Why Students Seek Part-Time Jobs: Managing Costs in Germany
Living in Germany can be expensive for international students, with monthly expenses averaging around €934. For Indian students studying there, managing these costs can be particularly challenging. Part-time jobs offer a crucial avenue to supplement income, allowing students to cover living expenses independently.
Beyond financial support, these jobs provide valuable experience and exposure to the local culture and work environment. This dual benefit of earning and learning not only supports students financially but also enriches their overall educational experience abroad.
Benefits of Doing Part-Time Jobs in Germany for Students
The German market offers a great working culture for international students, with numerous part-time job opportunities that can ease their lives in Germany.
Here are some key benefits beyond financial support:
- Networking Opportunities: Part-time jobs help international students build valuable professional networks.
- Understanding Work Culture: Students gain first-hand experience of the German work culture.
- Resume Building: Part-time jobs enhance resumes and can lead to potential full-time job opportunities.
- Living Standards: Earning money while studying helps sustain a good living standard in the country.
- Exploring Interests: Students can discover their fields of interest through various part-time jobs.
With these benefits, doing a part-time job in Germany is highly recommended for students pursuing education abroad.
Cost of Living in Germany
Living costs in Germany are relatively affordable compared to the EU (European Union) average, yet international students often seek to earn extra income to cover tuition fees and monthly expenses.
The average monthly living cost for international students in Germany is around €934, or about €11,208 annually. Part-time work in Germany is defined as working less than 20 hours per week .
Students can earn up to €522.50 monthly tax-free. Exceeding this amount requires a tax number, with deductions applied. However, students can reclaim this money by submitting tax returns at the year's end.
Rules for Part-Time Jobs in Germany for International Students
Those looking for part-time jobs in Germany should note all the country’s applicable rules and regulations.
Here are some key pointers worth knowing in this regard:
1) Students from the EU, Norway, Switzerland, Iceland, and Liechtenstein enjoy similar job market rights as German students.
2) Students from other countries must adhere to some exclusive rules and regulations in this regard.
3) Part-time work is limited to 140 full days or 280 half days annually, excluding freelancing or self-employment.
4) Permission is required from local employment agencies and foreign registration offices if you want to work exceeding these limits.
5) International students in preparatory or language courses can work only during recess periods with permission from the Immigration Office and Federal Employment Agency approval.
6) International students working as academic assistants often are not limited to working hour guidelines, but must notify the foreigners’ office regarding the same.
7) Work permits are from the authority or Agentur fur Arbeit, and this permit will have all information about the maximum work limit for a student.
8) Working for less than 70 continuous days over a year will also exempt students from taxation.
9) Working more than 20 hours per week is generally not advisable as it violates university rules in Germany and necessitates payments for health, nursing care, and unemployment insurance. It can also jeopardize your health and academic performance.
10) Compliance with federal laws is mandatory to avoid expulsion.
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