Working and studying belong together. As long as the part-time job doesn't take up too much time and your studies don't suffer, a student job is a great thing, even for international students. They just have to pay more attention than their German fellow students. You can find up-to-date information on the subject of jobs at the Studierendenwerke.
Work permit
Students from the old EU member states, the EEA states and Switzerland are equal to Germans under labour law and do not require the approval of the Federal Employment Agency to take up employment.
A transitional arrangement applies to students from the new EU member states. As EU citizens, they enjoy freedom of movement and therefore no longer require a residence permit. Under labour law, however, they are still subject to the same regulations as third-country nationals.
Students from third countries who are enrolled at a German university may work 120 full or 240 half days per year without having to obtain approval from the Federal Employment Agency. Employment as an academic or student assistant at universities, academic institutions or in student services (e.g. as a tutor in a hall of residence) also does not require approval and is not subject to a time limit, i.e. can also be carried out. However, the foreigners authority must be consulted, as it decides on a case-by-case basis whether and to what extent it is an academic auxiliary activity.
Anyone who violates the regulations is committing an offence. This may result in a fine. The DAAD explains labour law in German and English. You can also find information from the German Student Union (DSW). The German Trade Union Confederation also addresses employed students.
Jobs
The wage level for the ‘typical’ student job varies greatly. The minimum wage in 2024 is €12.41. Jobs at the university itself are generally exempt from work permits.
The University of Wuppertal's Career Service provides you with a wealth of information for your future employment.