Germany's tax-free "mini-job" system could be facing major changes as the federal government considers ending the model as part of its pension reform plans. Around 6.9 million people currently work in mini-jobs, which allow employees to earn up to €603 ($686) per month without paying taxes or most social security contributions.

Supporters say mini-jobs offer valuable flexibility for students, trainees, part-time workers, and retirees, while businesses in sectors such as retail and hospitality rely on them to fill staffing gaps. Critics argue that the earnings threshold discourages workers from moving into higher-paying, fully insured employment and limits long-term career development. Any reform could have significant consequences for workers, employers, and Germany's labor market, where mini-jobs remain a key source of flexible employment.