Study and work in Germany in 2025: learn all about

With more than 400,000 professional vacancies available and Brazilians working among the highest-paid professionals in the country, Germany offers a unique environment where education and work are perfectly combined. Discover everything you need to know to make that dream a reality.

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Study visa: simplified and affordable

The good news is that the German visa process is more transparent than ever. For exchanges of up to 90 days, Brazilians only need a valid passport, travel insurance, financial proof, and lodging. It's a perfect opportunity for those who want to “test the waters” before a bigger commitment.

For programs longer than 90 days, a student visa is required, but can be applied for after entering as a tourist in Germany, within the initial 90 days. This flexibility offers a significant strategic advantage for those who need time to organize.

Available visa types:

• School exchange (up to 18 years old)
• Undergraduate and graduate studies
• Doctorate and research
• Intensive German courses
• Professional programs (Ausbildung)

The secret lies in preparing the documentation in advance. As our comprehensive guide to How to live legally in Germany in 2025.

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German education: its partner institutions

German educational excellence is no accident. The country invests massively in education and research, resulting in institutions that stand out globally. Our partner universities offer programs that combine academic rigor with practical application.

University of Europe for Applied Sciences (EU)

With campuses in Berlin, Hamburg, and Iserlohn, the EU offers complementary experiences. In Berlin, you immerse yourself in the tech and startups scene; in Hamburg, you participate in business dynamics; while Iserlohn provides a traditional German academic experience.

EU differentials:

• Optimized classes for maximum learning
• Hands-on projects with partner companies
• Bilingual programs (English and German)
• Dual system: academic study + paid professional experience

GISMA University of Applied Sciences

AMBA certified since 2011, GISMA is among the top 2% of business schools in the world. Students from over 90 countries collaborate in an international ecosystem preparing global leaders.

GISMA methodology:

• Pioneering Hyflex system (face-to-face + virtual)
• Partnerships with TATA, Deloitte and Zalando
• Trilingual programs (English, German, and hybrid)
• Full family support during the transition

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Best cities for students in 2025

The choice of city directly influences your German experience. Each region offers specific advantages for different profiles and objectives.

Berlin: capital of innovation

Population: 3.7 million inhabitants Average monthly cost: €900-1,200

Berlin combines history, culture and technological modernity. The city is home to Germany's largest startup ecosystem and offers vibrant nightlife, world-famous museums, and unparalleled cultural diversity.

Munich: tradition and prosperity

Population: 1.5 million inhabitants
Average monthly cost: €1,100-1,400

An economic center of southern Germany, Munich offers exceptional quality of life. Proximity to the Alps, headquarters of multinationals such as BMW and Siemens, in addition to the famous Oktoberfest make the city a premium destination.

Hamburg: portal to the world

Population: 1.9 million inhabitants Average monthly cost: €900-1,150

The second largest German city, Hamburg is the country's main port. The combination of maritime tradition with business modernity creates unique opportunities, especially for those seeking international careers.

For a full analysis of living costs, see our detailed article on How much does it cost to live in Germany in 2025, where we detail realistic budgets for each city.

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Minimum wage and professional opportunities

The new German minimum wage of €12.82 per hour in 2025 reflects the country's commitment to fair compensation. For students, this represents real opportunities for financial sustainability during their studies.

German salary benefits:

• Standard 40-hour working week
• 30 days of annual paid vacation
• Comprehensive health system
• Employment stability guaranteed by law
• Work-life balance

Sectors in high demand

Information Technology

• Software developers and architects
• Cybersecurity experts
• Data Analysts and AI

engineering

• Automation and mechatronics
• Renewable energy
• Industry 4.0

Cheers

• Medical specialists
• Qualified nurses
• Medical technology

For IT professionals specifically, our guide on IT opportunities in Germany details salary prospects and career paths in the sector.

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Work for students: rules and opportunities

German law offers real flexibility for international students. With a student visa, you can work up to 20 hours a week during term time and full time on academic holidays.

Work limits:

• 120 full days a year
• 240 half days a year
• No limitations during university holidays
• Full-time work allowed during academic breaks

Ideal areas for student work

Hospitality and tourism

• Restaurants and cafés
• Hotels and inns
• Seasonal events
• Tour guides

Technology and startups

• Technical support
• Web development
• Digital marketing
• Technical translation

Academic Services

• Research Assistant
• Language Tutor
• Text correction
• University monitoring

It is important to understand that exceeding the allowed hours may result in the loss of student status and the imposition of fines. The key lies in the intelligent planning of time between studies and work.

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Work after studies: easy permanence

One of the biggest advantages of studying in Germany is the ease of transition to the permanent job market. After completing the studies, it is possible to convert the student visa to a job search visa.

Job Search Visa:

• Valid for up to 18 months
• Allows full-time work without restrictions
• It doesn't have to be in the training area initially
• It makes it easier to obtain the EU Blue Card later

During this time, you can work in any field to support yourself while searching for a qualified position. Once employed with adequate pay, the path to permanent residence becomes direct and transparent.

