Getting started

Working in Germany can contribute a lot to your German language skills and help develop you CV. Many student institutions have their own 'job shop’, which displays part-time and holiday vacancies and may issue job vacancy bulletins.

In finding a willing employer you have to supply your passport, and all the regular application information: name, address, phone number, school where you study and your residence permit. Many student institutions have their own 'job shop’, which displays part-time and holiday vacancies and may issue job vacancy bulletins.

In finding a willing employer you have to supply your passport, and all the regular application information: name, address (zip code included), phone number, school where you study and your residence permit. The careers service can also provide (international) students with extensive information and advice about employment, training /further study and help students with job-hunting and making applications in German.

Before taking a job, students should think carefully about how much time they will have available. Success on their course must be their priority. Studies may be intensive and demanding therefore students should be realistic about the amount of time having a part-time work will take. Many students find that working part time helps improve their German, but students must be careful not to let work interfere with their studies.

Looking for a job is seldom easy for any student. For the international student, the job search process can be confusing. Students may lack an understanding of the German employment regulations, or perhaps they are unaware of the impact their career choice has on their job search. Students may also be unsure about their role as the student job-seeker and the resources used by the German employers to find candidates.

Therefore it is important to prepare well in advance and gather as much information as possible. Do you have time to work as well when you are studying? If so then:

(1) First of all check if you’re eligible for working in Germany, and if so, see how many hours a week you can work. For certain types of work programs, you may want to get a visa before coming to Germany.

(2) Start searching for the job you want.

(3) To apply for a job, you may want to create a German-style CV and write a cover letter.

(4) Prepare yourself to be invited to one or more job interviews.

(5) Once you have started working you have to start adapting to the culture of the place you’re going to work at and you’ll have to deal with issues such as tax. You also may need to open a German bank-account.

Click on the link for more information about working in Germany