Study part-time on full-time work visa in Germany

In Germany, if you have a full-time work visa (such as a residence permit for the purpose of employment or an EU Blue Card), you are typically allowed to study part-time, but there are a few key considerations:

1. General Rule for Full-Time Work Visa Holders:

• You are primarily in Germany for employment purposes. Your work visa is tied to your job and your employment status, so working full-time is your main priority.

• However, there is no general restriction that outright prohibits you from studying part-time while working full-time, as long as your studies do not interfere with your primary job or violate any conditions of your work visa.

2. Study Restrictions:

• Part-Time Studies: You are generally allowed to study part-time while working full-time. This could include enrolling in evening courses, weekend classes, or other flexible study programs.

• If you want to study at a university or higher education institution in Germany, it is important to ensure that the program is part-time and does not require a full-time commitment, as this could potentially conflict with your work hours.

3. Work Visa and Study Conditions:

• While your main activity must remain employment, part-time studies are usually allowed if they don’t negatively impact your ability to fulfill your work duties.

• If you decide to pursue full-time studies or a full-time degree program (such as a bachelor’s or master’s degree), this could require a change of status to a student visa, depending on the situation.

4. EU Blue Card Holders:

• If you hold an EU Blue Card (which is for highly skilled workers), you also have the ability to study part-time while maintaining your employment. The EU Blue Card allows for more flexibility, including studying part-time alongside your work.

5. Additional Considerations:

• Workload Balance: Keep in mind that managing both full-time work and part-time studies can be challenging, so it’s important to ensure that the study program is flexible enough to fit around your work schedule.

• Employer’s Approval: Depending on the nature of your job, it might be advisable to inform your employer about your study plans, especially if it could impact your working hours or responsibilities.

In Summary:

Yes, you can generally study part-time while working full-time with a full-time work visa in Germany, as long as the studies are part-time and do not interfere with your primary employment. If you decide to pursue full-time studies, you might need to apply for a student visa instead, depending on the circumstances. Always check with the local Ausländerbehörde (immigration office) to ensure compliance with the specific conditions of your visa.