Which country allows international students to work most hours?

United States of America (USA)

In the USA, international students on F-1 visas can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic session and up to 40 hours per week during school breaks. Off-campus employment is available only to F-1 students who have completed at least one full academic year and who face economic hardship that qualifies under the Department of Homeland Security’s emergent circumstances.

Canada

In Canada, international student can work up to 24 hours per week during the academic session and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Off-campus employment is permitted for student who hold a valid study permit and are enrolled full-time at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).

Additionally, certain programmes, such as co-op or internship placements, may require work that is integral to the academic curriculum. Exceptions may apply in cases of severe economic hardship or special circumstances as outlined by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

United Kingdom (UK)

In the UK, international students can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic session and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Off-campus employment is allowed for students enrolled in full-time degree-level courses or above at a recognized institution. Additionally, work placements that are part of the academic programme are permitted.

(Representative image/ pixabay.com)

Australia

In Australia, international students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight (per 2 weeks) during the academic session and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Postgraduate research students may work unlimited hours once they commence their master’s by research or doctoral degree. Be aware that Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) is a formal part of the course and thus does not count towards the 48-hour limit.

Germany

In Germany, international students can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic session and full-time (up to 40 hours per week) during semester breaks. Students are generally allowed to work 120 full days or 240 half days per year. Certain exceptions may apply for internships that are a mandatory part of the study program. Additionally, students from non-EU countries need to adhere to specific regulations set by the German Federal Employment Agency.

New Zealand

In New Zealand, international students can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic session and full-time during scheduled breaks. This allowance applies to students enrolled in full- time programmes of at least two years duration or those studying courses that lead to qualifications under the Long-Term Skill Shortage List. Specific exceptions may apply for work placements that are a mandatory part of the academic curriculum. Regulations and exceptions are managed by Immigration New Zealand.

France

In France, international students can work up to 964 hours per year (approximately 20 hours per week) during the academic session and full-time during university holidays. This allowance applies to students enrolled in institutions that participate in the French social security system. Specific exceptions may apply for internships that are an integral part of the academic curriculum. Regulations and exceptions are managed by the French Ministry of Interior.

Netherlands

In the Netherlands, international students can work up to 16 hours per week during the academic session and full-time during summer months (June, July, and August). To work, non-EU/EEA students require a work permit, which is usually arranged by the employer. Internships that are a compulsory part of the study program are not subject to these restrictions. Regulations are overseen by the Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND).

Average Hourly Wages for International Students

Below is a table with the approximate hourly wage that an international student can get –

Balancing academics and work is crucial for international students. Countries such as Australia, the USA, Canada, the UK, Germany, New Zealand, and France offer various work opportunities and exceptions. Understanding these can ease financial burdens and provide valuable experience.

(The writer is the CEO and Co-Founder, GyanDhan)