How To Make Money Online In Germany (12 Best Ways)

The concept of work from home or remote work was nearly unimaginable even a decade back and many couldn’t imagine doing online jobs in Germany. Now it is considered the new normal, especially since the lockdown due to the global pandemic.

The internet has opened up new vistas and working online means no more long commutes followed by longer working hours. I have decided to start the UK Education Blog in 2018 as a side hustle while working full-time as a teacher. It has enabled me to now work as a blogger and online media strategist for ClickDo Ltd. full-time while living a digital nomad lifestyle. And yes, I love it! Read all about my first digitally inspired summer in 2018.

You could start a profitable career from your kitchen table, work when you want, enjoy your free time, and make an impact. You could potentially become a digital nomad or digital entrepreneur. It is easier than ever as long as you have gained some digital skills like SEO, digital marketing or simply how to use Microsoft Office and a web browser.

Learning these skills has never been easier, thanks to the abundance of free resources available online. Thousands of YouTube tutorials can guide you through the basics, while platforms like SeekaHost University offer more structured learning opportunities. I teach a course on SEO copywriting there, and you can also find some German WP tutorials of mine on the SeekaHost YT channel like this one:

 

I have been working online from home as a copywriter, blogger and marketer for a few years now. I have written many guides about earning money online as it has so many advantages.

Check out some of my money guides:

Best Work From Home & Online Jobs in Germany

1. Translator

This is the perfect job if you are well versed in English and German or any other languages in combination with German. Translation has become a vital task as global trade has grown. Almost all business documents, deeds, affidavits, and memorandums need translation into English for circulation among international clients. It helps if you have a diploma or degree in the English language or target language, but it is not mandatory. Of course, without certification, you would need to prove your grasp of English or the target language for translation in the first few bottom-dollar projects. If your work is good enough, then with experience, a great case study portfolio, and positive client reviews, the need for certification fades. Some online job websites and search engines also give you the option to show your skills through tests they provide. This can increase trustworthiness.

Of utmost importance is understanding that a translator translates not only words but also the spirit of the content and message a company or client wants to convey. Your web content, for example, must be more than the sum of the different content parts and reflect the sentiment of the original, but with a matching cultural angle. German translation services accommodate various sectors, such as law, health care, and finance, which you will need to research more on if you want to specialise in your translation skills. The industries above will require you to undergo training that’s tailored to the field you will specialise in before you can apply as a certified or sworn German translator to start a career in these industries. With over 130 million language speakers and about six countries considering German as their official language, you rest assured knowing that as a translator, there will always be a demand for your services. In 2024, the average annual salary for a translator in Germany is €32,369.

You can listen to the interview I conducted with my close friend Alexandra Bekavac, who is a sworn translator in Germany, to understand more about her journey and how she earns a living from translating:

Let me tell you that British and German humour is very different so if a client website were telling a joke or a funny slogan, your job would be to make it sound funny in both languages. When I helped translate content and documents for a Swiss-German educational website called Bambino Learncare into English, it was challenging due to the differences in the national and regional public and political systems influencing education. So, translating from German means you don’t just speak for Germans, but also Austrians or Swiss in some cases, which is exciting and may open up many more online work opportunities.

2. Blogger

Creating your own domain and blog is exceptionally satisfying and can pay committed bloggers handsomely. The first step is to learn how to start a blog, just like I did through WordPress and I explain how you can get started in just a day with the new Blog Hosting Control Panel the SeekaHost App offers:

If you have a passion for something, share it with the world and get paid when others visit your blog. On average, bloggers in Germany can earn between €25,000 and €60,000 annually, with hourly rates ranging from €20 to €40. You can check out the top German bloggers to see how they do it! If you want to learn more about how to monetise a blog then read my extensive blogging monetisation guide here:

Of course, it goes without saying that your blog posts must attract many readers to be engaging, easy to read, relatable, and show that you have adequate domain knowledge. You’ll also need to have some professional SEO and Blogging skills to get it ranked high on search engines so that people find it. You can take SeekaHost University online courses to get on top of that and I have been using WordPress Hosting to achieve fast loading speeds and a control panel that allows me to track and analyse my website’s stats here with this blog, which now attracts over 1000 visitors monthly.

