Mini-job and side job alongside training

In short: A mini-job is marginal employment up to an earnings limit; alongside an apprenticeship a side job is permitted but usually has to be reported and approved.

In more detail: Many apprentices and pupils earn a little extra. Rules apply to earnings (mini-job limit), working time (youth employment protection) and the training itself (side employment in the training contract).

In Depth

Mini-job limit

A mini-job stays exempt from health, unemployment and long-term care insurance up to a monthly income that depends on the minimum wage (minimum wage × 130 ÷ 3). In 2026 the limit is about €603 a month and changes with the minimum wage. Employees usually pay contributions to pension insurance but can have themselves exempted. The employer pays flat-rate charges.

Alongside training

The training contract often states that a side activity must be reported to or approved by the company. The training company may prohibit it if it impairs the training (rest periods, competition, time for vocational school). Total working time must not exceed the legal maximum; for minors the Youth Employment Protection Act applies (at most 8 hours a day, 40 a week, certain rest periods).

Several jobs and taxes

Whoever has a mini-job alongside training must take it into account for tax purposes. Mini-jobs taxed at a flat rate usually trigger no income tax for the employee, but income from the training is normally subject to tax and social insurance. A mini-job is added to a main job if there is more than one, which can lead to social insurance liability.

In practice

• Ask for the contract in writing (working time, pay, leave, illness).
• Minimum wage and leave entitlement also apply in a mini-job.
• Continued pay during illness and paid leave are due.
• If earnings rise too much, contributions change; child benefit and family insurance limits can be affected.
• In case of difficulties, trade unions, the employment agency or the Minijob-Zentrale help.

See also: Youth Employment Protection Act, Training contract, Reading a payslip, Child benefit and the child’s income