Jobs in Germany For International Students - Salaries, EU Blue Card, Work Visa

Jobs in Germany For International Students - Salaries, EU Blue Card, Work Visa

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Asmita Ghosh

Study Abroad Content Writer | Updated On - Jun 6, 2024

Highlights -

  • Popular sectors - The popular sectors for job opportunities for international students in Germany are Banking and Finance, Insurance, Consulting, Telecom, IT, Transport, Medicine, Utilities, and Engineering.
  • Top recruiters - Audi, Mercedes, Volkswagen, BMW, Amazon, BCG, Google, and SAP are the top recruiters for working as an international student in Germany.
  • Salary - Working in Germany as an international student can help you earn an average salary between 60,000 EUR to 99,000 EUR. Germany part time jobs salary for international students is 10-15 EUR per hour.
  • High-paying jobs - The highest-paying jobs for international students in Munich are Financial analysts, Aerospace engineers, Architects, Business Development Managers, Civil engineers, CEOs, and IT Managers. They earn in the range of 50,000 EUR to 1,40,000 EUR per year.
  • Working Hours - You are allowed to work for 36-40 hours per week or 7-8 hours a day for a full-time job in Germany. However, if you work part-time, then you can work for 20 hours per week and 120 full days or 240 half days.

Jobs in Germany for International students are available in various sectors in both full-time and part-time options. As per Germany’s Federal Employment Agency, the country wants 400,000 skilled migrants to arrive each year to fulfill the labor demand. According to a recent survey called “Decoding Global Talent” conducted by The Network and StepStone, Germany comes #5 in the world as a desirable country for foreign employees. The evolving job roles in Germany that you can explore are Cybersecurity specialists, Healthcare professionals, E-mobility Specialists, and AI and Machine Learning Engineers.

  • Working with leading recruitment agencies in Germany results in an average annual salary of around 60,000 EUR to 99,000 EUR
  • Several prominent German companies have a strong international presence, including Audi, Mercedes, Volkswagen, and BMW. In addition, there are opportunities to work for global brands such as Amazon, BCG, Google, and SAP in Germany.
  • There's a growing demand for skilled professionals in various sectors especially in cities like Berlin, Munich, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Cologne, Leipzig, Stuttgart, Darmstadt, and Stuttgart.
  • Currently, there are over 770,301 job vacancies in Germany. The country’s GDP has increased significantly and is anticipated to increase by 1.3% in 2024 and 1.5% in 2025.
  • There is a high demand for professionals in the most in-demand fields in Germany such as IT, Engineering, Healthcare, Nursing, Finance, Management, Human Resources, Marketing and Sales, Accounting, Hospitality, Food Services, Manufacturing etc.
  • 90% of businesses in Germany comprise SMEs (Small and Medium Enterprises), providing 2/3rds of all employment opportunities in the country.

Jobs in Germany: Top Recruiters

Germany has one of the lowest unemployment rates in Europe. Some of the largest employers in Germany include Volkswagen, Daimler, Allianz, BMW, Siemens, Bosch, and Deutsche Telekom. Let us look at the salary packages offered by these firms:

Company Salaries (EUR/year) Salaries (INR/year)
BMW 67,900 59.68 lakhs
Bain & Co 99,500 87.45 lakhs
PwC 47,600 41.83 lakhs
Bosch 66,700 58.62 lakhs
Delivery Hero 83,600 73.48 lakhs
Volkswagen 70,000 61.52 lakhs
Allianz 67,000 58.89 lakhs
Deloitte 57,000 50 lakhs
Zalando SE 61,200 53.79 lakhs
HSBC 73,300 64.42 lakhs
Morgan & Stanley 76,000 66.80 lakhs
Siemens 68,700 60.38 lakhs
Deutsche Telekom 82,700 72.69 lakhs

Note: 1 EUR = 90.81 INR, as of 5th June, 2024

Vacancies of Jobs in Germany

Low unemployment rates are suggestive of the lack of skill shortages in the labor market of Germany. However, sectors like healthcare and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Management) have their fair share of a shortage of skilled workers. As per the statistics of 2024, Germany has over 764,000 vacancies including skilled professions and casual work ranging from hospitality to English teaching. The wage growth during this period is recorded at around 0.40%.

Working Hours in Germany

The Arbeitszeitgesetz Act (Working Time Act) defines the working hours in Germany. The hours to work in Germany are mostly uniform, the work hours range between 36-40 hours per week or 7-8 hours a day. Working in Germany as an international student grants a minimum of 18 days of holiday a year. Moreover, the employees are entitled to 30 minutes of break every day as per law. Mini jobs become very common and are opted for by students with low salaries to supplement their income.

