually more adaptable to student jobs in the university.

How Can Current Students Transition from Study to Work Visas in Germany 2025?

Can I work and study in Germany? International graduates get an excellent post-study opportunity in Germany. After your course, you can easily progress to the work visa track after being on your student visa.

Steps to Transition

• Seek an 18-month job-seeking permit as soon as you finish your final exams.

• The good thing about this period is that you can work full-time in any occupation to ensure that you sustain yourself.

• After finding a job in your profession, have either a German resident card or an EU Blue Card.

EU Blue Card Requirements (2025)

• Minimum pay is €53,000 per year (or €41,808 when a graduate of a STEM programme).

• German university degree recognition.

• The coverage of health insurance has to be valid and extensive.

Most international students take 18 months to establish themselves in smaller positions before securing a full-time position in the career of their choice.

What Are the Restrictions on Self-Employment and Freelancing in 2025?

Can I work and study in Germany? Students who are not citizens of the EU and study in Germany are not allowed to engage in self-employment or freelancing on a student visa independently. It is a necessary regulation that many students fail to follow, but breaking it will result in a fine or visa issues.

Rules You Must Follow

• All freelancing must be prohibited unless you have permission from the authorities.

• Entrepreneurial activity, including establishing a business or providing services on an independent basis, involves applying for an entrepreneur visa.

• German immigration authorities should be contacted before any business or freelance work is started.

• As to whether you could work and study in Germany as a freelancer, the answer is no, unless you have applied for and obtained official permission. Knowing your local Ausländerbehörde before you undertake any independent work is always good.

Can I work and study in Germany? Before this, you should look at university jobs, internships, or part-time work, which is legal, flexible, and usually fits your studies better.

Also Read: Germany Opportunity Card: Benefits, Eligibility & Application

How Do Latest Work Rights Apply During Language Courses and Preparatory Programs?

Can I work and study in Germany? Students enrolled in Studienkolleg (preparatory programs) or language courses face stricter employment regulations than those pursuing full-time degree programs. The primary focus for these students is academic preparation, rather than part-time work.

Key Conditions

• Work only during lecture-free periods such as holidays and semester breaks.

• Official approval is required from both the Federal Employment Agency and the Foreigners' Office.

• Academic success remains the priority; work is secondary.

So, if you are enrolled in a language program and asking, "Can I work and study in Germany?", the answer is yes—but with more restrictions than full-time degree students. Always ensure approvals are in place before starting any employment.

Focus on internships or part-time roles that complement your academic goals, as these are more likely to receive official approval.

What Current Documents Are Required for Student Work Authorisation in Germany 2025?

Can I work and study in Germany? Also, you should never forget to come with the proper documents when working as an international student in Germany. Paperwork can be lost, leading to fines, job delays, or visa issues. It is also notable that employers must show that you have the right to work, making it much easier to prepare.

Essential Documents

• Valid Student Residence Permit - In this case, the right to study and work in Germany has to be mentioned.

• University Enrollment Certificate- To confirm that you are a student.

• Signed Employment Contract- Your employer, payment, working hours, and job description.

• Application to Alien Registration Office (Ausländerbehofstelle) - This is required each time you acquire a new job or change jobs.

Processing Time

• Standard Processing: The normal processing typically requires 2-4 weeks, again, depending on the workload of the local authorities.

• Quick Processing: It can be provided in the case of an emergency, although only when the local office is in a position to manage them.

You must always have a hard copy and electronically copied documents. Not only will being ready take away last-minute issues when filling in job applications or going through inspections, but it will also show the employers that you are a well-prepared, reliable individual.

Conclusion

Can I work and study in Germany?  Yes, and it will be more flexible than ever with the regulations of 2025. The non-EU students can work 140 days annually or 20 hours weekly during the semesters, but may work any number of hours during the holidays. Freedom of EU students is even more unrestricted. Germany has provided students with the best opportunities to develop academically and professionally through part-time jobs and post-study work visas. The trick lies in knowing the regulations and smartly counting your time and spending opportunities. The international students will also be able to establish a long-term career in Germany with the 18-month job-seeking permit and the EU blue card opportunities.

Contact TerraTern for more information on how I can work and study in Germany.