Can part-time work earnings cover my living expenses in Germany?

Yes, part-time work earnings can significantly help cover your living expenses in Germany.

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during the semester (up to 140 full days or 280 half-days per year). The minimum wage is €13.90/hour (as of Jan 2026), so working 20 hours weekly could earn you about €1,112/month before taxes.

Typical monthly living costs range from €900 - 1,200, depending on the city and lifestyle. In major cities with higher expenses, you may need to budget carefully or seek higher-paying roles - such as "Werkstudent" (working student) jobs, which often pay €14 - 18/hour and provide relevant experience.

While part-time work can cover much of your living costs, it may not fully meet all expenses, so careful planning is important.