Minijobs

Minijobs, in Germany, refer to a form of marginal employment known as geringfügige Beschäftigung. These jobs are defined by earning up to a fixed monthly income threshold, which as of July 2022 was raised to 520 euros. In addition to the standard minijob category, there is a related form called kurzfristige Beschäftigung (short-term employment), which covers work for up to 3 months or 70 days in a calendar year, regardless of earnings.

In a minijob, the employee typically pays no income tax and incurs only minimal social security contributions unless they choose to participate in pension insurance. The employer bears the bulk of social security costs for the arrangement and must report the job to the Minijob-Zentrale, a central office of the Federal Employment Agency. This administration helps ensure the job remains within the legal threshold and that contributions are handled properly.

Minijobs are common in sectors such as retail, hospitality, domestic work, gardening, and other part-time or auxiliary roles. They are often used by students, retirees, or workers seeking flexible, low-commitment work. The arrangement can provide income and introductory work experience while offering some protection through social security coverage the employer provides.

Critically, minijobs are designed to offer flexible, low-barrier employment but can limit earnings-related social security benefits and unemployment protection compared with regular salaried employment. Workers may also have the option to contribute to pension insurance and later build pension rights through continued participation. The format is regulated to balance employer flexibility with basic worker protection.