Conditions to Work in Germany for International Students

Students from outside EU/EEA countries must apply for an extended residence permit to work in Germany. You can extend your Germany work visa to find jobs in Germany by 18 months. To apply for the same you will need the:

  • Passport
  • Proof of health insurance
  • Proof of finances
  • Proof of completion of studies from the respective college/university.
  • Recognition of the educational qualifications in Germany
  • German language proficiency of B1 level as per CEFR is preferred

Jobs in Germany after Graduation

Pursuing higher education from top German universities can land you with lucrative offers owing up to 200,000 EUR (1.7 crore INR) a year. The base salaries are set each year. The average annual salary for international students in Germany is around 22,000 EUR (19.35 lakhs INR). the hourly minimum wage in Germany is 12,41 EUR. This varies from sector to sector and the level of hierarchy at which you are placed in the industry. In case your employer pays you less than the minimum standard wage set, heavy penalties are charged to them by the German government. Discussed below are ROIs of top universities in Germany

University Range of Salary Package(Euros/year) Salary Package (INR)
Bonn University 52,000-100,000 45 lakhs to 88 lakhs
Darmstadt University 47,000-111,000 41 lakhs to 97 lakhs
Dresden University of Technology 53,000-180,000 46 lakhs to 1.5 crore
Frankfurt School of Finance and Management 59,000-200,000 52 lakhs to 1.7 crore
Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences 53,000-165,000 46 lakhs to 1.4 crore
Free University 55,000-110,000 48 lakhs to 96 lakhs
Freiburg University 46,000-180,000 40 lakhs to 1.5 crore
TU Munich 51,000-184,000 44 lakhs to 1.6 crore
Heidelberg University 52,000-138,000 45 lakhs to 1.2 crore
Humboldt University of Berlin 40,000-89,000 35 lakhs to 78 lakhs
Hamburg University 76,000-240,000 66 lakhs to 2 crore
LMU 79,000-152,000 69 lakhs to 1.3 crore
Stuttgart University 76,000-138,000 66 lakhs to 1.2 crore

Note: 1 EUR = 90.81 INR, as of 5th June, 2024

High-Paying Jobs in Germany

Some of the highest-paid job roles belong to automobile, mechanical, and Automotive engineers. Apart from these Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals, Construction, Electrical and Electronics, Medical, Healthcare, and IT are some of the other high-paid roles. The table below discusses some of the Germany jobs for international students:

Job Role Salary (Euro/year) Salary (INR/year)
Financial Analyst 50,000 43.97 lakhs
Financial Manager 66,000 58.40 lakhs
Aerospace Engineer 58,000 51.05 lakhs
Architect 52,000 45.67 lakhs
Business Development Manager 54,000 47.46 lakhs
Civil Engineer 43,000 37.81 lakhs
CEO 137,000 1.2 crore
IT Manager 74,000 64.97 lakhs
Mechanical Engineering Manager 95,000 83,.19 lakhs
Automotive Assembly Manager 70,000 61.55 lakhs
Automotive General Manager 90,000 79.14 lakhs
Automotive Project Manager 72,000 63.05 lakhs
Automotive Purchase Manager 74,000 64.97 lakhs
Automotive Branch Manager 80,000 70.35 lakhs

Note: 1 EUR = 90.81 INR, as of 5th June, 2024

Jobs in Germany: Top-Paying Industries

Some of the sectors in the country offer better salary offers than others. Discussed below are some of the high-paying work for international students in Germany -

Industry Salary (Euro) Salary (INR)
Banking and Finance 46,000 40.47 lakhs
Insurance 57,000 50.15 lakhs
Consulting 54,000 47.51 lakhs
Telecom 46,000 40.47 lakhs
IT 56,000 49.27 lakhs
Transport 58,000 51.03 lakhs
Medicine 100,000 88 lakhs
Utilities 64,000 56.31 lakhs
Engineering 52,000 45.75 lakhs
Legal 67,000 58.95 lakhs
Graphic Designer 34,000 29.91 lakhs
Aerospace Engineering 58,000 51.03 lakhs
Architect 36,000 31.67 lakhs
Business Analyst 53,000 46.63 lakhs
Project Manager 65,000 57.19 lakhs
Civil Engineer 43,000 37.83 lakhs
Mechanical Engineer 50,000 44 lakhs
IT Manager 74,000 65.11 lakhs

Note: 1 EUR = 90.81 INR, as of 5th June, 2024

Salary Statistics in Germany

Your pay scale or salary may also vary depending on multiple factors. Some of these are listed below:

  • City of Employment: Berlin, Hamburg, Munchen, and Frankfurt are the top cities as per the average salaries offered.
  • The Sector of Employment: The highest paying sectors in Germany are medical, IT, legal, and sales and marketing.
  • Government or Private Employment: Average salaries in the private sector in Germany are around 5% higher than in the government or public sector.

