Countries That Allow International Students to Work While Studying

Studying abroad can be expensive. Apart from tuition fees, international students must budget for accommodation, food, transportation, health insurance, study materials and other daily expenses. For students who do not want to depend entirely on savings or financial support from home, finding a country where they can work while studying can make a real difference.

However, the rules are not the same everywhere. Some countries allow students to work for up to 20 or 25 hours per week during academic sessions, while others have annual work-hour limits or require additional permission before employment begins. The type of student visa, institution and course can also affect the work rights available.

If you are planning to study abroad and want to earn while completing your education, this guide explores 10 countries that allow international students to work while studying, their work-hour limits and important conditions to understand before applying.

1. Canada

Canada is a popular destination for international students because of its recognized universities, diverse communities and opportunities to gain work experience. Eligible international students can work both on campus and off campus while studying.

International students who meet the requirements can work up to 24 hours per week off campus during regular academic sessions. During scheduled school breaks, such as summer and winter holidays, eligible students can work unlimited hours.

Students must meet specific conditions before starting employment. For example, they generally need to be studying full-time at a designated learning institution, have started their programme and hold a study permit with the appropriate work conditions.

Students enrolled only in certain programmes, like English or French as a second language course, may not qualify for off-campus work.

There are different types of jobs students can consider, including retail, hospitality, customer service, administrative support and campus-based positions. The availability of these jobs depends on the student’s location, experience and schedule.

Canada can be a good option for students who want to combine education with part-time employment. Nevertheless, it is important to understand that working while studying does not remove the need to demonstrate sufficient funds for a study permit.

Before making plans, read the official Canadian government guide to working off campus as an international student.

2. United Kingdom

The United Kingdom attracts international students who want access to established universities, internationally recognized qualifications and a wide range of academic programmes.

Eligible students on a UK Student visa may work while studying, but the number of permitted hours depends on the course and institution.

Students studying a full-time degree-level course at an eligible higher education institution can generally work up to 20 hours per week during term time. Those studying certain eligible courses below degree level may be limited to 10 hours per week.

Qualified students can generally work full-time outside term time, according to their visa conditions and official academic calendar.

It is important to understand that not every student in the UK automatically receives permission to work. Students on certain courses or visa arrangements may have no employment permission.

There are also restrictions on the type of work permitted. For example, Student visa holders are generally not allowed to work as professional sportspersons or entertainers or become self-employed.

Students should check the work conditions attached to their immigration permission before accepting a job. They should also confirm whether their university has any additional guidance on employment during the academic year.

3. Australia

Australia is another attractive destination for international students who want to combine education with employment. The country has universities, vocational institutions and colleges offering programmes in different fields.

Suitable Student visa holders can generally work up to 48 hours per fortnight while their course is in session. This limit applies during teaching periods, including examination periods.

Students can work unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks, provided their visa conditions allow it. Master’s by research and doctoral students are generally exempt from the work-hour limit after their courses have started.

International students in Australia can explore opportunities in hospitality, retail, aged care, customer service, administration and other sectors, depending on their qualifications and experience.

One important point is that students cannot simply begin working as soon as their visa is approved. In most cases, they must wait until their course has started, unless they already hold another visa that gives them work rights.

Australia also has workplace protections for international students. Employers are expected to follow applicable employment laws, including rules on wages and working conditions.

Students should check their individual visa conditions before accepting employment because the permitted hours and restrictions may depend on their circumstances.

4. Germany

Germany is worth considering for international students interested in studying in Europe. It has a strong reputation in engineering, technology, science, business and research.

International students from countries outside the European Union and European Economic Area can work while studying, subject to specific legal limits.

Under the current rules, eligible students from third countries can work up to 140 full days or 280 half-days per calendar year without approval from the Federal Employment Agency. Alternatively, students may work up to 20 hours per week during the lecture period under the applicable rules.

Some university student assistant positions are treated differently from ordinary employment and might not count towards the standard limit.

Students can look for work in university libraries, research departments, restaurants, shops, offices and other workplaces. Those with strong German language skills are likely to find a wider range of opportunities, although some international companies and university departments also use English.

Germany can be particularly attractive to students who want to gain experience in a country with established industries and research institutions.

