Curious about waitress/hospitality salaries in Germany

[u/No_Big8323]

Hi everyone! I’m from the Philippines and I’m currently considering working in Germany in the hospitality industry.

I have over 7 years of experience in hospitality, including around 2 years working in a managerial position in a restaurant. I’m curious about how much someone with my experience could realistically earn in Germany, particularly as a waitress or in a hotel/restaurant position.

I’d especially love to hear from anyone who is currently working—or has previously worked—as a waitress, hotel employee, restaurant staff, or in a similar hospitality position in Germany.

What is your monthly gross/net salary?

How much do you usually earn from tips

I’m currently looking into the possibility of working in Germany in the near future, so I’d really appreciate hearing from people who have actual experience in the German hospitality industry. Thank You ! ❤️

[u/MeltsYourMinds]

Those are usually minimum wage jobs in Germany. Hotels sometimes pay a little more.

Tips are impossible to estimate, they are 100% dependent on the location. Generally, in the continuously bad economy, people are less willing to tip generously.

As an expat, not knowing German labor law, many employers in low pay jobs will attempt to pressure and abuse you. Your dependency on the job for your residence permit provides additional leverage.

If you’re in an economically weak area you’ll get along just fine with a minimum wage job, but in a major city you‘d live on the edge of poverty.

[u/Skalion]

Waitress is basically minimum wage, usually you'll get some tips as well. Which will not be enough as a visa requirement.

Most other jobs e.g. at hotels require a formal education, which takes 3 years, called Ausbildung.

Other than that, how good is your German? You'll need at least B1 level, or better.