In short
- Students from outside the EU can usually work 140 full days or 280 half days a year.
- Student assistant jobs at your university, and internships your course requires, usually do not count towards this.
- Self-employment and some jobs need the immigration office's approval first.
EU, EEA and Swiss citizens can usually work in Germany without a work permit or an hour limit.
Last checked 3 November 2026. General information, not legal advice.