Germany Student Work Rights 2026
International students with a German Student Visa can work while they study. After graduation, they can apply for an 18-month post-study work visa.
Students can work on-campus or off-campus during their studies. Part-time employment opportunities are widely available in many sectors, and work can help cover living expenses and build experience.
The German Student Visa allows students to work up to 120 full days or 240 half days per year without a special work permit. If employment goes beyond those limits, additional permit applications are required.
After finishing their studies, graduates can apply for an 18-month post-study work visa. This gives them time to look for a job related to their field of study and to gain practical experience in Germany.
During the post-study period, graduates can work in any job while they search for work in their chosen field. If they move into longer-term employment, they can transition toward a long-term work visa.
Questions about working & jobs in Germany
Can international students work in Germany while studying?
Yes. Students with a German Student Visa can work during their studies, on-campus or off-campus.
How long can students work without a special work permit?
They can work up to 120 full days or 240 half days per year without requiring a special work permit.
What happens after graduation?
Graduates can apply for an 18-month post-study work visa to search for a job related to their field of study, and they can work in any job during that period.
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