How to find part-time jobs while studying abroad

Living and studying abroad can be an expensive experience, and it’s not uncommon for students to feel that their budget is restrictive, particularly when it comes to money for leisure activities and downtime. But you don’t have to fund your study experience from your savings alone: a part-time job can be a great way to earn some extra money and may come with a few other benefits.

Aside from the additional income, the advantages of getting a part-time job while you study include:

• Improving your language skills
• Integrating into the local culture
• Building your professional network
• Adding experience to your CV
• Making friends and feeling part of the local area

Things to consider when choosing a part-time job

When choosing a part-time job as an international student, there are a few factors you should consider:

Visa conditions

Always check the conditions of your visa before you apply for part-time work. Although countries usually have generic legislation for international students, your visa may stipulate conditions unique to your course and personal circumstances.

Employment rights

Familiarise yourself with your employment rights in your study destination. Consider your basic rights, minimum wage, health and safety, and legislated breaks.

Hours

In addition to any legal requirements on the number of hours you can work, consider what hours you can commit to. Don’t forget to factor in the time you will be studying outside of scheduled classes and time for socialising, leisure activities, and rest. 

Types of part-time jobs for international students

When it comes to the types of jobs available to you as an international student, this will vary between study destinations and the universities themselves.

Jobs on-campus

Most universities offer plenty of jobs for students on campus. These can range from call centre work to being a student ambassador. Working on-campus brings several benefits, including:

• Short commutes
• Reputable employer
• Surrounded by the student community

Jobs off-campus

If you can work off-campus, part-time jobs are available in almost every sector. A popular choice is working in the entertainment, retail, or tourism industry, for example, in a shop, restaurant or bar. But if you want to get a head-start in your career, you could try looking for part-time opportunities in your field or consider a local internship.

Assistantships

In some countries, such as the USA, postgraduate students may be able to secure an assistantship. This typically involves paid part-time teaching or research relating to your expertise.

Tutoring

Tutoring can be a great option for international students, allowing you to share your skills and expertise. However, you may need to complete this work through an agency or other organisation, as many countries have strict rules in place forbidding or limiting self-employment as an international student.

How to find part-time jobs abroad

Brush up your CV

The first step to securing a great part-time job is to ensure your resumé is at its very best. Keep your CV up-to-date and concise and remember to proofread it before you submit it.

Job hunting

There are several ways to find a part-time job as an international student:

• Check your university’s website for on-campus job listings
• Browse local job listings online or in the newspaper
• Get in touch with a local recruiter

University careers services

Almost all universities offer some career service to their students. These teams can usually help with all aspects of a job hunt, from finding job openings to assistance with applications to interview preparation.

Rules governing part-time jobs for international students

Depending on where you choose to study, your visa may have certain conditions about the type and amount of work you can undertake as an international student.

The table details the basic rules for students in top study destinations in 2024. Additional rules may apply depending on your chosen course, country, state, or type of work you plan to undertake.

This table is for guidance purposes only. Other rules may apply. You must check your visa conditions before applying for any work while studying.

Destination-specific information for part-time jobs for international students

In addition to the standard rules on the amount and type of work you are permitted to undertake as an international student, there may be additional local legislation. It’s worth thoroughly researching local regulations to avoid disappointment. Consider things like:

• Will you need a national insurance number or similar, to work as an international student?
• In Canada, students must apply for a Social Insurance Number before they take on any part-time work.
• In the UK, you will need a National Insurance number.
• When can you start part-time work as an international student?
• In the USA, you may only work off-campus after you have completed your first year.
• In Canada, you can only start working once your study programme starts.
• Will any work undertaken impact any potential post-study work visa?
• In the USA, any OPT you undertake during your studies will be removed from the permitted time you can complete OPT after graduation.
• Does volunteering count towards your permitted work hours as an international student?
• In Australia and New Zealand, volunteering can be undertaken in addition to your permitted 20 hours of part-time work.
• Is self-employment permitted as an international student?
• Many countries, including the UK and New Zealand, do not permit any form of self-employment as an international student. In other countries, such as the USA, it may fall under the same category as ‘off-campus employment’.

Note: All facts and figures are correct at the time of writing (June 2024) but may be subject to change at any time due to amendments to the local legislature.

Editor's note: This article was originally published in February 2016 by our content writer, Kavitha Vijayavelan. We have since revised it to include up-to-date information and ensure its comprehensiveness.