Minijobs in Germany: earnings limit, rules and how to apply
Minijobs are popular with students, parents, retirees and anyone looking for extra income. Here are the rules – and a quick way to apply.
A Minijob is marginal employment (geringfügige Beschäftigung) up to a monthly earnings limit. Restaurants, supermarkets, cleaning companies, couriers and offices all hire minijobbers.
The earnings limit
The limit is linked to the minimum wage and is €603 per month in 2026. If you have several minijobs, your combined earnings must stay under the limit.
Tax and insurance
- As an employee you usually pay no tax or social security contributions – the employer pays flat-rate contributions.
- Pension insurance applies by default; you can opt out.
- A Minijob does not provide health insurance – you need separate cover (family, student or other insurance).
Your rights
Minijobbers have the same basic rights as other employees:
- at least the statutory minimum wage (€13.90 per hour in 2026)
- paid holiday
- sick pay
- pay on public holidays
Short German application
Betreff: Bewerbung für den Minijob als Aushilfe
Sehr geehrte Damen und Herren,
ich suche einen Minijob und habe Ihre Anzeige für eine Aushilfe gesehen. Ich habe bereits in einem Café gearbeitet und bin zuverlässig und freundlich.
Ich kann dienstags und donnerstags ab 15 Uhr sowie samstags ganztags arbeiten und sofort anfangen. Meinen Lebenslauf finden Sie im Anhang.
Mit freundlichen Grüßen
Sofia García
Tel. 0152 55566677
The key information is when you are available – for minijobs it often matters more than experience.
More on applying by email: Email job application in Germany.
Frequently asked questions
Can I have a Minijob alongside my main job?+
Yes, one Minijob next to a main job is usually free of tax and contributions for you. With a second Minijob the rules change.
Can international students do a Minijob?+
Yes, but check the working-time limits in your residence permit.
Do I get a contract for a Minijob?+
Yes. A Minijob is a regular employment relationship and your employer must give you the key terms in writing.
Don't want to type every cover letter?
Jobmir finds matching jobs at the German Federal Employment Agency and writes a separate German cover letter for each company. You review and approve – it goes out in your name, and replies come straight to you.
Start for free