In 2025, the German government will continue to adjust many important policies related to work, study and living. These changes will directly affect the international student community in Germany, especially young people who intend to pursue vocational training programs in Germany.
So what do you need to prepare? Which changes are opportunities – and which are challenges? SHD Academy will analyze in detail the information that international students in Germany need to know through the following article.
Minimum Wage Increase – Improving Living Standards for International Students
From January 1, 2025, the minimum wage in Germany will increase from 12.41 EUR/hour to 12.82 EUR/hour. This increase was proposed by the Minimum Wage Commission to protect workers' rights and adapt to rising living costs.
For international students studying vocational training (Ausbildung), the increase in minimum wage means that the monthly allowance from businesses also increases.
Part-time work (mini-jobs) are also paid higher, helping students become more financially independent. This is a positive signal, affirming the German government's efforts to support international students and workers.
Part-time salary threshold increased – tax-free income
International students in Germany often work part-time to cover some of their living expenses. This is the type of job where you can earn a certain amount of money without having to pay all of your social security contributions.
Starting in 2025, the income limit for part-time work will increase from 538 to 556 EUR/month. This is a great opportunity for students who want to earn extra income while still complying with German law.
>> Reference: General regulations on working hours in Germany that you should know
Work part-time to cover part of living expenses
International students in Germany are allowed to work up to 20 hours/week during the semester (and full-time during the holidays). This will help them to pay for their own housing, food, and transportation. At the same time, they will be able to save money to help their families in Vietnam financially.
In addition, part-time jobs will help students expand their communication opportunities, integrate and accumulate practical experience.
Increase family income allowance
Other notable changes in 2025:
- Parental income benefit: increased to 2,540 EUR for both, or 1,690 EUR if parents are separated.
- Sibling allowance: increased to 770 EUR/person.
- Start-up grant: low-income students receive 1,000 EUR.
- Housing allowance (Wohnzuschuss): increased to 380 EUR/month for students living away from home.
Germany increases family allowances for students with limited financial means
These supports are especially useful for those from rural areas and families with limited financial resources, thereby creating opportunities for them to access the leading education and economy in Europe.
Increase the blocked account requirement level
From September 1, 2024, the blocked account requirement for a student visa will increase to 11,904 EUR/year, equivalent to 992 EUR/month – instead of 11,208 EUR (934 EUR/month) as before.
This is the amount of money that must be proven to apply for a student visa in Germany. The increase in the blockade level may cause many of you to feel financial pressure at first.
Understanding that, SHD Academy's top criteria when choosing a partner company for students is that the apprenticeship salary must be above the minimum living expenses in Germany, so that students can cover their living and studying expenses. Thanks to that, SHD students do not need to open a blocked account or prove their finances when participating in the program.
SHD students are supported in preparing standard documents and signing contracts with reputable businesses right from Vietnam – helping to simplify visa procedures and ensure finances from the beginning.
Change of D-Ticket train ticket price
From the beginning of 2025, the price of the D-Ticket (a national public transport ticket for students) will increase from 49 EUR to 58 EUR/month. Although the increase is not too large, it will affect the monthly budget of international students.
Trains are a popular means of transportation in Germany.
Most of the German business partners that SHD cooperates with have policies to support travel expenses or pay for the entire D-Ticket for students. International students are not only supported with accommodation and meals, but also have the burden of travel expenses reduced – something that few study abroad centers in Vietnam can guarantee.
The German vocational study abroad market in 2025 continues to be attractive with increasingly favorable policies for international students. However, to maximize opportunities and avoid complicated procedures, you need to be updated with information that international students in Germany need to know through a reputable companion like SHD Academy.
With over 7 years of experience and success in helping hundreds of students successfully set foot in Germany, SHD will accompany you on your journey to conquer your dream from the first days in Vietnam until you have a stable career in Germany.