Berlin is one of the perfect cities in Europe to study for international students, because of its cost-effectiveness, top educational institutions, and numerous work opportunities in FinTech, creation, and start-ups. During the term period, part-time jobs in Berlin for students offer opportunities to gain work experience and earn extra money. Although Berlin is more affordable compared to cities like London, Paris, and New York, because most students (even non-EU students) enjoy free tuition and lower cost of living, some international students still face challenges with extra spending. Thus, part-time jobs provide opportunities for students to relieve financial stress while studying in Berlin, and at the same time, accumulate experience for their career growth.
Can International Students Work in Berlin?
Yes, whether you are a domestic student or an international student in Berlin, you are allowed to work. While domestic students and other EU students have more flexibility in working hours. Overall, you must comply with the relevant local rules based on your status. The main difference is in the limitation on working hours per year. In addition, all students are allowed to work no more than 20 hours per week, and international students can work full-time (40 hours per week) during the summer/winter holiday (Vorlesungsfreie Zeit) for internships.
EU/EEA students:
No strict hourly limits
Non-EU students:
120 full days per year, or
240 half days per year
This limitation for international students can ensure their learning progress while making sure students are not exploiting their student visas to work in Germany. The 20-hour threshold is known in Germany as the ‘working student privilege’ (Werkstudentenprivileg). If you work over 20 hours per week, both insurance providers and educational institutions will deem your primary status to have shifted from ‘student’ to ‘worker’. Working beyond this limit will result in the loss of student insurance benefits and may even lead to expulsion from your university.
Salary for Student Jobs in Berlin
According to the latest policy, from 1 January 2026, the cap of tax-exempt income of Mini-job has been raised to €603 per month, and the minimum wage in Germany is €13.90 per hour. The student job salaries are significantly influenced by the minimum wage, and earnings of many part-time jobs for students in Berlin fall in the range of €13 and €16 per hour. Typically, students who work part-time in the service and retail sectors earn a basic salary, while skilled roles in academic, IT or finance can pay more.
If your part-time job can help you earn 10–20 hours/week, it will be €450 – €1,200/month. This can significantly help cover daily expenses — especially food, transport, and utilities. While the major expense for international students in Berlin is rent, uhomes.com can help you save more by offering affordable student accommodation in Berlin with the lowest price from €440/month. And verified listings near Berlin’s major universities include Free University of Berlin, Berlin Institute of Technology, and University of Europe for Applied Sciences (Berlin Campus).
Best Part-Time Jobs for Students in Berlin
There are several types of temporary work opportunities for international students that offer a balance between work and academic study at universities, allowing students to earn a reasonable income.
1. English-Speaker Friendly Jobs
A majority of international students are from English-speaking countries, or their second language is English rather than German. Don’t worry, you still have many opportunities to gain a part-time job in Berlin. For example, baristas in cafes, waiters/waitresses in restaurants, and retail assistants are ideal choices if you don’t speak German fluently. This type of work needs only basic communication and offers great opportunities to practice communication in German. Moreover, international businesses in Berlin that conduct business with English-speaking countries or companies may also offer part-time jobs for English speakers.
2. Werkstudent Jobs
Working Student (Werkstudent) is one of the best part-time jobs for students who have a long-term career plan, especially for those who plan to work in IT, finance, marketing and engineering. Beyond the higher pay (€15–€20/hour), this experience is more valuable for your CV when you are looking for a permanent job after graduation; grade in university is not everything.
3. University Jobs
Part-time work at the university you are studying in is more flexible, and the environment is more student-friendly. More importantly, if you live in student accommodation near your campus in Berlin, you can save time and money on commuting. At university, you can look for opportunities such as a research assistant, a library assistant, and an administrative support. If you aim to develop further academically in the future, a research assistant is very helpful.
4. Flexible Jobs
Considering the skills you have, you can try freelance work in-person, online or remote, especially if you are interested in design, translation and social media. Earn some pocket money using your skills and interests, with flexible hours that don’t interfere with your studies, though the income is somewhat irregular.
How to Find Part Time Jobs in Berlin
Where to Find
There are multiple ways you can easily find part time student jobs in Berlin.
- Online Platforms like Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor are widely used for seeking a job. You can set the filter to browse student part-time jobs in Berlin.
- Use free university resources; major universities in Berlin have career centres, job portals and career events for students who need information or help, such as Freie Universität Berlin, Technische Universität Berlin, and University of Europe for Applied Sciences Berlin Campus.
- Walking in and asking in person is a more direct way. Take your CV directly to cafés, restaurants or retail stores to enquire about part-time vacancies. If the manager is present, you may receive an immediate response rather than anxiously awaiting a call at home. And network with your fellows or ask in Facebook groups for Berlin part-time opportunities, don’t waste any chance.
