Study and Work in Germany

5 Steps to Work and Study in Germany

Many students opt to take on a part-time position while they complete their studies internationally, either to build their resume, gain valuable experience, or simply to offset the cost of living in a new country. With over 300,000 international students flocking to the country to pursue their degrees, Germany has quickly become one of the world’s leading hubs for academia, as well as business, technology, and medicine.

As it has entered the spotlight, it has made opportunities in its job market available to the many students traveling to its universities from across the globe. International students from within the EU will face little difficulty earning a job during their studies, as they are largely regarded as local German students by employers government.

Students from outside the EU face a different process and set of guidelines, however. Luckily, they are still invited to work while they study in both on-campus and off-campus settings.

If you’re interested in working during your study period in Germany, take a look at these simple steps that you can complete to meet that goal:

Step 1: Apply to a German University

Germany has nearly 400 universities spread across the beautiful country. Students are attracted to Germany for many reasons [link to Why Study in Germany], but whatever it is that draws them here, they must first choose which institution in which they want to enroll.

The application process for non-EU, international students is typically very straightforward. If you’re worried or stressed about it, you can reach out to companies like Yes Atlas, which will help you with every step of the application process, and even assist you with your visa and while you’re in-country.

Step 2: Acquire Your Student Visa (if necessary)

All countries within the EU and many outside of it are not required to obtain a student visa to study and work in Germany. See here for a full list of countries exempt from the visa requirements.

For all other students, it is required that you obtain a student visa before studying in Germany. These can be applied for via your local German embassy or consulate in your home country for a fee of approximately €60.

The visa application should be submitted at least 3 months prior to a student’s chosen program begins. The process includes the compiling of a variety of documents, a complete list of which is found here, In addition to an interview process. Again, this is relatively simple, but Yes Atlas can help you prepare and ensure you have everything you need to successfully obtain your visa.

Step 3: Find and Apply for Jobs in Germany

After you have received your student visa, which permits you to work while you study in the country, you can begin your search for jobs in Germany. There are a variety of databases you can access to find available positions in your field, region, or whatever other guidelines you might have.

Step 4: Learn the Guidelines (and Stick to Them)

Germany has a few guidelines for non-EU, international students to follow. Take note, and be sure to abide by the rules:

• No more than 120 full or 240 half-days of work per year
• Internships, regardless of pay, count toward these days
  • Unless they are required by your academic program
• Students must not be freelance or self-employed
• Income is taxable by the German government if it exceeds 450EUR/month
• Students enrolled in only language schools or programs
  • Must have the consent of the Federal Employment Agency and the foreigners' authority
  • Must work work in lecture-free periods

Step 5: Start Working!

After you’ve applied for a job and ensured that it does not contradict any of the requirements set out by German government, you can begin working, earning money, and building your resume!