Starting in March 2024, Germany has made it easier for international students to work alongside their studies, as part of new reforms aimed at addressing labor shortages in key sectors such as IT, education, and healthcare. These changes, brought about by the second phase of the Skilled Worker Immigration Law, are expected to benefit the 450,000 international students currently studying in Germany.

Key Changes for International Students

1. Increased Working Hours
   Under previous regulations, international students were limited to working 120 full days or 240 half days per year. The new rules now extend this limit to 140 full days or 280 half days annually. Alternatively, students can work up to 20 hours per week, potentially earning around €250 weekly at the current minimum wage.
2. Pre-Study Employment
   Students entering Germany on a ‘study application visa’ can now work part-time while preparing to apply to universities. This nine-month visa allows students to take up jobs while completing language courses or other preparatory studies, making the visa process more manageable compared to the previous requirement of full financial self-support.

Relaxed Requirements for Apprentices

Germany has also eased the rules for individuals seeking apprenticeships. Applicants can now enter the country with a B1 German level (previously B2) and stay for up to nine months to search for vocational training. The upper age limit for apprenticeship seekers has also been increased from 25 to 35 years, allowing more people to qualify for these programs.

Post-Graduation Flexibility

After graduating from a German university, students can remain in the country for up to 18 months to search for employment. Under the new rules, graduates are no longer restricted to working in fields directly related to their degrees, providing more flexibility in career options. Additionally, it is now easier to switch to an EU Blue Card or Skilled Worker Visa, with the salary threshold for the Blue Card lowered to €45,300 or €41,041.80 for bottleneck professions such as healthcare.

Germany’s Growing Popularity Among International Students

Germany continues to be a leading destination for international students, ranking third globally after the US and the UK. The number of international students in Germany has grown by 28% over the last decade, with the top student groups coming from India, China, and Syria.

With the new law in place, Germany is set to attract even more students by providing them with better employment opportunities during and after their studies. Further reforms, including the introduction of a points-based opportunity card for skilled workers, are expected in June 2024, making it easier for international talent to find employment in the country.

These changes reflect Germany’s commitment to strengthening its position as a global center for higher education and skilled labor.