Work and study in Germany: Minijob increases to €603/month in 2026

As of January 1, 2026, students in Germany will have new conditions to reconcile work and studies. The monthly limit for Minijob contracts increases to €603, a direct reflection of the increase in the national minimum wage to €13.90 per hour. This change opens doors for those who wish to build professional experience while developing academic skills.

The adjustment accompanies the appreciation of work in the country, maintaining the original Minijob proposal as a flexible model that benefits both employers and workers. For those planning an exchange, understanding these rules is essential to take advantage of every opportunity.

‍

What changes in Minijob in 2026

The monthly amount of €603 represents more than just a number. Calculated about the new Minimum wage in Germany, this limit allows approximately 43 working hours per month. The concept remains the same: tax-free income within this ceiling, without compromising student benefits.

German legislation links the Minijob ceiling directly to the minimum wage. When the value per hour increases, the monthly limit automatically follows. This indexation ensures that purchasing power is maintained over time, protecting workers from economic fluctuations.

Features of the Minijob in 2026:

• Monthly limit of €603 before tax incidence
• Around 43 hours per month with a minimum wage of €13.90/hour
• Exempt from income tax within the established limit
• Maintains eligibility for student programs
• Flexible schedules compatible with the academic schedule

‍

Study and work: a possible balance

The German system recognizes that students need flexibility. Different visas allow for different working hours, but Minijob fits perfectly within the rules for international students. During the term of office, the legislation allows up to 20 hours of work per week. The Minijob, with its 43 hours per month, is comfortably distributed within this margin.

This model has concrete benefits. Supplementary income helps with everyday expenses, from food to leisure. Most importantly, it provides direct contact with the German labor market, developing practical skills and expanding professional contact networks.

Many students use Minijob as a first step in their local career. Coffee shops, restaurants, libraries, administrative offices, and cultural centers usually hire through this model. Accumulated experience often opens doors to more robust positions after graduation.

‍

Sectors that hire students the most

Gastronomy and hospitality: Restaurants, cafés, and hotels lead the hiring of Minijobbers. The dynamic environment and flexible schedules attract students who need to reconcile work with classes. Many establishments value cultural diversity, creating inclusive spaces for international professionals.

Retail and service: Supermarkets, stores, and shopping centers maintain constant demand for sales assistants. Customer service positions develop communication skills in German, accelerating fluency in the language while generating income.

Academic assistance: Universities and research institutes hire students as library assistants, laboratory monitors, or administrative assistants. These positions provide a professional environment directly linked to the area of study, enriching the academic curriculum.

Administrative services: Offices from various sectors are looking for assistants for basic administrative tasks. File organization, document digitization, and event support are common activities that allow for negotiable schedules.

‍

Cost of living and financial planning

Minijob's monthly €603 covers a significant portion of student expenses. In smaller cities, this amount can represent up to half of the monthly budget. Larger urban centers require supplementation, but the contribution remains relevant.

Typical distribution of monthly expenses:

• Shared accommodation: €350 to €500
• Food and supermarket: €200 to €300
• Student public transport: €30 to €50
• Academic and leisure material: €100 to €150

Minijob income, combined with personal savings or family support, creates a solid foundation for student life. Many exchange students combine this work with previous savings, establishing a comfortable financial balance during the study period.

‍

Combining education and professional experience

The program of study and work in Germany allows complete immersion in the education system and the local labor market. This dual experience builds significant competitive differentials. While the university develops theoretical knowledge, Minijob provides practical application in a real context.

Professionals who are fluent in German find even more opportunities. Learn German before or during the exchange expands job possibilities and facilitates cultural integration. Many employers value candidates who demonstrate commitment to the local language, even if they are still developing fluency.

‍

Opportunities after graduation

Germany encourages international students to remain in the country after completing their studies. The job search visa allows 18 months to find qualified position related to academic training. During this period, full-time work is allowed.

Professionals who have already established connections through Minijob often convert these experiences into career opportunities. The German market values international professionals, especially in areas with a shortage of talent, such as technology, engineering, and health.

Academic institutions also facilitate the transition. German universities maintain career departments that connect students with local employers, organizing job fairs and networking events throughout the academic year.

Alternatives in other destinations

For those considering different options, other countries also offer study and work programs with their own characteristics. A Australia allows up to 48 biweekly hours during the term of office, while the Ireland offers 20 hours a week with periods of full work during holidays.

O Canada presents Co-op programs that integrate periods of study with paid professional experience, creating paths to permanent residence. Each destination has specific advantages and is subject to individual analysis according to personal and professional objectives.

A Aotearoa combines exceptional quality of life with a job market open to international students. Now Malta offers a Mediterranean climate and an affordable cost of living, attracting those who seek to perfect English in a European environment.

‍

Documentation and practical requirements

The process for legally working in Germany as a student requires specific documentation. The student visa already includes a limited work permit, eliminating additional red tape for Minijob contracts. Employers request a tax identification number, which students obtain after registering a local residence.

Essential documents:

• Valid student visa
• Residence registration (Anmeldung)
• Tax identification number (Steueridentifikationsnummer)
• German bank account
• University Enrollment Certificate

Bank account opening usually takes place within the first few weeks after arrival. Banks offer student accounts with no monthly fees, making it easy to receive salaries and manage expenses. The tax number arrives by mail a few weeks after registration of residence.

‍

Labor rights at Minijob

Even in Minijob contracts, workers maintain fundamental rights guaranteed by German law. Paid vacation, sick leave, and protection against arbitrary dismissal apply in proportion to the hours worked. Employers must provide a written contract specifying working conditions, compensation, and hours.

Salary must be promptly deposited in the indicated bank account, generally on the last business day of the month. Pay slips detail hours worked and corresponding amounts. In case of questions or disputes, student guidance centers at universities offer support free of charge.

The legislation also protects against overwork. Employers cannot require hours in addition to those contractually agreed. Students who feel excessive pressure can seek guidance from competent bodies, keeping their rights preserved.

‍

Be Easy

A Be Easy connects you with opportunities that transform plans into reality, offering specialized advice for each stage of your international journey. Our team supports you from choosing the ideal institution to adapting to the destination, ensuring a complete and safe experience. Get in touch with us and discover how to make your exchange in Germany a success story.