What is a “Mini-Job”?
A mini-job, also called a “450-euro” job, is meant to be a part-time job. The job itself is a job that is not subject to compulsory insurance. This means that if you have no other income, the job does not ensure that you are covered by social security.
Having a Mini-job enables you to can earn some extra income on the side while you are studying, or if you are a pensioner or a stay-home parent or even when you are already employed somewhere else let’s say on a temporary or part-time basis.
What categorizes a job as a Mini-job?
- A mini-job is a marginal job for which you cannot earn more than €520 per month. It is crucial that you do not earn more than €6240 a year as a “mini-jobber”.
- It often includes short-term employment for a few weeks or months
Labour law applies to mini-jobbers as just as it applies for other regular employees thus Mini-jobbers are also entitled to the statutory minimum wage and vacation days. However when it comes to social contributions, Mini-jobbers are not required to pay into long-term care and unemployment insurance. In order to be exempted from the pension insurance, you should inform your employer that you would like to be exempted from the compulsory pension insurance, otherwise, part of your wages will be directly deduced and paid into pension insurance. This means you will earn less than you may have expected. It is still important that you have at least a basic health insurance coverage. Talk to you insurance provider for options.
There are many numerous mini-jobs available in the hospitality, catering, retail or trade sector. Some mini jobs are offered by private individuals, people who are looking for a gardener, cleaner, domestic helper or babysitter.