Check my analysis out here:

Once you have built your blog successfully, which can take months including customising it (tip: find many useful WordPress, SEO and blogging tutorials on the SeekaHost YouTube Channel), it is time to promote it through SEO, social media marketing and guest posting and at ClickDo we offer various media placement platforms to help with this. This will ensure you attract enough readers so that your blog can be monetised in several ways. Affiliate marketing, selling ad space, e-courses, eBooks and many more avenues make this a lucrative field.

Find out how the top 100 UK bloggers and influencers like Joe Wicks earn money with their blogs and social media channels. You will discover that blogging offers multiple avenues as many are also successful vloggers on YouTube and earn an income through various online sources.

3. Data Entry

In Germany, the estimated total pay for a Data Entry professional is €49,875 per year, with an average salary of €45,000 annually. The task itself is quite simple. You are required to input a large number of data into a prescribed format, usually from Excel to a database website. There are two caveats:

Speed and Accuracy: To excel in data entry, you need to type at a very high speed—at least 60 words per minute (WPM), though speeds of 90 WPM or higher are often preferred by clients. This speed needs to be coupled with exceptional accuracy. Typically, you’ll be expected to maintain an accuracy rate of 95% or higher, with some positions requiring you to hit 22,500 keystrokes per hour. These standards ensure that the data you enter is both correct and completed within tight deadlines, a common demand in industries that rely heavily on data integrity.

The best way to prepare is to learn to type using any of the dozens of free typing software available online. Also, learn to use an ergonomic keyboard for better quality work. Otherwise, you would burn out in a year. This field also has a considerable number of fly-by-night operators who do not pay. Cater to a small and dependable clientele who regularly provide you with work. I provide more tips on highly rated online job sites in the Make Money Online Kindle Book, where I mainly cover international job sites many Germans also use such as Fiverr, Upwork and more.

4. Online Surveys

It is the most straightforward work-from-home job and also pays the least. Opinion polls and surveys help companies better understand the customer’s needs. The questions might be about buyer psychology (e.g., your feelings when purchasing/unboxing), taste (colour, material), or financial (what is too expensive/affordable) in nature. The information is rarely personally identifiable but rather an insight into a typical person’s mind from a marketer’s perspective. Several platforms offer surveys, and there is very little labour involved in filling up questionnaires. The average earnings from online surveys in Germany can vary based on several factors, including the survey site, the number of surveys you complete, and your demographics. Generally, you can expect to earn around $2 – $5 per hour on average.

This is one of the best WFH hustles while working full-time in your main job.  Doing online surveys, however, does not lead to a skill set that would enable you to build on a career. Better options therefore are side hustles like working as a virtual assistant as it can be done in an hour while you earn some extra cash rather than rewards or tokens while you hone skills like admin tasks or email or social media marketing.

5. Content Writer/Copywriter

It is a writing job similar to a blogger. But apart from that, they share very little in common. As a copywriter, you are not going to write about your passion but what your client wants and needs. In 2024, the average annual salary for a copywriter is €40,904. It could be a sales letter, a website’s About Us page, a blog post with specific keywords inserted brilliantly into the text, and a myriad of more similar tasks, which I describe in more detail in my portfolio section and my blog posts here about content writing jobs and business ideas. What is needed is a good grasp of language, extensive vocabulary, ability to research quickly, formulate thoughts, and pen them down in simple, lucid sentences that appeal to a reader. Besides, you would need innate curiosity because the topics you may write about could be as varied as travel to Serengeti to the best ten DSLR cameras under Euro 1000.

Read some of my articles about working online as a copywriter here:

Or check out some of my case studies in my portfolio to get an idea of how diverse web content writing can be. To see how popular this role is and how many job opportunities you may find, check out the 4 Most Popular Copywriter Jobs And Content Writer Jobs Platforms For Freelance Writers.

