A Mini Job (also called 450-Euro-Job historically, now updated with new income limits) is a type of part-time employment in Germany designed to allow people to earn a small amount of money with simplified tax and social security rules. Mini Jobs are very popular among students, retirees, and anyone looking for flexible, low-commitment work.
Key Features of a Mini Job
1. Income Limit
- As of 2025, the maximum monthly earning limit for a Mini Job is €538.
- If your earnings stay at or below this threshold, you usually don’t pay income tax or social security contributions.
2. Working Hours
- Mini Jobs are usually part-time and involve limited working hours to keep income within the earnings cap.
- Typically, this means around 8 to 12 hours per week, depending on the hourly wage.
3. Tax and Social Security
- No income tax or social security contributions are deducted from your salary if you earn under the limit and this is your only job.
- The employer pays a flat rate towards social security, but the employee is exempted.
4. Types of Mini Jobs
- Regular Mini Jobs: Small part-time jobs with income up to €538/month, commonly in retail, cleaning, delivery, catering, babysitting, and other service sectors.
- Short-term Mini Jobs: Temporary jobs for less than 3 months or 70 working days per year, regardless of income.
5. Benefits and Protections
- Mini Jobbers have legal employee protections, such as entitlement to vacation days, sick pay, and accident insurance.
- Even though the job is “mini,” workers must have a formal contract.
6. Who Does Mini Job Suit?
- Students who want extra income without heavy paperwork or tax issues
- People who want flexible work hours alongside studies or other commitments
- Retirees or people seeking a low-commitment job
Advantages of Mini Jobs
- Simple to get and manage, with fewer administrative burdens
- No or very low taxes and social security deductions
- Flexibility to fit work around other responsibilities
- Legal employee protections despite low hours and pay
Disadvantages of Mini Jobs
- Limited income — you cannot earn more than €538 per month
- Limited career growth or professional development opportunities
- If you have multiple Mini Jobs or other income, taxation and social security rules become more complex
Examples of Mini Jobs
- Working as a cashier in a supermarket or convenience store
- Delivering food or parcels for courier companies
- Helping in cafés or restaurants as waitstaff or kitchen help
- Babysitting or tutoring on a casual basis
- Cleaning services for private households or companies
How to Get a Mini Job
- Search online job portals with keywords like “Mini Job,” “450-Euro-Job,” or “Teilzeitjob”
- Visit local shops, cafés, or restaurants and ask if they hire Mini Jobbers
- Use university job boards or student services which often advertise Mini Jobs
- Apply directly to companies or agencies specializing in part-time or temporary jobs
Summary
A Mini Job in Germany is a part-time job with a monthly income limit (currently €538), designed to provide flexible work with minimal tax and social security obligations. It’s ideal for students or anyone needing a low-commitment job that doesn’t interfere with studies or other duties. Despite being “mini,” workers have legal protections and rights just like full-time employees.