Student jobs: who, how, how much, and why?
Are you between 15 and 27 years old and studying in Luxembourg or abroad? In Luxembourg, you can apply for a summer job lasting up to two months.
What are the benefits of working during the summer as a student?
Employment conditions for students in Luxembourg
In Luxembourg, students and those under 18 can easily find seasonal work, especially in the summer. This is quite common starting at age 15.
Student jobs during school breaks
In Luxembourg, companies regularly offer summer part-time jobs. Young residents of municipalities can also participate in community work tailored to their abilities . These summer jobs offer flexible working hours and are paid.
These youth programs generally take place during spring or summer school breaks. Students can, for example, perform gardening work in the municipality’s green spaces. They can carry out other manual labor or provide services within municipal facilities. Young people can also take on small office jobs, such as filing, or assist with administrative tasks.
But regardless of the job, it’s important to know that these jobs for young people are fairly well-paid!
Youth Employment: Work Environment and Legislation
Even though young people have the same working conditions as other employees , a student job has a few specific features.
First, the young person being hired must first sign a specific employment contract with their employer. This contract will define the duration of the assignment and the conditions for its completion
Additionally, the employer must register the young employee with the Joint Social Security Center.
However, these youth jobs do not entitle the employee to paid leave. If a young person wishes to take time off under exceptional circumstances, they must obtain prior approval from their employer. Furthermore, they will not be paid during this absence, regardless of the reason.
It is essential for any student working in Luxembourg to understand the health protocols related to absences. Thus, if you need to know the procedures regarding the medical certificate required by the CNS, you can consult our information on sick leave and employee rights in Luxembourg for more details.
When working in Luxembourg, including for a fixed-term contract or a student job, it is essential to know the steps required to adapt your foreign driver’s license to Luxembourg requirements to ensure a fully legal transition.
Regulated wages for student jobs
The minimum wage for young workers is based on the employee’s age.
- Are you between 15 and 17 years old? Your pay is 75% of the Social Minimum Wage.
- Are you between 17 and 18 years old? The hourlywage is set at 80% of the Social Minimum Wage.
- Starting at age 18, your pay is calculated based on full-time unskilled work (40 hours per week).
Learn more about wages in Luxembourg
Exemptions from social security contributions, except in the case of an accident
In Luxembourg, unlike other jobs, student jobs are partially exempt from social security contributions.
Since the student is covered for accident risk, accidentinsurance contributions apply to the
However, no contributions are deducted for health insurance or pension insurance. In the event of illness, sick days are not covered. The student also does not contribute to retirement pensions or long-term care insurance.
Tax Exemption on Student Contracts
More good news for students: their wages are tax-exempt up to a certain hourly amount!
Note: A student working more than 4 months during a school year loses eligibility for family allowances. This applies if their gross monthly wage is equal to or greater than the minimum wage.
Where to look for a summer job?
Every year, municipalities reach out to their young residents to fill administrative roles or seasonal jobs. Summer activities such as Spillnomëtteger or gardening are the most common positions.
To apply for these jobs, check with your local municipality starting in March or April. The first applicants are the first to be selected.
Temporary employment agencies also list certain summer jobs available to young people. Don’t hesitate to check with them.
You can also visit the jugendinfo.lu website, which is dedicated to young people in Luxembourg, or contact the National Youth Service.
It’s also worth noting that the GovJobs website offers internships to young students.
Why work while you’re a student?
Fund your studies with seasonal jobs
Working during the summer will allow you to save money. Not everyone is lucky enough to receive college scholarships or have parents who can finance their education. By saving starting at age 15 or 16, you give yourself a better chance to focus solely on your higher education later on. You’ll be able to spend all your time studying!
Gain financial independence by working while you study
Earning money as a student allows you to gain financial independence and, therefore, greater autonomy. Student jobs are ideal for this. They let you schedule your work hours around your studies.
Boost your resume with summer jobs
Pay isn’t the only reason to work as a student. Young people who have worked during their studies find it much easier to secure a permanent job after graduation.
Your potential employers will appreciate that you already have experience in the workforce. You demonstrate your ability to work in a corporate environment, with its rules and social interactions. You showcase basic personal skills that are essential for integrating into a company.
All the more reason to apply for student jobs!
Fixed-Term Contracts (CDD) for Students
Students can also apply for part-time fixed-term contract (CDD) jobs outside of school breaks. To do so, they must:
- be at least 16 years old
- be a student:
Under this employment arrangement, the student may work a maximum of 60 hours per month. The salary is set based on the minimum wage and depends on the student’s age. The actual salary is slightly higher than that earned in a typical student job.
To better understand why many young people choose a fixed-term contract or a student job abroad, explore why moving to Luxembourg can be advantageous in such a dynamic environment.
Looking for a job? Here’s how to quickly find work in Luxembourg.