What Indian Students Should Know About Working Full-Time During Semester Breaks in Germany

23 July 2025

Germany is one of the strongest among the options of destinations for Indian students. With its highly ranked universities, low tuition fees, and work-permit liberal visa policies, the nation offers a great combination between academic study and practice. Although the nation offers such a good package, a typical worry for the majority of Indian students is whether they can work full-time over the vacation periods. The answer is yes but with several significant conditions and changes that apply to all students.

Know Student Working Rights in Germany

Indian and other foreign students in Germany are eligible to work with their course of study. Students are certified by the German government to work 120 full days or 240 half days per annum. Nevertheless, during officially approved semester holidays, students can work full-time as long as the holiday is distinctly defined by their university calendar.

This flexibility enables the students to gain work experience and some extra cash to help them keep their cost of living. It comes in particularly handy for those in the third nations like India, where it may be very hard to take care of finances in a foreign land.

What Qualifies as a Semester Break

Not all gaps between classes are semester breaks. Semester breaks in Germany are legally defined periods of time, normally February and March (following the winter semester) and July and September (following the summer semester). The students must check precise dates with their university. If the university issues a confirmation letter or calendar stating the divisions of these breaks, it acts as a reminder for the student and employer to comply with legislation.

Germany in 2025 still retains its flexible labor policy for foreign students. However, authorities are now serious about proper documentation. Part-time workers among the students during school breaks must ensure that the employer reports employment to the local tax agency and continue attending an approved school. Academic work should not interfere with working hours, and health insurance coverage must be maintained.

As a bonus, students who earn more than a threshold (€538 monthly in mini-jobs or more than €6,456 annually) may have to pay tax, although they are generally able to reclaim this on a tax return.

Why It Matters

These breaks during semesters are an ideal opportunity for most Indian students to get industry exposure, update their CV, and develop a professional network in Germany. Temporary on-campus placement is usually arranged by industries such as warehousing, IT, logistics, and hospitality during breaks. It’s a practical manner of working and learning without violating visa regulations.

We at BCES Admissions Abroad walk Indian students step by step through university application, visa process, and post-admission procedures like rights to work. Call us now at +91 9319996328 and begin your study experience in Germany without any hesitation.