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Working part-time in Germany as a foreign national depends on the type of residence permit or visa you hold. While full-time employment is the most common route under a German work permit, part-time work is also possible in certain conditions. Understanding the rules, limitations, and procedures is crucial to remain compliant with German immigration and labor laws.
1. General Rule: Permit Must Authorize Part-Time Work
In Germany, your right to work part-time hinges on what your residence or work permit explicitly allows. The residence title must either directly permit part-time work or must be flexible enough to allow it with employer approval.
You cannot unilaterally switch to part-time without ensuring your permit supports this change.
2. Eligibility for Part-Time Work by Permit Type
a) EU Blue Card Holders
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The EU Blue Card is issued for highly qualified employment and usually assumes a minimum salary threshold and full-time status.
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Part-time work is only allowed if the salary remains above the required threshold (adjusted annually).
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Any shift to part-time must be reported and approved by the Foreigners’ Authority (Ausländerbehörde).
b) General Employment Residence Permit
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Part-time work is allowed if the employment contract reflects it and the job still meets labor market standards (wage, working conditions, and approval from the Federal Employment Agency if required).
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Employer and job position must remain in line with the permit's conditions.
c) Students and Graduates
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International students may work part-time: up to 120 full days or 240 half-days per year.
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After graduation, those on job-seeking or employment residence permits can take part-time roles if it aligns with their visa’s purpose.
d) Family Members (Spouses)
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Spouses of work permit holders who have an unrestricted work authorization (i.e., “Erwerbstätigkeit erlaubt”) can work full-time or part-time freely.
e) Freelancer and Self-Employed
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Freelancers can choose to work on a part-time basis as long as they meet income requirements and contribute to health insurance and taxes.
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The business plan and financial viability still need to be accepted by the authorities.
3. Key Considerations When Switching to Part-Time
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Salary Thresholds: Particularly important for EU Blue Card holders—switching to part-time must not bring income below the minimum required salary level.
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Work Hours: Germany considers anything under 35 hours/week typically as part-time, though this varies by sector.
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Social Security Contributions: Even part-time jobs may require you to pay into Germany’s social insurance system.
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Reporting Obligations: Changes in work hours must be communicated to the Foreigners' Office and in some cases approved beforehand.
4. Rights of Part-Time Employees in Germany
Under German labor law, part-time employees are entitled to the same basic rights as full-time workers. This includes:
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Pro-rated paid leave
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Equal treatment in the workplace
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Protection against unfair dismissal
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Health insurance and pension coverage (depending on income)
5. When Part-Time Work is Not Allowed
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If your residence permit strictly defines a full-time position, working part-time could violate the terms and lead to legal issues.
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Job seeker visa holders are generally not allowed to work (even part-time), as this visa is for finding employment, not performing one.
Conclusion
Yes, you can work part-time with a German work permit, provided your residence permit allows it and you meet the necessary conditions such as maintaining salary thresholds or job criteria. Always consult with the local immigration office and get official approval before reducing your working hours or changing jobs.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. For specific guidance tailored to your situation, consult the local Foreigners’ Authority or a certified immigration lawyer in Germany.
July 1, 2025