On the other hand, students should not assume that part-time work will cover all their expenses. They must still meet the financial requirements for their student residence permit and manage their academic responsibilities.

5. New Zealand

New Zealand offers international students the opportunity to gain practical experience while pursuing their education. Its education system includes universities, institutes of technology, polytechnics and other approved providers.

Since 3 November 2025, eligible student visa holders have been able to work up to 25 hours per week during their studies. This increased the previous 20-hour limit for eligible students.

Some students may also work full-time during scheduled holidays, depending on their course and visa conditions. Master’s by research and PhD students have different work arrangements and may work without the usual student work-hour restriction.

Not every course automatically qualifies a student for employment. The course must meet the relevant requirements, and the student’s visa must include permission to work.

International students can find part-time jobs in restaurants, shops, hotels, tourism businesses, customer service centres and farms.

New Zealand is also known for its outdoor lifestyle and smaller-city study environments. However, students should compare accommodation costs, transport and employment opportunities before choosing a university.

The most important step is to check the work conditions printed on the visa or shown on the student’s electronic visa record.

6. Ireland

Ireland is a popular study destination for international students who want to study in an English-speaking European country. It has institutions offering courses in business, technology, healthcare, science, finance and other fields.

Eligible non-European Economic Area students with Stamp 2 immigration permission can work part-time while studying.

The standard limit is 20 hours per week during term time. During designated holiday periods, eligible students can work up to 40 hours per week.

These holiday periods include June, July, August and September, as well as 15 December to 15 January.

Students must meet the relevant immigration and course requirements to qualify. In particular, their programme must be listed on the approved list of approved courses.

Common employment opportunities include hospitality, retail, customer service, food services, administration and other part-time roles.

Ireland’s technology and business sectors may also interest students studying related subjects, although professional roles often require relevant qualifications and experience.

Students should remember that the right to work is connected to their immigration permission. They must maintain their student status and follow the conditions attached to it.

7. France

France is another country where accepted international students can work while completing their studies. It is known for its universities, business schools, engineering institutions, arts programmes and research opportunities.

Foreign students with the appropriate residence status can generally work up to 964 hours per year, which represents 60% of the normal annual working time in France.

This limit applies to many international students, although some nationalities have different arrangements. Algerian students, for example, are subject to specific rules under the agreement between France and Algeria.

Students can explore jobs in restaurants, shops, hotels, tourism, customer service and university departments. Those who speak French may have access to more employment opportunities because many employers require communication with French-speaking customers.

Students studying in English should consider learning French before or after arriving. Even basic language skills can make everyday activities and job applications easier.

Working while studying can provide useful experience, but students should not depend entirely on part-time income to pay their tuition and living expenses.

They should also confirm that their residence permit allows employment and that their planned working hours remain within the legal limit.

8. Netherlands

The Netherlands is known for its international learning environment and wide range of English-taught university programmes. It attracts students interested in business, engineering, technology, agriculture, design and other subjects.

Nevertheless, employment rules for international students from outside the European Economic Area are different from those in some other European countries.

Eligible non-EEA students can generally work as employees for up to 16 hours per week throughout the year, or work full-time during June, July and August.

Students must choose between these two arrangements. Their employer must also obtain a work permit, known as a TWV, before the student begins employment.

This requirement is important because the employer, rather than the student, is responsible for applying for the work permit.

Students may find opportunities in hospitality, retail, logistics, customer service and other sectors. Some may also find internships connected to their academic programmes.

The Netherlands can be a good choice for students who want an international study environment, but they should consider the additional work-permit requirement when planning their finances.

Students should also check whether their institution is recognized by the Dutch immigration authorities and whether their course meets the requirements for a student residence permit.

9. Japan

Japan offers international students opportunities to study in areas such as technology, engineering, business, science, language and culture.

Yet, students should understand that a Japanese Student residence status is primarily intended for education. It does not automatically give permission to take up paid employment.

Students who want to work part-time must first obtain permission to engage in activities outside their permitted residence status.

Once the appropriate permission has been granted, permitted students can generally work up to 28 hours per week during academic periods. During long school holidays, they may work up to eight hours per day.

Common part-time jobs include working in restaurants, convenience stores, supermarkets, hotels and other service businesses.

