General information

Minimum Wage Rates in Germany in 2025

Germany ranks among the leading European countries in terms of minimum wage. It is no surprise that it remains a top destination for labor migration. In this article, we will present the minimum wage rates in Germany effective from January 1, 2025.

In Germany, as in many other European countries, a minimum wage is in place. It was introduced in 2015 under the Minimum Wage Act. Another wage increase is planned for June 2025.

Minimum Wage in Germany in 2025

The gross minimum wage per hour is now €12.82. In 2024, it was €12.41 gross. This change applies to both full-time employees and those employed in Minijob positions. Workers working 40 hours per week will now earn approximately €2,230 gross per month.

The rate for Minijob positions has increased from €538 to €556 gross per month. A Minijob is a type of permanent contract with a low salary.

The increase in the minimum wage in Germany is part of broader trends across Europe, where many countries are adjusting their minimum wage levels in response to inflation and changes in the economic situation.

Be sure to check how Germany’s minimum wage compares to other European countries in our previous article: Minimum Wage in Europe in 2025.

Minimum Wage Rates in Different Sectors in 2025

Below are the commonly applicable gross minimum wages for employees in various sectors:

Education

  • Educational staff: €19.37
  • Employees with a bachelor’s degree: €19.96

Roofers

  • Skilled workers: €16.00
  • Unskilled workers: €14.35

Electrical Installers

  • €14.41

Cleaning Industry

  • Interior cleaning and maintenance: €14.35
  • Cleaning facades and glass surfaces: €17.65

Temporary Workers (through employment agencies)

  • €14.00 (until 28.02.2025)
  • €14.53 (from 1.03.2025 to 30.09.2025)

Security Personnel at Airports

  • From €16.51 to €22.39

Caregiver / Elderly Care

  • Support staff: €16.10
  • Qualified caregivers (after a one-year course): €17.35
  • Qualified caregivers and elderly care workers: €20.50

Construction Industry

  • Construction worker: rate not yet specified
  • Scaffolder: €13.95

Painters and Varnishers

  • Unqualified workers: €13.00
  • Qualified workers (with a vocational diploma): €15.00

The Minimum Wage Act does not apply to:

  • Youth under 18 years old without vocational education,
  • Vocational school students – regardless of age,
  • Long-term unemployed – during the first 6 months after unemployment ends,
  • Interns,
  • Volunteers.

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