Germany remains one of the most popular destinations for international students. Many students take a Minijob to support their living expenses — but the rules can be confusing.
Here’s what you need to know in 2026.
🇩🇪 1️⃣ How Many Hours Can International Students Work?
If you are a non-EU student in Germany:
You can work:
120 full days per year
OR240 half days per year
This rule applies regardless of whether your job is a Minijob or not.
⚠️ Important: Exceeding this limit can affect your residence permit.
💶 2️⃣ How Much Can You Earn in a Minijob?
In 2026:
Minimum wage: €13.90/hour
Minijob income limit: €603/month
That equals about:
👉 43 hours per month
If you stay under €603/month:
No income tax deducted (usually)
No health insurance contributions
Only pension contributions apply (optional opt-out)
🛡️ 3️⃣ What About Health Insurance?
This is very important for students.
If you:
Are under 30 years old
Enrolled at a university
Earn under the Minijob limit
You can stay in student health insurance (around €120–€130 per month).
If you exceed limits or work too many hours:
You may lose student insurance status.
📚 4️⃣ Can Students Have Multiple Minijobs?
Yes — but:
All Minijob income is combined.
Total must stay under €603/month to remain a Minijob.
Working too many hours may violate visa rules.
Planning is essential.
⚠️ 5️⃣ Common Mistakes International Students Make
❌ Working more than allowed yearly days
❌ Exceeding €603 without realizing
❌ Ignoring residence permit restrictions
❌ Mixing freelance work with Minijobs
❌ Not informing immigration authorities when required
These mistakes can lead to:
Fines
Insurance problems
Visa issues
💡 6️⃣ Best Types of Minijobs for Students
Popular student-friendly Minijobs in Germany:
University assistant (HiWi)
Café / restaurant staff
Retail assistant
Warehouse jobs
Remote online support jobs
Startup internships (paid part-time)
Flexible scheduling is key during exam periods.
✅ Final Advice for 2026
A Minijob is a smart way for international students to earn extra income — but only if you:
Track your hours carefully
Stay within visa limits
Monitor your monthly income
Understand your insurance status
Smart planning protects both your income and your residence status.
👉 Looking for student-friendly Minijobs in Germany?
Discover flexible opportunities on AloMiniJob today.