Earning 12,000 Euros as a Part-Time International Non-EU Student in Germany: Constraints and Opportunities

Introduction to Working Regulations for Students

Firstly, it is crucial to understand that obtaining a student visa strictly requires enrollment as a full-time student. Part-time international non-EU students in Germany are not typically eligible for a student visa; instead, they must be a full-time student in order to be granted a student residence permit.

Work Limitations and Earning Potential

There are strict limitations regarding the number of hours and days international students can work off-campus. The most significant constraint is the limitation of working no more than 120 full work days in a calendar year. If you work 120 full days, you would need to earn €100 per day to reach the €12,000 goal, which means working 12.50 Euros per hour. The current minimum wage in Germany as of 2023 is €12 per hour, making it feasible to meet this target with full days of work.

You can divide each of these 120 full work days into two half-day work periods. However, be cautious as any work period exceeding 4 hours will still count as a full work day toward the 120-day limit. Additionally, during lecture months, you are permitted to work no more than 20 hours per week.

On-Campus and Off-Campus Work Opportunities

On-campus academic work such as being a lab or teaching assistant and mandatory internships do not count against these limitations. However, optional internships do count. Therefore, it is beneficial to prioritize on-campus work, if possible.

Consider that proficiency in German is highly encouraged for securing part-time jobs in Germany. Verifying these regulations with the appropriate authorities is essential before accepting any employment to ensure compliance.

Earning Potential and Financial Support

Working as a part-time international non-EU student in Germany is challenging if your goal is to earn €12,000 in one year. Part-time jobs usually offer hourly wages that might not accumulate to such a substantial sum within a year. Moreover, your hourly earning is subject to the total number of hours you work, not the total earnings. This means that keeping track of your working hours is crucial.

Be aware that the more you earn, the higher your tax burden. Therefore, it is important to plan accordingly to manage your income and expenses.

Conclusion

Part-time international non-EU students in Germany can potentially earn up to €12,000 in a year, depending on various factors. These factors include the number of hours worked, the type of job, and the location. However, strict work limitations imposed on students make it difficult to reach this target. To overcome these challenges, students should explore various financial support options such as scholarships, grants, and university-partnered part-time work opportunities. It is essential to verify the regulations with the relevant authorities to ensure compliance and to make informed decisions.