Path to permanent residence

1. Blue Card EU (qualified professionals)
   • Minimum wage: €56,400 annually
   • €43,992 for in-demand areas (IT, engineering)
   • Valid for up to 4 years (renewable)
2. Permanent residence
   • After 33 months with Blue Card
   • 21 months with German level B1
   • Same rights as German citizens

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Essential documentation and preparation

The success of the process depends fundamentally on adequate documentary preparation. Early organization avoids delays and significantly increases the chances of approval.

Required basic documents:

• Translated and apostilled school transcript
• Previous graduation certificates (if any)
• Proof of language proficiency
• Curriculum in European format
• Structured motivation letter
• Valid passport with copies

Financial documentation:

• Blocked account with €11,904 per year
• Proof of parental income (if applicable)
• Preliminary international health insurance
• Bank statements for the last 3 months

Preparation of the German curriculum

The European curriculum has important peculiarities. It must include a professional photo, be chronological and cannot have periods without explanation, even if it is a month between jobs.

Mandatory structure:

• Complete personal information
• Clear professional objective
• Detailed professional experience (month/year)
• Academic education
• Technical skills and languages
• Relevant extracurricular activities

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Language preparation: German in practice

While many programs are offered in English, knowing German dramatically expands your opportunities. Language is not only a communication tool, but a key to deep cultural and professional integration.

Required levels per program

A1-A2: Basic language programs B1-B2: Technical courses and some baccalaureates C1: Public universities and specific areas C2: Medicine and highly regulated areas

For beginners, our guide German for beginners: get ready to study in Germany offers practical strategies to accelerate learning efficiently.

Accelerated learning strategies

Virtual immersion at home:

• Set up devices in German
• Watch German content with German subtitles
• Practice writing by keeping a diary in German
• Join German online communities

Proven methods:

• 20-25 hours of structured study per week
• Live classes with native teachers
• International practice groups
• Focus on all four skills simultaneously

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Job market without fluent German

Contrary to common myths, it's entirely possible to work in Germany without fluent German, especially in specific sectors. The German international market values qualified professionals regardless of their initial language level.

Sectors that hire in English

Technology and startups

• Software development
• Digital marketing
• Data analysis
• Product Management

Research and development

• Pharmaceutical laboratories
• Innovation centers
• Universities and institutes
• International projects

Financial Services

• International banks
• Multinational consultancies
• Fintechs
• Investment analysis

For specific details about working without German, see our article Is it possible to work in Germany without fluent German, which analyzes opportunities by sector and region.

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Real cost of student living

Realistic financial planning is critical to a successful experience. Costs vary significantly by city and lifestyle but follow predictable patterns.

Typical monthly budget distribution

Housing (35-45% of the budget)

• Berlin: €400-800
• Munich: €600-1,200
• Hamburg: €350-700
• Leipzig: €250-450

Food (15-20% of the budget)

• Cooking at home: €150-250
• University menu: €3-5 per meal
• Casual restaurants: €15-25

Transportation (5-8% of the budget)

• Semester student pass: €150-300
• Urban monthly pass: €30-100
• Deutschland-Ticket: €49 (domestic access)

Health insurance (10-12% of the budget)

• Students up to 30 years old: €110-140
• Full coverage guaranteed
• Includes appointments, medications, and emergencies

Practical savings strategies

Smart housing:

• WG (shared apartment): €300-500
• Student housing: €200-400
• Smaller cities: up to 40% savings

Efficient feeding:

• Weekly markets for fresh produce
• Discount supermarkets (Aldi, Lidl)
• Anti-waste apps (Too Good To Go)

Optimized transport:

• Used bike: €50-150
• Semester pass included in university fees
• Shared rides for long trips

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Postgraduate opportunities

Completing studies in Germany opens exceptional doors to permanent establishment and an international career. The country values locally trained professionals and offers clear paths for progression.

Job Search Program

After graduation, you have 18 months to find qualified work in your field. During this time:

• You can work any job to support yourself
• Maintains legal residence status
• It has access to all public services
• You can travel freely around the European Union

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Life Beyond Studies

The German experience transcends academic and professional issues. The country offers an exceptional quality of life, with an efficient health system, quality public transportation, and rich cultural life.

Social and cultural integration

Events and activities:

• Traditional regional festivals
• Professional and Academic Meetups
• Cultural exchange groups
• University sports activities

Travel and exploration:

• Rail connections for all of Europe
• Airline tickets starting from €10
• Diverse landscapes: from the Alps to the Baltic Sea
• Historic and modern cities to explore

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Be Easy

Turning the dream of studying and working in Germany into reality doesn't have to be a lonely and complicated process. Na Be Easy, we offer full support from choosing the ideal program to the first months of adaptation in the country. Our expert team knows all the nuances of the German process and can guide you through every step, ensuring that your journey is safe, well-planned, and truly transformative. Get in touch with us today! Let's together build your international future in Germany with the trust and support you deserve.