Germany vs Ireland: What is the best destination to study and work in 2025
Deciding between Germany and Ireland for a study and work exchange can be challenging. Both countries offer unique experiences and valuable opportunities for Brazilians who wish to expand their horizons. In 2025, with heated labor markets and migratory processes in transformation, understanding the differences between these destinations is essential to make the choice that best aligns with your personal and professional goals.
Wage comparison: purchasing power in each country
Germany established a minimum wage of €12.82 per hour for 2025, which represents approximately €2,222 per month for a 40-hour working week. This value places the country among those with the best remuneration in Europe. Even more surprising is the recent discovery by the Institute of German Economics: Brazilian professionals are among the 10 nationalities with the highest salaries in the country, with a monthly average of €4,565, even surpassing the average salary of the Germans themselves.
In Ireland, although the minimum wage is competitive (€13.50 per hour in 2025), the average wage for exchange students tends to be more modest in the first few months. Many Brazilians start with entry-level jobs in sectors such as hospitality and services, with salaries close to the minimum. However, Ireland offers excellent opportunities for growth, especially for those who are fluent in English. The Irish market also values exchange students in areas such as technology and customer service with multiple languages, where Brazilians find a competitive advantage through the program Study and Work in Ireland.
Work Permits: Flexibility and Limitations
Work policies for international students differ significantly between the two countries, directly impacting their routine and financial possibilities. Understanding these differences is critical to properly planning your experience:
- Germany: Students can work up to 120 full days or 240 half-days a year. For university courses, it is allowed to work up to 20 hours a week during the academic period, without limitations during holidays. After graduation, there is an 18-month period to search for employment.
- Ireland: It allows you to work 20 hours a week during the academic period and 40 hours during school holidays. The student visa (Stamp 2) is initially valid for 8 months and can be renewed depending on the length of the course.
- Visa process: In Germany, a visa must be requested prior to arrival in the country. Brazilians enter Ireland as tourists and apply for a visa while already in the country, which simplifies the initial process.
- Financial requirements: Germany requires approximately €11,904 locked in a specific account. Ireland requests proof of €4,680 (by June/2025) or €6,665 (as of July/2025), with greater flexibility in the forms of proof.
Cost of living and quality of life
Germany offers exceptional value for money, especially in medium-sized cities. The universal health system is of high quality and affordable for students, with almost total coverage. Public transport is efficient and well connected, with monthly student passes at reduced prices (approximately €70). Public safety is exemplary, contributing to an excellent quality of life. Rentals vary significantly: in Berlin, a shared apartment (WG) costs between €400-700, while in München it can reach €800-1000.
In Ireland, the cost of living is considerably high, especially in Dublin, where accommodation costs between €500 and €900 per month. Food (€250-300), transportation (€140 for a monthly pass in Dublin) and entertainment also weigh on the budget. However, the country offers unique advantages: a high-quality English language education system, a welcoming environment for foreigners, and a strong Brazilian community, facilitating initial adaptation. The health system, although not universal as in Germany, offers good care for students with compulsory health insurance.
Landscapes and climate: experiences for every profile
Both countries offer distinct climate and landscape experiences, which can significantly influence their adaptation and quality of life. Learn about the main characteristics of each destination:
- Germany: It has four well-defined seasons, with severe winters (temperatures between -5°C and 5°C) and pleasant summers (18°C to 30°C). The landscape is diverse, including:
- Bavarian Alps in the south, ideal for winter sports
- Dense forests like the Black Forest
- Navigable rivers such as the Rhine and the Danube
- Over 16,000 historic castles scattered across the country
- Ireland: Known as “Emerald Island” due to the intense green of its landscapes, it offers:
- Temperate oceanic climate, rarely below 0°C in winter or above 25°C in summer
- Frequent rains throughout the year (average of 150 rainy days)
- Spectacular coastline with cliffs, such as the Cliffs of Moher
- Verdant fields and preserved rural landscapes
- Proximity to the sea in almost every region of the country
- Similarities: Both countries have excellent options for outdoor activities, well-preserved historic cities, and easy access to other European destinations.
Cultural integration and the Brazilian community
Cultural adaptation is a decisive factor for the success of your exchange. In Ireland, the Brazilian community is expressive and consolidated, with regular events, support groups on social networks, and even stores specializing in Brazilian products in the main cities. The welcoming character of the Irish and the similarity of some cultural values with those of the Brazilians facilitates integration, even for those who are still improving their English.
In Germany, although the Brazilian community is smaller, there is a growing support network, especially in university cities. German society, renowned for its efficiency and punctuality, also increasingly values cultural diversity. The country offers government-subsidized integration courses and programs such as Study and Work in Germany facilitate adaptation through specialized support.
Career opportunities and permanent immigration
Both Germany and Ireland offer paths for permanent immigration after the study period. Germany, with its robust economy and demographic challenges, has implemented policies that facilitate the retention of qualified professionals, especially in high-demand areas such as technology, engineering, and health. With 18 months of permission to seek employment after graduation and the possibility of permanent residence after only 21 months of skilled work, the country represents a solid option for those seeking to establish an international career.
Ireland, for its part, offers the “Third Level Graduate Scheme”, allowing graduates to remain in the country for 1-2 years to seek employment. With the strong growth of technology companies and the presence of multinationals, there are good opportunities in sectors such as IT, pharmaceuticals, and financial services. The path to citizenship is also relatively accessible after five years of legal residence.
Be Easy
A Be Easy is committed to making your dream of studying and working abroad a reality. Our expert team offers personalized guidance to help you choose between Germany and Ireland, considering your objectives, profile and preferences. We offer full support at every stage, from choosing the ideal program to adapting to the destination country. Get in touch today and discover how we can facilitate your international journey!
