While studying in Germany can be a fulfilling experience, what happens after you graduate? Finding employment both during and after your course can be daunting, to say the least.
Working in a foreign country can be intimidating as you adjust to language barriers and new cultures. But the good news is that there are plenty of job opportunities out there for international students.
With the right support and insider information, you'll thrive in the German job market, especially with a degree from IU. We've put together a guide full of useful resources and networks to help you find your ideal career pathway and navigate common challenges when finding work as an international student.
Step 1: Understand Your Work Rights as an International Student
How Many Hours Can International Students in Germany Work?
A student visa in Germany allows part-time employment for up to 20 hours per week. However, you don't have these restrictions during semester breaks and can work full-time.
These limitations are in place so that you can focus on your studies during the lecture period. Even part-time working students with low hours are still entitled to minimum wage.
What About Non-EU Visas?
If you're from outside the European Union, you must comply with specific visa regulations. These special restrictions include notifying the immigration office if you plan to work full-time and getting proper documentation from your employer.
Do You Need to Pay Taxes and Health Insurance Contributions?
When you earn money as an international student in Germany, you must pay taxes on your income. However, "mini-jobs" of €450 per month or less are exempt from this. "Mini-job" employees also don't need to pay social security contributions.
When you first move to Germany, you'll be automatically issued a tax number (Steuernummer). This number will remain the same throughout your life and can be used even if you move out and return to the country.
Part-time employers may provide coverage for your health insurance contributions. This is not the case for "mini-jobs" and freelance work. If you don't meet the €450 threshold, you'll need to arrange coverage with a private health insurance company. Either way, health insurance is mandatory for international students in Germany.
Step 2: Explore Working Student Jobs Near You
Where Can You Find Student Jobs in Germany?
Here are some useful job portals to help with your search:
1. Workwise (IU Partner Job Platform)
IU students have access to this platform. It contains a range of full-time roles and internships. One of its main goals is to make your recruitment process as easy as possible. You can place yourself in the Workwise talent pool for employers to find.
2. Handshake (For IU Students Only)
An exclusive student job platform for those enrolled at IU. You can check out a range of job listings and career resources. It's a great way to schedule appointments with career coaches and stay up to date on upcoming workshops. Handshake also serves as a communication tool for the IU community.
3. Jobmensa
This site specifically caters to students and young professionals. It lists internships and graduate positions.
4. Indeed
A well-established and popular search engine. You can find a vast array of different job types.
5. StudentJob
Provides entry-level jobs to help you gain practical experience. Many of the working student jobs offer flexible scheduling.
Step 3: Land an Internship During Your Studies
Students work as interns to gain a better understanding of German office cultures and build their network. Many internship programmes have built-in visa support, making it easier to become permanently employed post-studies. Their duration can vary, with a minimum of eight weeks and a maximum of twelve months. You can boost your job prospects with an internship on your CV.
What's the Difference Between Voluntary and Mandatory Internships?
Voluntary internships are undertaken by students on a non-compulsory basis to gain work experience and enhance career prospects. Mandatory internships are a compulsory requirement of the degree course.
Where Can You Search For Internships in Germany?
These job portals and networks will give you access to internship listings:
1. IU Career Service
This is an excellent resource for IU students. The IU career service page offers one-to-one support in finding an internship that's the best fit for you.
Did you know that IU offers students virtual internships with a 50% discount? Take advantage of this unique opportunity to gain remote work experience in Germany.
2. LinkedIn
An extremely popular networking site with a job search feature for German internships. It's also great for building connections with potential future employers.
3. Absolventa
Frequently used by German students because of the vast number of industries it covers. This job board is useful for finding entry-level student jobs and intern programmes.
4. Specific Company Websites
Perhaps you have a specific sector in mind. If so, you could research the leading companies and check their websites for any openings.
Step 4: Use IU Career Services to Your Advantage
As a working student, you should make the most of the resources found on the IU Career Services page to help you balance your academic responsibilities and professional ambitions. It offers a comprehensive range of support to help you navigate your career development.
Step 5: Visit the Agentur für Arbeit and Jobcenter
When choosing a career, there are a couple of places you should certainly check out. The Agentur für Arbeit (Federal Employment Agency) and the Jobcenter are two important institutions that are worth using to navigate the German job market.
How Can the Agentur für Arbeit Help International Students?
This government-funded organisation provides job seekers with plenty of resources. International students should take advantage of the following:
1. Job Counselling
You can work with a professional to identify your strengths and where to improve. They'll give you bespoke strategies based on your career choices.
2. Training & Upskilling
Increase your employability by enhancing your skills. This can involve attending seminars or workshops that cater to your coaching needs.
3. Recruiting Events and Job Fairs
Connect with companies you are interested in working for and learn about their job opportunities. These events are perfect for gaining insights into current business cultures.
4. Career Path Information
Maybe you're unsure what you want to do and need help choosing the right job. The Federal Employment Agency is the place to go for finding a role that fits your abilities.
Can the Jobcenter Help Find Student Jobs?
Yes, local employment offices are there to provide you with job placements and find you a role that matches your skills and qualifications. If you've recently lost your job, you can use the Jobcenter to check if you qualify for unemployment insurance.
It is part of the Agentur für Arbeit, so it shares many of the same resources. The Jobcenter can enroll you in a language course to improve your German communication. This is very important as it ensures you integrate with your work colleagues.
What If You Don't Know German?
If you're worried you might struggle with your language skills whilst at the Agentur für Arbeit or Jobcenter, you could bring along a German-speaking friend to help. You may also ask for assistance from IU.
If you want to settle here permanently, then at some point it is a good idea to master the language. Learning German will impress employers by showing that you're adaptable, boosting your job prospects.
Step 6: Prepare for Full-Time Work After Graduation
Once you've graduated, you'll begin the process of transitioning from student life to full-time employment as part of the German workforce.
How Long Do German Post-Study Work Visas Last?
A post-study visa for international students will usually be valid for up to 18 months. During this time, you'll be able to live in the country and work in your chosen field. Once you have found a suitable job, you can apply for a German residence permit or European Union Blue Card. This will mean you can settle permanently.
Transitioning From Part-Time Jobs to Full-Time Employment
In order to make this as smooth as possible, it's a good idea to:
1. Get some work experience while you are still studying.
2. Build up a network of useful contacts.
3. Make sure that you keep your CV updated.
4. Regularly use online job platforms such as LinkedIn.
5. Practice job interviews to boost your confidence.
6. Remain flexible and open to new job opportunities.
7. Attend job fairs and make a list of big companies.
8. Consider taking a preparatory course to bridge any gaps in your knowledge.
9. Check out our guide on how to find a job in Germany as a foreigner
What Are the Salary Expectations for International Graduates in Germany?
This will depend on several factors, such as:
The industry you choose to work in
The location of the company
Your experience level
The minimum wage is currently €12.82 per hour. In big cities such as Berlin, you can expect the average yearly minimum wage salary for a full-time worker to be around €45,000. You'll be required to pay income tax and file a tax return annually. German working hours tend to range between 35 and 40 a week.
By following these tips and being proactive, international students can expect a bright and prosperous future in Germany.
Award-winning education at IU
Do you have any questions?
Visit our FAQ page or get in touch with our Study Advisors.
