In the competitive era, most Indian students have an ambition of moving abroad for higher education, whether it is a degree or a course, in a college or university. However, to meet the growing expenses overseas to earn a degree, students are trying to find job opportunities to meet the high costs. Due to this, students are looking for countries that not only offer education services but also provide part-time opportunities so that they are able to support themselves financially.
Having a part-time job while studying allows students to cover their expenses, gain practical experience, and make global connections that can lead to future career options. However, the degree of flexibility and educational support for student employment differs significantly between countries.
Selecting an appropriate study destination plays a vital role in shaping the quality of study abroad, along with working experience.
Why Is Part-Time Work Important for Students Who Study Abroad?
Engaging in part-time employment during studies is not solely motivated by financial gain. Although it contributes to covering living expenses and tuition fees, the integration of academic learning with practical work experience enhances the overall educational knowledge and fosters a more meaningful study abroad journey.
Part-time work also contributes to the development of some necessary skills, which are as follows:
- It enhances self-esteem, communication abilities, and interpersonal competencies.
- Students obtain practical experience within the host country, thereby improving their employability profile.
- It facilitates the development of a professional network within the host country.
- This can cultivate time management skills, and international students gain insight into the professional culture of the host country.
- Working part-time develops stronger communication skills in the local language, which is especially valuable in countries where English is not the major language.
- Learners gain exposure to potential full-time career opportunities following graduation.
Top Countries where Students can legally work while studying
Selecting an ideal study abroad destination involves more than just evaluating academic offerings; it also requires careful consideration of the career prospects available during one’s studies. There are numerous countries which permit international students to work part-time, which allows students to gain industry experience and alleviate financial pressures.
Yet, employment regulations and accessible sectors vary by country, making it important to align students’ choice with both academic focus and the professional opportunities within the host nation’s job market.
Presented below is a detailed analysis of the best countries for students to work while studying:
- Canada: Renowned for its strong educational system and accommodating employment policies, Canada remains a leading choice for international students. Various universities offer cooperative (co-op) education opportunities that combine theoretical learning with practical, paid employment.
Stat: In Canada, a significant majority-over 80%- of international students take on part-time jobs alongside their academic commitments. (CBIE, 2024)
- International students in Canada are permitted to work up to 24 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks.
- With average hourly wages ranging from CAD 13 to 20, many students can balance their living expenses through part-time employment.
- There are some common job roles that include retail assistant, sales, barista, cashier, cook, food delivery, ride share and administrative support.
- Upon graduation, eligible students may apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows them to continue living in Canada and work for up to three years.
- Additionally, cooperative education and internship programs offered by reputed institutions provide students with integrated, hands-on work experience as part of their academic curriculum.
- Australia: Australia offers a favourable environment for international students by combining competitive wages with a rights-based workplace framework. Interestingly, many universities incorporate internships and placements into their curricula through work-integrated learning initiatives.
Stat: In 2023, international students generated more than AUD 40 billion in economic contributions to Australia. (According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics)
- International students in Australia are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight (two weeks) during their academic semesters.
- As of 2025, the minimum wage stands at AUD 23.23 per hour, placing it among the highest.
- High-demand sectors for student employment include hospitality, retail, IT and tech experts, public health care professionals, engineering, trade workers, business, financial advisors, and tourism.
- After completing their studies, students may apply for a Temporary Graduate Visa to extend their stay and gain work experience.
- United Kingdom: The United Kingdom provides international students with a well-defined pathway that not only supports their academic pursuits but also enables them to remain in the country after graduation through post-study work opportunities.
- International students holding a Tier 4 student visa are permitted to work up to 20 hours per week during academic term time.
- They are entitled to receive at least the National Minimum Wage, with potential for higher pay depending on the nature of the job.
- Common sectors for student employment include Retail, hospitality, marketing and sales, investment banking, and on-campus support roles.
- Upon successful completion of their degree, graduates are eligible to apply for a two-year post-study work visa under the Graduate route, allowing them to gain valuable work experience in the UK.
- Germany: For international students, Germany provides a combination of low or no tuition fees with a robust economy and generous work rights. During their studies, students are permitted to work part-time to support themselves and gain experience. Graduates may apply for an 18-month residence permit, under a Jobseeker visa, which allows them to stay in the country while seeking employment relevant to their academic qualifications.
Stat: In 2024, Germany hosted over 370,000 international students, drawn by the country’s reputation for providing high-quality yet affordable education. Additionally, Germany’s strong labour market and favourable post-graduation employment opportunities have made it an increasingly attractive destination for students.
- International students in Germany are permitted to work up to 120 full days or 240 half days per year, allowing them to have valuable work experience while supporting themselves economically.
- No or lower tuition fees at most public universities significantly lower the cost of higher education, making Germany an economically viable option for many students.
- Employment opportunities are available across a wide range of sectors, including academic research, information technology, hospitality, and logistics, providing students with diverse options to gain practical skills.
- English-speaking job roles are becoming increasingly prevalent, particularly in major areas, facilitating easier integration for international students who may not yet be fluent in German.
- New Zealand: New Zealand provides a safe, inclusive, and student-friendly environment, making it an appealing destination for international learners. The country offers flexible part-time employment opportunities, allowing students to balance academic with work experience.