When looking for jobs in Germany, another factor that will contribute to the alterations in the salary package is the location. Discussed below are the average salaries drawn in various regions of Germany:

City Salaries (Euro/Year) Salary (INR)
Berlin 52,000 45.75 lakhs
Dresden 41,000 36.07 lakhs
Dusseldorf 51,000 44.87 lakhs
Essen 48,000 42.23 lakhs
Frankfurt 59,000 51.91 lakhs
Hamburg 53,000 46.63 lakhs
Leipzig 45,000 39.6 lakhs
Koln 40,000 35.19 lakhs
Munchen 55,000 48.39 lakhs
Stuttgart 59,000 51.91 lakhs
Hannover 45,000 39.6 lakhs
Bremen 43,000 37.83 lakhs

Note: 1 EUR = 90.81 INR, as of 5th June, 2024

How to Find Jobs in Germany?

You can search for jobs in Germany through various portals like Expatica jobs, EURES, Federal Employment Agency, International Placement Service, Monster, Jobstairs, Jobooh, Kimeta, kununu, etc. Some of the job portals for English-speaking jobs in Germany are Craiglist, English Jobs, The Local, and TopLanguageJobs.

You can find recruitment agencies through German Yellow Pages. Look for agencies that are members of the Federal Employer’s Association of Personnel Service Providers.

Steps to Getting a Job in Germany

  • Getting your qualifications recognized: If you have graduated from a different country, getting your qualifications recognized and you can work in Germany.
  • Writing applications to companies: This means that you have to develop an outstanding resume and cover letter. Cover letters should not be general and should be ideally written per the job and company you are applying for. Companies in Germany will not only focus on your merit and educational background but also focus on your cover letter before offering you a job role.
  • Obtain health insurance: Having health insurance or your medical expenses covered is mandatory when looking for jobs in Germany. Your health insurance should apply from the very first day of your stay.
  • German language proficiency: Having German language skills is always an added advantage. The number of opportunities open for individuals who are proficient in the German language is higher than those who are looking for jobs available to English language speakers.

Part-time Jobs in Germany for International Students

Students from the EU can work up to 20 hours per week during the semester in Germany. Additionally, students from outside of the EU can work 120 full days or 240 half days. The minimum wage for students is 9.60 Euros per hour. This is generally modified once after every two years. Usually, students earn up to 10 to 15 Euros per hour in Germany.

Conditions for Working Part-time jobs in Germany

All international students not from the EU/EEA need to follow some rules. Those are mentioned below -

  • You can only work 120 full days or 240 half days a year.
  • Moreover, you aren’t allowed to be self-employed or freelance.
  • If you wish to work longer, you must get permission from the local employment agency.
  • International students who are in a language course or a preparatory course need to get permission to work from the Immigration Office and Federal Employment Agency.

Part-time Job Opportunities

An abundance of part-time jobs in Germany for English speakers and international students. International students in Germany are allowed to work up to 120 full days or 240 half days per year during their studies

On-Campus Part-time Jobs in Germany

There are plenty of job opportunities for students within the university campus. You can find admin and clerical jobs in the Admissions department or HR department of the university. Some of the highest paying part time jobs in Germany for international students are -

Job roles Hourly wage (EUR) Working hours per week
Admin Related Jobs 10-15 20-30 hours
Academic Assistants 10-20 10-20 hours
Research Assistants 12-25 15-25 hours
Library Jobs 9-15 10-20 hours
University Cafes Support Staff 8-12 15-25
Student Tutors 10-20 5-15 hours
Personal Trainers at Gym 15-30 Variable hours

Off-campus Part-time Jobs in Germany

Germany allows students to do part-time jobs off-campus without the need for a work permit. The most popular off-campus part-time jobs in Germany are paid internships that are part of your program, which gives you professional work experience and remuneration. The list below contains the highest paying part time jobs in Germany for international students-

Job roles wage (EUR) Working hours per week
Paid Internships 500-800 per month 20-40 hours
Industrial Production Assistants 9-15 per hour 20-40 hours
Supermarket/Mall Jobs 9-15 per hour 20-40 hours
Sales & Marketing Jobs 10-15 per hour 20-40 hours
Gas Station Jobs 9-15 per hour 15-30 hours
Assistant Jobs at Media/News Agencies 10-18 per hour 20-40 hours
Support Staff at Cafes & Restaurants 8-12 15-30 hours

Working in Germany after Studies

If you have a German university degree, it will be much easier for you to obtain a residence permit with the right to engage in the German employment market.

