Student Work Rules: UK, Canada and Australia

Student work can help with some living costs. The rules are different in each country and can change, so check the official immigration website before applying.

United Kingdom: 20 hours and the Graduate Route

International students in the UK can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during official vacations, provided the course is at degree level or above with a licensed sponsor. Term dates are set by your university, and working beyond the limit is a breach of your visa conditions.

After graduation, the Graduate Route lets you stay and work, or look for work, for 2 years without needing a sponsor. That window gives you time to find an employer willing to sponsor a Skilled Worker visa if you want to stay longer.

Canada: 24 hours off campus and the PGWP

Canada allows eligible international students to work up to 24 hours per week off campus while classes are in session, and full-time during scheduled breaks such as summer holidays. On-campus work is a separate permission. Your study permit states the conditions that apply to you.

After finishing an eligible program, the Post-Graduation Work Permit can be valid for up to 3 years depending on the length and level of the program. The PGWP is an open work permit, so you can work for almost any employer in Canada while you build toward permanent residence.

Australia: 48 hours a fortnight and the 485 visa

Australia counts work limits per fortnight rather than per week. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while their course is in session, and without hourly limits during official course breaks. Postgraduate research students have different conditions, so read your visa grant notice carefully.

The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) lets graduates stay and work in Australia for 2 to 4 years depending on the qualification. Australia reviews this program regularly, so check the current settings for your degree level before relying on a specific duration.

What student jobs actually pay

In all three countries, typical student jobs are in retail, hospitality, warehouses, delivery and campus services, and they pay close to each country's minimum wage. Part-time income can realistically cover a share of living costs such as food and transport.

Part-time work will not normally cover tuition. Your visa documents must show that you can pay tuition and living costs without future job income.

Using work rights to choose a country

If staying to work after graduation is your main goal, compare the post-study routes first: 2 years in the UK, up to 3 years in Canada, and 2 to 4 years in Australia. If earning during study matters more, the weekly pattern differs but realistic income is similar across the three.

Do not choose a country only for student work. Also compare the course, total cost, weather, community and options after graduation.