Part-time work while studying abroad: rules and reality
Student work limits in Australia, the UK, Canada and the USA, what part-time work can realistically pay for, how to find a job and your rights at work.
Student visas allow limited work, set on your visa. Part-time wages help with living costs but rarely tuition, and working over your limit can cancel your visa.
Work limits in popular destinations
Most student visas allow limited part-time work. The limits below were the general rules at the time of writing. Your own conditions are set on your visa, and governments do change them, so always check the official website and your visa grant.
Working more than your visa allows can lead to visa cancellation and affect every future application, anywhere.
What part-time work can and cannot pay for
Part-time work can help with groceries, transport and some rent. It rarely covers tuition fees, and it can take several weeks to find a first job, especially in a new city or during quiet seasons.
- Arrive with enough money for your first two to three months without relying on work.
- Never plan to pay your next semester’s fees entirely from part-time wages.
- Remember that your study results come first. Failing subjects can cost more than you earn.
How students find their first job
- Use your university careers service for campus jobs and verified employers.
- Prepare a local-style CV of one or two pages, focused on reliability and relevant skills.
- Get your tax number early: TFN in Australia, National Insurance number in the UK, SIN in Canada or SSN in the USA where eligible.
- Apply widely in retail, hospitality, warehouses, tutoring and campus roles.
- Build references through volunteering or short roles.
Protect yourself at work
- International students have the same basic workplace rights as local workers, including the legal minimum wage.
- Get a written contract and payslips, and make sure your employer pays tax correctly.
- Be careful of “cash jobs” below the minimum wage or employers who ask you to work extra illegal hours.
- Contact your university or the relevant fair work authority if you are underpaid or treated unfairly.
Before you go, work through our pre-departure checklist.
Questions students ask
Can I work before my course starts?
Rules differ by country. In many cases you cannot start work until your course has begun. Check your visa conditions.
Do unpaid internships count towards my hours?
It depends on the country and whether the placement is part of your course. Ask your university’s international office.
Can I work full time during holidays?
Several countries allow more hours during official breaks between study periods. Confirm the dates of your breaks with your institution.
Talk to a Shrey Education counsellor.
We can review your documents, course choice and budget before you apply.
Book a consultation
