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Work Rights

Work Rights

POLICIES

Student Visa Work Regulations

Earn while you learn. Maintain compliance with visa conditions at all times.

Almost all study abroad destinations permit international students to work part-time during active semesters and full-time during official university holidays. Keeping track of specific limits (like Australia's fortnightly cap vs the weekly limits in the US and UK) ensures your student visa status remains secure.

Legal Obligations
  • Tax Registrations — Register for TFN (Aus), NIN (UK), or SIN (Canada) before commencing work.
  • Semester Restrictions — Do not exceed allowed hours. Penalties include visa cancellation.
  • Fair Work Rights — Students are entitled to the same minimum wage and workplace protections as local citizens.
MATRIX

Work Regulations By Country

Compare hourly limits, holiday rules, and current minimum wages.

Destination Hourly Limit (Semester) Scheduled Breaks National Minimum Wage
Australia 48 Hours per Fortnight Unlimited Full-time AUD $24.10 / Hour
United Kingdom 20 Hours per Week Unlimited Full-time GBP £11.44 / Hour (National Living Wage)
USA 20 Hours per Week (On-Campus Only) Unlimited (On-Campus) USD $7.25 / Hour (Federal; state rates higher)
Canada 24 Hours per Week (Off-Campus) Unlimited Full-time CAD $17.30 / Hour (Federal avg)
New Zealand 20 Hours per Week Unlimited Full-time NZD $23.15 / Hour
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about student employment restrictions.

During the first academic year of study, F-1 students cannot work off-campus. They are restricted to on-campus roles (such as library assistants, dining halls, or department offices). After the first year, off-campus work requires curricular practical training (CPT) or optional practical training (OPT) approvals.

Yes. In destinations like Australia and the UK, any professional work or placement—whether paid or unpaid—is considered work and counts towards your study visa hour restrictions unless it is an official, mandatory component of your university curriculum coursework.

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