After finishing your studies in Germany, you can apply for a residence permit which will be valid for up to 18 months to find a job. To be eligible, you have to produce proof that you can cover your living costs and you are sincere about seeking employment corresponding to your level of academic qualification.

While seeking a permanent position, you are permitted to work part-time for as many hours per week as you want. If you are successful in finding a job within the stipulated time, you can continue to stay in Germany.

EU Blue Card

Offered to non-EU citizens, EU Blue Card allows highly qualified candidates to live and work in Germany.

Eligibility: Recognized university degree and an employment contract with a gross annual income of around 58,400 EU (51.37 lakhs INR). If you are employed in the IT, natural science, mathematics, human medicine, or engineering sector, your gross annual salary should be around 45,552 EU (40.07 lakhs INR) a year.

Benefits:

  • Allows you to stay in Germany for 3 additional months on your job contract.
  • It is limited to 4-years of stay
  • Holding an EU blue card for 33 months makes you eligible for a settlement permit for Germany.

Other German Work Permits and Immigration

Some additional work permits in Germany are -

  • General Employment Visa: It is a temporary work visa that is issued to applicants from non-EU countries. It requires a valid job offer from a German employer and is granted for the entire duration of the job contract.
  • Job Seeker Visa: A job seeker visa has been introduced to fill the labor shortage in the country. This visa comes with a validity of one year, during which you can search for a suitable job in Germany. In other words, you don’t need a work permit to obtain a job seeker visa.
  • Intra-company Transfer Visa: As the name suggests, an intra-company transfer visa is required by the applicants who are transferred to the German branch of their current company.
  • Seasonal Employment Visa: This visa is granted to temporary workers for seasonal employment in various fields such as agriculture, fishing, and so on.

Despite a language barrier, international students looking for jobs in Germany can explore a lot of opportunities with global leaders and the automotive industry and make lucrative salaries. Getting a work visa if you have pursued higher education in Germany is slightly easier than those who directly look for jobs with their foreign education degrees. It can be summed up that for those who plan to study in Germany, plenty of offers for jobs and opportunities are open within the country.

FAQs

Ques: Can international students work in Germany?

Ans: Yes, international students in Germany are allowed to work part-time while studying.

Ques: How many hours can international students work in Germany?

Ans: International students can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic semester and full-time during semester breaks.

Ques: Do I need a work permit to work in Germany as an international student?

Ans: If you are from the EU/EEA or Switzerland, you don't need a work permit. Non-EU/EEA students generally require a work permit, but it's often included in their residence permit.

Ques: Can I find a job in Germany if I don't speak German?

Ans: While knowing German can significantly increase your job opportunities, there are also English-speaking job options available, especially in large cities and international companies.

Ques: How do I find a job as an international student in Germany?

Ans: You can search for job opportunities through online job portals, university career centers, networking events, and student job agencies.

Ques: Are there any restrictions on the type of work international students can do in Germany?

Ans: International students are allowed to work in most types of jobs, but there are restrictions on certain highly regulated professions like medicine or law.

Ques: Do I need health insurance to work in Germany as an international student?

Answer: Yes, health insurance is mandatory for all employees in Germany, including international students. You can either get public health insurance or opt for private insurance.

Ques: Can international students work as freelancers in Germany?

Ans: Yes, international students can work as freelancers in Germany, but they need to ensure they comply with tax and legal regulations.

Ques: Can I extend my stay in Germany after graduation to look for a job?

Ans: Yes, Germany offers a post-graduation residence permit (Aufenthaltserlaubnis) of up to 18 months for graduates to seek employment.

Ques: Are there any restrictions on working hours during semester breaks for international students in Germany?

Ans: No, international students can work full-time during semester breaks without restrictions.

Ques: Can international students do internships in Germany?

Ans: Yes, international students can do internships in Germany, either as part of their study program or independently. However, there may be regulations regarding duration and compensation.

Ques: Do international students need to pay taxes on their income in Germany?

Ans: Yes, international students are subject to German taxation laws on their income. However, there are certain tax exemptions and deductions available, depending on their circumstances. It's advisable to consult a tax advisor for specific guidance.

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