Knowing how to speak Japanese can make it easier to find employment, especially in customer-facing roles. Some universities also provide information about part-time work and career opportunities for international students.

There are restrictions on the types of businesses where students may work. Employment in adult entertainment-related businesses is prohibited, even where the duties appear unrelated to entertainment activities.

Students should obtain the required permission before starting a job. Working without authorisation or exceeding the permitted hours can affect their immigration status.

10. United States

The United States remains a major destination for international students because of its universities, research facilities and wide range of academic programmes.

However, its student employment rules are more restrictive than those of many other countries.

International students studying under the F-1 visa category can generally work on campus for up to 20 hours per week while school is in session. They can be permitted to work full-time on campus during official school breaks when approved.

Off-campus employment is not automatically permitted. Students generally need specific authorization through arrangements such as Curricular Practical Training (CPT), Optional Practical Training (OPT) or certain employment permissions based on qualifying circumstances.

CPT allows eligible students to take part in practical training that is an integral part of their established curriculum. OPT provides qualifying students with temporary work authorization related to their field of study.

Students should speak with their designated school official before accepting any employment. Working without the required office clearance can create serious immigration problems.

The United States can be a strong option for students who want access to research, academic resources and professional development. However, those who expect to depend on off-campus part-time work should understand the restrictions before choosing this destination.

Comparison of Countries That Allow International Students to Work While Studying

The table below provides a quick comparison of the general work limits discussed in this guide. These limits apply to eligible students and may depend on the type of visa, institution, course and academic calendar.

Country	General work limit during study	Work during official breaks
Canada	24 hours per week off campus	Unlimited hours during eligible scheduled breaks
United Kingdom	20 hours per week for eligible degree-level students; 10 hours for certain below-degree courses	Full-time work generally permitted
Australia	48 hours per fortnight	Unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks
Germany	140 full days or 280 half-days per year, or up to 20 hours weekly under applicable rules	Different arrangements may apply during semester breaks
New Zealand	Up to 25 hours per week for eligible students	Full-time work may be permitted
Ireland	20 hours per week during term time	Up to 40 hours during designated holiday periods
France	Up to 964 hours per year for most eligible students	Subject to the annual limit
Netherlands	Up to 16 hours per week for eligible employees	Full-time in June, July and August
Japan	Up to 28 hours per week with permission	Up to eight hours per day during long school holidays
United States	Up to 20 hours per week for eligible F-1 on-campus employment	Full-time on-campus work may be permitted

What Jobs Can International Students Do While Studying?

The type of work available depends on the country, student’s qualifications, language skills and local job market. Many international students begin with part-time roles that can fit around lectures, assignments and examinations.

Some common options include:

1. Retail assistant: Students may work in supermarkets, clothing stores, shopping centres and other retail businesses. Duties can include assisting customers, arranging products and handling sales.

2. Restaurant and hospitality staff: Restaurants, cafés, hotels and food businesses often employ part-time workers. Positions may include servers, kitchen assistants, reception staff and cleaners.

3. Customer service representative: Some companies hire students to respond to customer enquiries, provide information and assist with basic support tasks.

4. Administrative assistant: Students with good organizational and computer skills may find part-time office positions involving data entry, document preparation and general administrative duties.

5. University jobs: Some institutions offer employment opportunities within libraries, research departments, student services and campus facilities.

6. Tutoring: Students with strong academic knowledge may be able to tutor other learners, provided the work is permitted under their immigration conditions.

Before accepting any position, students should confirm that the job is allowed under their visa and does not exceed their permitted working hours.

What Should You Consider Before Choosing a Country?

A country that allows international students to work is not automatically the best choice for everyone. The decision should involve more than the number of hours students are allowed to work.

Here are some important factors to compare before making an application.

1. Cost of Living

Consider the cost of accommodation, food, transportation, healthcare and other basic needs. A country may offer more working hours but also have high living expenses.

Compare the likely cost of living in the city where you plan to study, not just the national average.

2. Tuition Fees

Tuition fees differ between countries, universities and courses. Some institutions charge considerably more than others.

Check the total cost of your programme, including additional academic fees, before accepting an admission offer.

