Working and Social Security system in Germany
Home Study in Germany Working and Social Security system in Germany
Can I work in Germany as a foreign student?
When is social security contributions due?
Mini Job (small jobs) for foreign students
Internship while studying
If during the course of study, an internship is compulsory and prescribed in the study and examination regulations, then the salary is always exempt from social security. As proof, the employer has to submit a certificate of enrollment. If it is a non-mandatory internship but in line with the success of study and the wages are less than 400, – EUR per month then social insurance contributions do not have to be paid. However, it must concern the first desired degree, an example; a PhD does not come in this category. An internship before or after the study is not considered as a social-security-free internship.
Working during the semester:
Where can I get a social security number / social security card?
People who take up employment for the first time in Germany need a social security card. This applies to the vast majority of foreign students. The social security card should be applied for by the first employer. The mini-job application must be submitted at the mini-job headquarters and for employment with social security; a public health insurance company has to be contacted. The employer then receives the social security number and the employee (student) receives his/her social security card sent by mail. The social security card is valid for a life time and should be kept well.
This information is supplied without liability.