As the digital world continues to expand, the demand for skilled copywriters remains strong. Whether you’re looking to supplement your income with freelance work or aiming to build a full-time career, copywriting offers a flexible and rewarding path. With the right skills and mindset, you can tap into this growing market and create a successful online career. However, with the rise of AI, the role of copywriters is shifting—AI tools can handle basic tasks, pushing copywriters to focus on creativity, strategy, and crafting content that resonates on a deeper level.

6. SEO

SEO means search engine optimisation. It is how a website climbs up the search engine page ranking algorithm. Several distinct tasks are performed by the SEO industry. Some of these include keyword analytics, traffic measurement, backlink monitoring, etc. No formal training is required, but an SEO certification or even a free MOOC course would help you understand the industry better. You obviously cannot handle the whole SEO process at first, and it is best to start off as an assistant who works from home. The sky is the limit for earning as your skills improve. In Germany, the average pay for an SEO Specialist is €69,289 per year or €33 per hour. The typical salary range for an SEO Specialist is between €49,473 and €83,632.

SEO is a vital skill for many online jobs and if you want to be successful online in Germany, you will have to learn important keywords and how to implement them in your texts so that it attracts the right audience. This is why at SeekaHost University I and my ClickDo colleagues share their SEO skills and wisdom, which can be applied in any language with the right SEO tools. Fernando Raymond, the #1 SEO consultant at ClickDo, who is also a course instructor at SeekaHost University, shares many SEO tips on his blog. You should read his latest guide about PBN SEO to understand the promising SEO strategies he uses to rank hundreds of websites.

7. Virtual Assistant

Virtual assistants offer online administrative support to firms worldwide. With so many start-ups, there is a need for someone to maintain their books of accounts, prepare payroll, and attend to the nitty-gritty of running an office. A virtual assistant works full-time for a company or part-time for several and assists with the management of all office tasks. In Germany, the average gross salary for a virtual assistant is €35,770 per year or an hourly rate of €17. An entry-level virtual assistant with 1-3 years of experience earns an average salary of €27,963, while a senior-level virtual assistant with 8 or more years of experience earns an average salary of €42,757.

From writing emails to drafting circulars and proofreading press releases – it is all in a day’s work for a virtual assistant and you can advertise your services in German or English via freelance platforms like Fiverr, Upwork or job sites like Indeed.

8. Social Media Analyst/Marketer

If you cannot stay away from Instagram or Facebook, this is the perfect job for you. A significant part of marketing has moved online and into social media. There is a constant need to monitor the publishing calendar and find the perfect platform that offers high ROI for marketing investment. It requires a degree of comfort with figures and statistics and the ability to objectively analyse and prepare a report based on which the company can tweak its marketing strategy. In the German capital Berlin, the estimated annual salary for a Social Media Analyst is €27,000.

You will be required to understand how to run paid ads on social media channels and how to gain more likes and shares for any social media campaign you manage. This will also involve a certain level of creative and converting social media copy and image or even video design to make each social media post as effective as possible. Many German businesses will look for assistance with their social media activities for perhaps just a few hours a week as they might already use marketing automation tools that require some human input for post and ad creation and scheduling.

It’s best to check online job platforms like Fiverr, Upwork and co. to see what the current expectations are for such gigs and we also share tips on the ClickDo YT channel

9. Video Gamer

Online gaming is another big money generator and in Germany, video games like Minecraft attract a huge following on YouTube for example. For Minecraft fanatics, there are many ways to cash in on their gaming passion and skill. If you want to start earning through online gaming, you need to have a Minecraft game server first. You need to invest time, skill and effort to maintain and build the server, a unique Minecraft world and a dedicated community for other Minecraft players. Beginners can buy a Minecraft server from a reliable hosting provider like SeekaHost and they can read more about how to get started with the SeekaHost Minecraft Server Guide. Try these money-generating avenues once your Minecraft server is up and running:

• Earn by streaming your Minecraft gaming experience:

Build a YouTube channel and add a variety of content related to your gaming like expert tips, behind-the-scenes, etc. You can earn a decent income through the YouTube monetisation scheme which is covered in more detail in the above-mentioned ClickDo Make Money Online Guide.

