Proposals have previously been introduced by the Commission.
Germany's Minimum Wage to Increase to €13.90 Per Hour from January 2026
Starting from January 1, 2026, the minimum wage in Germany will rise to €13.90 per hour, affecting millions of workers, including mini-jobbers. This significant change will impact the hourly wage mini-jobbers must legally receive, potentially increasing their earnings if they work a few hours.
The Minimum Wage Commission's decision to increase the minimum wage was not made lightly, given the country's challenging economic situation. The rise in the cost of living is a primary reason for this adjustment.
The increase from the current 2025 level to €13.90 per hour will have a notable impact on mini-jobbers. While the specific change in the allowed maximum monthly earnings or hours for mini-jobs after January 1, 2026, is not yet detailed, it is likely to be influenced by this wage hike.
The increase in the minimum wage typically implies a recalibration of the total earnings threshold for mini-jobs, which are commonly defined by monthly earning limits. For instance, the income limit for mini-jobbers has increased from €538 in 2024 to €556 per month as of the current date.
The increase in the minimum wage to €13.90 per hour will provide a significant boost to the earnings of mini-jobbers, potentially helping them cover expenses such as food, school supplies, and clothing. However, employees, especially mini-jobbers, must be cautious as overtime and additional shifts could put their status at risk due to staff shortages.
In addition to the 2026 increase, another increase to €14.60 per hour is planned for January 1, 2027. This will provide an additional €0.70 compared to 2026. By 2026, mini-jobbers can potentially earn a total of €603 per month due to the increased minimum wage.
The Minimum Wage Commission is responsible for issuing recommendations on the statutory minimum wage every 24 months. The commission's decision on the minimum wage increase was not easy, and concrete details on further increases in the minimum wage beyond 2027 remain to be seen.
In summary, the minimum wage in Germany will rise to €13.90 per hour from January 1, 2026, benefiting millions of people, particularly mini-jobbers who will see a change in their hourly earnings to comply with the new wage. The specific change in allowed maximum monthly earnings or hours for mini-jobs after January 1, 2026, is not yet detailed, but it is likely to be influenced by this wage hike. The increase will provide a significant boost to the earnings of mini-jobbers and potentially help cover expenses such as food, school supplies, and clothing. However, employees, especially mini-jobbers, must be cautious as overtime and additional shifts could put their status at risk due to staff shortages.
The Minimum Wage Commission's decision to increase the minimum wage might impact personal-finance policies for some individuals, as the rise in the allowed maximum monthly earnings for mini-jobs could adjust in accordance with the wage hike. This potential change in income limits could provide a substantial improvement in the finance business of mini-jobbers, enabling them to cover expenses such as food, school supplies, and clothing more comfortably.