How to Get
- Prepare a German-Style CV
– Keep it concise (1 page)
– Include a professional photo (optional but common in Germany)
– Highlight skills and experience clearly - Apply as much as You Can
– Apply to multiple jobs daily
– Don’t rely on just one platform - Prepare for Interviews
– Be punctual (very important in Germany)
– Be clear and direct in communication
– Show reliability and willingness to learn
Tips to Find a Part-Time Job in Berlin Faster
1. Use Local Job Platforms First
Zenjob: Best for quick, flexible shifts (e.g. cashier, waiter); fast way to earn money
LinkedIn: Ideal for Werkstudent roles in startups and tech
eBay Kleinanzeigen: Good for local minijobs (cafes, small businesses, pet care)
2. Apply In Person (Cafes & Retail)
Focus on: Mitte, Prenzlauer Berg, Neukölln
Best time: 2:00–4:00 PM
Ask for the shift manager (Schichtleiter) and bring your CV
3. Target English-Friendly Jobs
Startups (operations, support roles)
Delivery platforms (e.g. Wolt, Flink)
Private tutoring (English, Math – higher pay)
4. Prepare Required Documents Early
“Red Card” (food safety certificate)
Required for food/drink jobs
Issued by the health department (~€20)
5. Key Practical Tips
Tax ID: Needed to get paid (issued after Anmeldung)
Referrals (“Vitamin B”): Use Facebook groups for job leads
University job boards (HiWi jobs):
Easier to get
Do not count toward work limit
Conclusion
Finding part-time jobs for students in Berlin is absolutely achievable with the right strategy. By understanding the work regulations, exploring different job options, and using both online platforms and local approaches, you can secure a role that supports your finances and builds valuable experience.
At the same time, since rent is the biggest expense in Berlin, planning your accommodation wisely is just as important. A good balance between part-time income and affordable living will help you make the most of your student life in Berlin.
FAQs
Do you need German to work in Berlin?
No, you don’t necessarily need German, especially for entry-level or international roles. Many startups, tech companies, and trendy cafes in districts like Mitte or Neukölln operate in English. However, your options will be more limited. Jobs in traditional retail, customer service, or local administration usually require at least B1/B2 German.
No German: English-speaking roles (Startups, delivery, international hospitality).
Basic German: More local service opportunities.
Good German: Access to higher-paying, professional office roles and stable career paths.
Is it easy to find a part time job in Berlin?
It depends. Berlin has a massive job market, but competition is high for “English-only” positions.
Timeline: Most students find a job within 4 to 8 weeks if they apply consistently.
Success Factors: Having your “Red Card” (for food handling), a clean German-style CV, and flexibility regarding shift times will significantly speed up the process.
What part-time jobs are good for students in Berlin?
Part-time jobs include Werkstudent, university jobs, Mini-jobs are good for students in Berlin.
Werkstudent (Working Student): Related to your degree. Higher pay (usually €15-20/hr) and great for your CV.
University Jobs (HiWi): Research/admin roles on campus. These are convenient and often do not count towards your 140-day work limit.
Mini-jobs: Ideal for beginners. Tax-free up to €603/month.
Hospitality/Retail: Barista, waiter, or shelf-stocker. Berlin’s tourism industry always needs staff.
What jobs can I do as a student in Berlin?
You can work in most sectors, but the legal form of employment matters:
Standard Part-time: Paying social security.
Minijobs: Tax-free capped at €603/month.
Mandatory Internships: Required by your studies (these don’t count towards your work day limit).
Warning on Freelancing: You are generally NOT allowed to work as a freelancer (e.g., private consultant, Fiverr, or certain delivery platforms) unless you have explicit written permission from the Immigration Office (Ausländerbehörde).
How to find a student mini job in Berlin?
To find a “Minijob” (earning up to €603/month), you should:
Use Apps: Download Zenjob (for flexible shifts) or check eBay Kleinanzeigen.
Go “Walking”: Visit cafes/shops in person during off-peak hours (2 PM – 4 PM) with a printed CV.
Portals: Check the Studentenwerk Berlin job board or local Facebook groups like “English speaking jobs in Berlin.”
Can I work 30 hours a week as a student in Germany?
No, you can not work 30 hours a week during the semester.
The 20-Hour Rule: During lecture periods, you should not exceed 20 hours per week. If you do, you lose your “student status” for insurance purposes, meaning you must pay much higher social security contributions, and it may jeopardise your visa.
The 140-Day Rule: As a non-EU student, you are legally allowed to work 140 full days (or 280 half days) per calendar year.
Semester Breaks: You can work up to 40 hours/week during official university holidays, provided you stay within your 140-day annual limit.