• Charge players for using your server:

Once you advertise your server and attract people to it, you can begin to charge players for the use of your server. You can charge a decent amount for an awesome world with great visual impact, expansions, mods and more. If users like your Minecraft world, you can charge membership fees, where you could offer different packages depending on the play duration, features etc.

• Create a “task-based” virtual currency program for players:

Set up your Minecraft server so that players use a virtual currency to play games. You can allocate a specific amount of virtual currency based on the tasks they complete. These tasks could be linked to your business affiliate schemes and advertising arrangements, encouraging players to download their products such as applications. You could also get your players to watch your advertiser’s latest ads or subscribe to their email lists for example.

While there is no specific data on the average pay for video gamers, there is information available for video game testers in Germany. According to SalaryExpert, the average salary for a video game tester in Germany is around €67.840 per year, which translates to approximately €33 per hour. Additionally, they can earn an average bonus of about €2.327. There are more advanced ways to earn with Minecraft, which you can find out about in the SeekaHost Make Money With Minecraft Guide.

10. Online Tutoring

Online tutoring has become a popular and flexible way to earn money in Germany, especially as more students and adults seek personalised learning experiences outside the traditional classroom. If you have expertise in a specific subject, particularly in high-demand areas like STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) or language learning, you can offer your tutoring services to students of all age groups in Germany.

To become a successful online tutor, you should have a strong grasp of the subject you wish to teach. While formal teaching qualifications can be advantageous, they are not always necessary, especially for subjects where practical knowledge is highly valued, such as coding or languages. Many platforms like Spires, Preply, or Italki allow you to showcase your skills through video introductions or sample lessons, which can help attract potential students.

In Germany, there is a high demand for tutoring in subjects like the English and German language, mathematics, and test preparation for exams such as the Abitur. Additionally, tutoring for adult learners in areas like business English, computer skills, or even German as a foreign language is also in demand. This makes online tutoring especially profitable in Germany, where education is highly valued, and there is a willingness to invest in quality learning experiences for both adults and children. As more people seek to improve their skills for career advancement or personal development, the need for qualified tutors continues to grow.

• Cultural Sensitivity and Tailored Lessons:

As an online tutor, it’s important to tailor your lessons to meet the specific needs of your students. For example, if you’re teaching German to international students, understanding their native language and cultural background can help you create more effective lessons. Similarly, when preparing German students for exams, familiarity with the German education system and exam formats is crucial.

• Platform Utilisation:

Platforms like Superprof and Preply offer a wide range of tools to help you manage your tutoring business. These platforms typically handle payment processing, and scheduling, and sometimes even provide teaching resources. This allows you to focus on delivering high-quality lessons rather than worrying about administrative tasks.

• Earnings and Flexibility:

Tutoring rates in Germany can vary depending on the subject, your experience, and the level of instruction. On average, tutors can earn approximately €14 per hour. Online tutoring also offers great flexibility, allowing you to set your own schedule and work from home or anywhere with a stable internet connection. This makes it an ideal option for students, stay-at-home parents, or anyone looking for a side income.

• Building a Reputation:

Building a good reputation is key to long-term success in online tutoring. Encourage your students to leave positive reviews and testimonials on your profile, as this will help attract more clients. Over time, as you accumulate positive feedback and success stories, you can potentially increase your rates and expand your tutoring services.

11. Dropshipping

Dropshipping is a popular e-commerce business model that allows you to sell products online without holding any inventory. This business model has gained significant traction in Germany, as it offers a low-risk entry into the world of online retail.

• How Dropshipping Works:

In a dropshipping business, you set up an online store, typically through platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, SeekaHost, or even Amazon Germany. You select products from suppliers, usually based in countries like China or the US, and list them for sale on your website. When a customer places an order, the supplier ships the product directly to the customer. You earn a profit by charging a higher price than what you pay the supplier.

