Minijobs in Berlin: A Complete Guide for International Students
Minijobs are a popular option for international students in Berlin who want to earn extra income while studying. With flexible working hours and minimal tax deductions, Minijobs provide an excellent way to support daily expenses without interfering with academic commitments.
This guide covers everything you need to know about Minijobs in Berlin, including how to find one, salary expectations, tax regulations, working hours, and language requirements.
What is a Minijob?
A Minijob is a type of employment in Germany where an employee earns up to €538 per month (as of the latest update). These jobs are designed to provide flexible work options with reduced tax and social security obligations. Minijobs are ideal for international students because they allow part-time work without affecting student visa conditions.
Who Can Work in a Minijob in Berlin?
Minijobs are available to many individuals, including:
Can international students work in a Minijob?
- EU/EEA students (including Switzerland) can work freely without restrictions.
- Non-EU students can work 120 full days or 240 half days per year, meaning about 20 hours per week during the semester.
- Asylum seekers and refugees may apply for a Minijob, but approval from the Ausländerbehörde (Foreigners’ Office) is required.
Students receiving BAföG (financial aid for German students) should check whether their Minijob earnings will affect their benefits.
How to Find a Minijob in Berlin?
Finding a Minijob in Berlin can be competitive, especially for students who do not speak German. The best ways to find a Minijob include:
Online job portals for Minijobs in Berlin
Many companies post Minijob openings on:
- Indeed.de
- StepStone.de
- Minijob-Zentrale.de
- Kleinanzeigen.de (formerly eBay Kleinanzeigen)
University job boards and career centers
Universities like Humboldt University, Freie Universität Berlin, and TU Berlin have job portals for students.
Facebook groups and social media
Expats and students share job opportunities in Facebook groups such as:
- Jobs in Berlin for English Speakers
- Berlin Startups Jobs
Walk-in applications
Many cafes, restaurants, and retail stores hire students. Walking in with a resume and asking for a job can be effective.
Networking and referrals
Many students find Minijobs through friends, classmates, or professors.
Popular Minijobs for International Students in Berlin
Minijobs are available in various industries. Some of the most common Minijobs for international students include:
- Hospitality jobs: Waiter, bartender, barista, hotel staff
- Retail jobs: Supermarket cashier, clothing store employee
- Delivery jobs: Food delivery for Wolt, Lieferando, Gorillas
- Office jobs: Customer service, administrative assistant, telemarketing
- Tutoring jobs: Teaching English or other subjects
- Babysitting: Working for international families
- Cleaning jobs: Office, hostel, or Airbnb cleaning
Minijob Salary and Taxation in Berlin
How much does a Minijob pay?
The maximum salary for a Minijob is €538 per month.
Do Minijob workers pay taxes?
- If you only have a Minijob, no income tax is deducted, as long as your salary stays within the €538 limit.
- If you have another job in addition to the Minijob, the earnings from the second job may be taxed.
- Employees can sometimes claim tax refunds when filing a tax return.
Do Minijobbers pay for health insurance?
- Students with public health insurance remain covered through their student plan.
- Minijob employees do not contribute to unemployment insurance or health insurance but may have small pension contributions.
Minijob Working Hours and Restrictions
How many hours can you work in a Minijob?
- EU/EEA students: No restrictions, but working more than 20 hours per week may change your tax status.
- Non-EU students: Limited to 120 full days or 240 half days per year, meaning approximately 20 hours per week during the semester.
Can you have multiple Minijobs?
- It is possible to have more than one Minijob, but the total earnings must not exceed €538 per month to avoid taxation.
- If you earn more than €538, regular tax and social security deductions apply.
Language Requirements for Minijobs in Berlin
Do you need to speak German for a Minijob?
- No German required: Food delivery, cleaning, English tutoring, babysitting for expat families
- Basic German helpful (A1-A2 level): Café jobs, retail assistant, hotel cleaning
- Good German required (B1-B2 level): Office jobs, customer service, cashier, sales roles
Even if a job does not require German, basic language skills can improve job prospects.
Documents Required to Get a Minijob in Berlin
Before starting a Minijob, students must provide the following documents:
- Residence permit (for non-EU students) with work permission
- Tax Identification Number (Steuer-ID), received after registering an address in Germany
- Social Security Number (Sozialversicherungsnummer), required for employment
- Bank account (Girokonto) for salary payments
Some employers may also request a student enrollment certificate (Immatrikulationsbescheinigung).
Can a Minijob Lead to a Full-Time Job?
Many students start with a Minijob and later transition into part-time or full-time positions. Some employers offer long-term contracts if the employee performs well. Additionally, work experience in Germany can improve job prospects after graduation.
Tips for Getting a Minijob in Berlin
- Apply early: Minijobs in Berlin are competitive, especially at the start of the semester.
- Be flexible: Employers prefer workers available on weekends and evenings.
- Improve your German: Even basic knowledge can help secure more job opportunities.
- Check your work permit: Ensure your visa allows you to work legally.
- Network: Use university connections, expat groups, and job boards.
Minijobs in Berlin provide international students with a great way to earn extra income while studying. With flexible hours, minimal taxes, and various job opportunities, Minijobs are a popular choice for students looking to gain work experience and support their living expenses.
If you are an international student searching for accommodation in Berlin, KUMMUNI offers fully furnished student rooms starting at €639 per month with zero discrimination in the selection process. Secure a comfortable living space while working your Minijob in Berlin.
