Germany to Raise Minijob Income Threshold to €603 in 2026

The German federal government has confirmed that the monthly earnings cap for minijob employees will rise to €603 starting 1 January 2026. The adjustment is directly tied to increases in the statutory minimum wage and is designed to offer both employers and employees a broader earning margin within the minijob framework.

The higher limit will allow workers to earn more without leaving this employment category, which is particularly attractive due to its reduced social security obligations.

What Is a Minijob and How Many People Work in One?

A minijob is a form of marginal employment in Germany characterized by limited working hours, reduced social insurance contributions, and a strict monthly income ceiling. It is widely used by students, retirees, and part-time workers seeking supplementary income.

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Currently, an estimated 6.9 million people hold a minijob, making it one of the most common forms of flexible employment in the country. The new regulation will therefore have a direct impact on the financial planning of millions of households.

Under the revised system, employees will be able to earn more while remaining within the minijob category, while employers will be required to adjust payroll calculations accordingly. The government has also announced that the threshold will rise again in 2027, reaching €633, in line with the planned increase in the statutory minimum wage.

Germany’s Minijob 2026 reform represents a significant improvement for low-income and flexible workers, offering enhanced financial stability. The change is expected to influence a large segment of the labor market, affecting both workers’ purchasing power and employers’ operational planning.