3. Availability of Part-Time Jobs

A legal right to work does not guarantee that you will find employment immediately.

Research the local job market and consider whether employers commonly hire students. Look at the opportunities available around your chosen university and whether your language skills meet employers’ expectations.

4. Language Requirements

English-speaking countries may be easier for students who are not familiar with another language. However, some non-English-speaking countries offer programmes taught in English.

Remember that studying in English does not always mean you can easily find a part-time job in English. Learning the local language can improve your employment prospects.

5. Student Visa Conditions

Always check the immigration rules that apply to your specific visa. Work rights can depend on the type of course, institution, academic level and other conditions.

Don’t rely on information from social media or unofficial agents when making decisions about immigration and employment.

6. Opportunities After Graduation

Some students want to work only to support themselves during their studies, while others hope to gain experience and build a career after graduation.

If you plan to work abroad after completing your studies, research the country’s post-study work options before choosing where to study. Some countries offer special work permits to graduates who meet specific requirements. For example, Canada offers a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) to graduates of certain eligible institutions and programmes. Keep in mind that permission to work while studying does not automatically give you the right to remain and work after graduation.

Can International Students Pay Their Tuition Fees Through Part-Time Jobs?

This is an important question for students planning to finance their education abroad.

In most cases, part-time employment is better viewed as a way to support living expenses rather than a reliable way to pay all tuition fees.

The amount a student earns depends on the number of hours permitted, the type of job, local wages and the availability of employment. Students may also need to consider deductions, transportation costs and other expenses connected to working.

For example, a student who is allowed to work 20 hours per week may not find a job immediately or receive enough shifts to earn the maximum possible income.

Some countries also require international students to demonstrate that they have sufficient funds before a visa is approved. The possibility of working after arrival does not necessarily replace this requirement.

A sensible financial plan should include tuition, accommodation, food, transport, insurance and emergency savings. Any expected part-time income should be treated as additional support rather than guaranteed funding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which country allows international students to work the most hours?

Among the countries discussed, Japan generally permits eligible international students to work up to 28 hours per week during academic periods, provided they obtain the required permission. New Zealand allows eligible students to work up to 25 hours per week, while Canada permits up to 24 hours of off-campus work during regular academic sessions.

Although, the highest number of permitted hours does not necessarily mean the country offers the best employment opportunities or lowest living costs.

Can international students work full-time during holidays?

Yes. Several countries allow eligible students to work full-time during official academic breaks. Examples include Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand and Ireland.

The conditions differ. Students should check the official holiday periods and confirm that their visa permits full-time employment before accepting additional shifts.

Do all international students have permission to work?

No. Work rights depend on the country’s immigration rules, visa category, course and institution. Some students may need additional authorization before taking up employment.

For example, eligible students in Japan must obtain permission for activities outside their student residence status before working part-time.

Can I work while studying without affecting my academic performance?

Yes, it is possible to combine work and study, but proper time management is important.

Students should choose working hours that fit around lectures, assignments, examinations and other academic responsibilities. Working too many hours can make it difficult to maintain good academic performance.

Is it possible to get a part-time job before travelling abroad?

In some cases, students can search for opportunities before travelling, but many part-time employers prefer applicants who are already living in the country and have the necessary permission to work.

It is better to research job opportunities in advance without assuming that employment will be available immediately after arrival.

Do I need a work permit as an international student?

This depends on the country. Some student visas include permission to work once the student meets the relevant conditions. Other countries require additional authorization or a work permit.

For example, employers in the Netherlands must obtain a TWV for eligible non-EEA students working as employees. Students in Japan must obtain permission to engage in activities outside their residence status.

Conclusion

Choosing a study destination involves more than finding a university with an attractive course. International students also need to consider living expenses, employment opportunities, visa conditions and the possibility of gaining useful work experience.

Countries such as Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, Germany, New Zealand, Ireland, France, the Netherlands, Japan and the United States allow eligible international students to work under specific conditions.

However, the permitted hours and employment requirements differ. Before applying to a university or accepting an admission offer, check the current immigration rules for your chosen destination.

Most importantly, build a realistic financial plan that does not depend entirely on finding a part-time job. Working while studying can provide additional income and valuable experience, but your education and immigration status should remain your priorities.