- International students are permitted to work up to 25 hours per week during academic semesters and full-time during scheduled breaks, offering financial support and practical exposure.
- The labour market is characterised by fair wages and strong worker protections, ensuring a supportive and unbiased working environment.
- Employment opportunities are commonly available across main sectors such as information technology, healthcare, tourism, agriculture, customer service, and retail, enabling students to explore diverse career paths.
- New Zealand’s straightforward visa regulations and its reputation for cultural openness and hospitality further enhance its appeal as a destination for international education.
- Ireland: Ireland has emerged as a prominent centre for technology and business in Europe, attracting a growing number of international students, particularly those pursuing studies in information technology, finance, and business-related fields.
- International students are permitted to work up to 20 hours per week during academic terms and up to 40 hours per week during official holidays, enabling them to support themselves financially and gain relevant work experience.
- Part-time employment is commonly available in sectors such as information technology, finance, customer service, and retail, providing students with practical exposure to the Irish job market.
- Graduates may benefit from the Third Level Graduate Scheme, which allows eligible students to remain in Ireland after completing their studies in order to seek full-time employment and gain valuable post-study work experience.
- USA: The United States is renowned for its world-class education system and extensive career opportunities, making it a top destination for international students. However, the regulations surrounding employment during studies are relatively complex, often requiring careful navigation.
Stat: In 2024, the United States hosted over one million international students, reflecting its continued appeal as a global leader in higher education. A significant proportion of these students pursued programs in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) disciplines, which remain the most sought-after fields due to their strong academic reputation and robust career prospects.
- International students holding an F-1 visa are permitted to work on campus for up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions, allowing them to gain experience and supplement their income.
- Common on-campus employment opportunities include roles such as library assistant, barista, laboratory technician, and other administrative or service positions within the university.
- The Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT) programs enable eligible students to engage in off-campus employment directly related to their field of study. Depending on the program and the student’s degree level, these opportunities can extend from 12 to 36 months, particularly for those in STEM fields.
- Most U.S. universities offer dedicated career services, including resume support, interview preparation, job fairs, and connections with potential employers, helping students transition smoothly into the workforce.
- France: France offers a unique blend of cultural richness, academic excellence, and supportive policies for international students. Public universities often provide high-quality education at relatively low tuition costs, making it an attractive option for students seeking both affordability and academic prestige.
In addition to accessible education, international students in France are legally permitted to work part-time during their studies, allowing them to gain professional experience and contribute to their living expenses. This combination of cultural immersion, academic opportunity, and flexible work rights makes France a compelling destination for students from around the world.
- International students in France are permitted to work up to 964 hours per year, which equates to approximately 20 hours per week during the academic term. This allows students to gain valuable work experience while supporting their day-to-day expenses.
- A separate work permit is not required, as the right to work is automatically granted with the student visa, simplifying the employment process for international students.
- Part-time job opportunities are widely available in sectors such as hospitality, retail, and private language tutoring, particularly for those with strong language skills.
- France offers a competitive minimum wage, and while the cost of living in Paris can be high, expenses are generally more manageable in other cities, making it an economically viable choice for many students.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Country for Study and Work Abroad
When selecting a destination for international education and part-time employment, it is essential to carefully evaluate several practical and regulatory aspects that can significantly impact your academic and professional experience:
- Permitted Working Hours: Most countries allow international students to work up to 20 hours per week during academic terms; however, regulations may vary depending on the country and visa type. Understanding these limits helps avoid legal issues and ensures compliance.
- Minimum Wage and Average Earnings: The rate of pay for part-time work can differ greatly from one country to another. In some destinations, even entry-level roles offer competitive wages, which can substantially offset living expenses.
- Student Visa Work Permissions: It is crucial to verify whether your student visa includes the right to work part-time. In some countries, work authorisation is automatically included, while in others, a separate permit may be required.
- Availability of Part-Time Jobs: The ease of finding student-friendly employment often depends on the strength of local industries. Countries with vibrant hospitality, retail, and service sectors tend to offer more opportunities for international students.
- Post-Study Work Opportunities: A strong destination not only supports students during their studies but also provides pathways for post-graduation employment. Policies that allow students to remain and work after completing their degrees can be valuable for career advancement.
- Language Requirements: In non-English-speaking countries, proficiency in the local language can significantly improve your chances of securing a job. Students should assess whether language training will be necessary or beneficial.
- Cost of Living vs. Income Potential: It’s important to evaluate whether the income from part-time work can reasonably cover daily living expenses such as accommodation, food, and transportation. Some countries offer a better balance between earnings and costs than others.
Things to note down
When selecting a country for international study and work, it is important to look beyond just part-time work hours or wage rates. Consider the broader picture, including which industries are currently thriving, how flexible the visa and immigration policies are, and what opportunities exist for employment after graduation.
Consulting an experienced study visa consultant can help you navigate these factors effectively. Choosing the right destination can enhance not only your academic journey but also lay a strong foundation for a successful global career.
Author Name: Raj Sharma
Author Bio: Raj Sharma is a certified visa consultant at Abroad Gateway with over 15 years of experience, specialising in study, tourist, and spouse visa consultations. Since 2010, he has helped hundreds of clients successfully achieve their international travel and education goals with personalised guidance and expert knowledge.