• Product Selection and Market Research:

The success of a dropshipping business largely depends on the products you choose to sell. In Germany, popular niches include eco-friendly products, health and wellness items, electronics, and unique home decor. Conduct thorough market research to identify trending products and understand consumer preferences in Germany. Tools like Google Trends, social media, and competitor analysis can help you spot profitable niches.

• Marketing and Customer Acquisition:

Marketing strategies are crucial in dropshipping, as you need to drive traffic to your online store. Utilising platforms like Google Ads, Facebook Ads, and Instagram can help you reach potential customers. Content marketing, such as blogging or creating video content around your products, can also help establish your brand and attract organic traffic. Additionally, offering discounts, free shipping, or other promotions can entice customers to make a purchase.

• Challenges and Considerations:

While dropshipping offers low upfront costs, it does come with challenges. Shipping times can be longer, especially if your supplier is based overseas, which might lead to customer dissatisfaction. To mitigate this, consider using European suppliers or opting for faster shipping methods, even if they are more expensive. Additionally, the competitive nature of dropshipping means you’ll need to constantly optimise your store, experiment with different products, and refine your marketing strategies.

• Earnings Potential:

Earnings in dropshipping can vary widely depending on your niche, marketing efforts, and the products you sell. While some dropshippers in Germany manage to build six-figure businesses, others may only see modest returns. The average monthly income of a drop shipper ranges from $1,000 to $5,000. Drop shippers typically earn a profit of around 10% to 30% from each sale. It’s important to approach dropshipping with realistic expectations and be prepared to invest time in learning the intricacies of e-commerce and digital marketing.

12. Affiliate Marketing

Affiliate marketing is a performance-based online business model where you earn a commission by promoting other companies’ products or services. In Germany, it’s an especially relevant and popular way to make money online, thanks to the country’s strong e-commerce market and high internet penetration. If you have a website, blog, or strong social media presence, affiliate marketing can be a lucrative opportunity, as German consumers increasingly turn to online shopping and value trusted recommendations from content creators. This growing demand for online products and services makes affiliate marketing a promising avenue for generating income in the German market.

• How Affiliate Marketing Works:

As an affiliate marketer, you promote products or services through unique affiliate links provided by the companies you partner with. When someone clicks on your link and makes a purchase, you earn a commission. The commission rate can vary depending on the product and the affiliate program, ranging from 3% to 20% or more.

• Choosing the Right Affiliate Programs:

In Germany, there are several reputable affiliate networks and programs to choose from, including Awin (formerly Zanox), Amazon Associates Germany, and Digistore24. When selecting an affiliate program, consider the types of products you want to promote. Popular categories include technology, fashion, health and wellness, and financial services. It’s also important to choose products that align with your audience’s interests and needs.

• Content Creation and Promotion:

Successful affiliate marketing relies heavily on content creation. Whether you run a blog, a YouTube channel, or an Instagram account, creating valuable and engaging content that resonates with your audience is key. For example, if you’re promoting tech products, writing detailed reviews, creating comparison guides, or producing unboxing videos can help drive traffic to your affiliate links.

• Building Trust with Your Audience:

Transparency is crucial in affiliate marketing. Clearly disclose your affiliate relationships to your audience, as this builds trust and credibility. Your audience is more likely to purchase through your links if they believe in your recommendations and understand that you genuinely endorse the products.

• Challenges and Opportunities:

Affiliate marketing can be highly competitive, especially in popular niches. To stand out, focus on providing unique insights or targeting less saturated markets. Additionally, keeping up with trends, new products, and changes in affiliate program terms is essential for sustained success. On the plus side, affiliate marketing offers the potential for passive income, as older content can continue to generate commissions long after it’s been published.

• Earnings Potential:

Earnings in affiliate marketing can vary greatly depending on your niche, traffic, and conversion rates. While some affiliate marketers earn a few hundred euros per month, others have scaled their efforts to generate significant income. In Germany, the estimated annual salary for an Affiliate Marketing Manager is €43,000. As you refine your strategies and grow your audience, your earning potential can increase substantially.

These detailed options provide a deeper understanding of how to make money online in Germany, offering various opportunities tailored to different skills and interests.