Germany’s Minimum Pay Rise to €13.90/Hour: What It Means for International Students
With top-notch instruction, internationally recognized degrees, and low or no tuition costs at public colleges, Germany has long been one of the most alluring study abroad locations. Studying in Germany will now be even more accessible as revised student work regulations go into effect in January 2026.
13.90/hour minimum wage has generated a lot of discussion, but the true effects extend well beyond a mere salary increase. Financial sustainability while studying overseas is one of the main issues faced by international students, and this change addresses it.
The Key Updates at a Glance
According to Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs (BMAS), from 2026, international students in Germany will benefit from:
- €13.90 per hour minimum wage
- Up to €603 per month in tax-free earnings
- Permission to work 140 full days per year
While these numbers may look technical at first glance, together they create a much more supportive system for students balancing academics and part-time work.
More Than Just Higher Pay
The headline price of €13.90 per hour initially draws attention. The true benefit, however, is in the way that this salary results in stability.
Students no longer have to put in excessive hours to pay for necessities like rent, groceries, and transportation thanks to increased hourly wages. This makes it possible to strike a better balance between employment and school, which is crucial in a nation that values academic achievement.
Practically speaking, fewer work hours can now pay the same or higher percentage of monthly living expenses, lowering stress and burnout.
Tax-Free Earnings: Keeping More of What You Earn
The updated €603/month tax-free threshold is another crucial change. For international students, this means:
- More take-home pay
- Less complexity around tax deductions
- Better financial planning month to month
Instead of worrying about unexpected deductions, students can budget more confidently, an essential factor when living in a foreign country.
Increased Work Flexibility
Germany now allows international students to work up to 140 full days per year, giving students greater flexibility in choosing when and how they work.
This is especially helpful for:
- Students who prefer working during semester breaks
- Those managing demanding academic schedules
- Students seeking internships or short-term work experience
Rather than being forced into rigid work patterns, students can align employment with their academic calendar.
Real-World Experience That Adds Value
Beyond finances, part-time work in Germany offers something equally important: practical exposure in an international environment.
Working while studying helps students:
- Build professional networks
- Improve language and communication skills
- Understand European workplace culture
- Strengthen their CV for future global opportunities
For many, this experience becomes a stepping stone toward post-study employment in Germany or elsewhere in Europe.
What This Means for 2026 Intake Students
For students planning to apply for the 2026 intake, these updates make Germany an even more strategic choice. Lower financial pressure, better earning potential, and increased flexibility combine to create a more student-friendly ecosystem.
This doesn’t mean studying abroad becomes “easy” but it does mean it becomes more manageable, realistic, and sustainable.
Final Thoughts
Germany’s €13.90/hour update isn’t just a policy change, it's a signal. A signal that international students are valued not only as learners, but as contributors to the academic and economic ecosystem.
For students dreaming of quality education without overwhelming financial strain, Germany continues to stand out as a destination that balances opportunity with affordability.
If you’re planning your study abroad journey, this update is one more reason to take Germany seriously. Want to know more? Chat with me today.
