As the number of Indian students pursuing education abroad steadily rises—now over 1.3 million according to recent government data—it becomes increasingly important for students to balance academics with work opportunities. Many countries, such as Australia, Canada, and New Zealand, offer flexible work policies that allow students to work part-time while attending classes and full-time during academic breaks. This not only helps students gain valuable work experience but also eases financial burdens, aiding in loan repayment. Working part-time or even managing multiple jobs can be a viable strategy to save money, and understanding the work policies of different countries is key to making the right choice.

Here is a detailed breakdown of work opportunities and regulations for international students across popular study destinations.

United States of America (USA)

International students in the USA, under an F-1 visa, are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during the academic session and up to 40 hours per week during scheduled school breaks. Off-campus employment is restricted to F-1 students who have completed at least one academic year and face qualifying economic hardships under the Department of Homeland Security’s emergent circumstances. This means that students must adhere to strict guidelines for employment, making on-campus jobs the more common option in the first year.

Canada

Canada provides a more flexible work environment for international students, allowing them to work up to 24 hours per week during the academic session and unlimited hours during breaks. To be eligible for off-campus work, students must be enrolled full-time at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) and hold a valid study permit. Canada also offers co-op or internship programs integrated into the academic curriculum, where work placements are a mandatory part of the course. In cases of severe economic hardship, additional exceptions may apply, as outlined by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

United Kingdom (UK)

In the UK, international students enrolled in full-time degree programs at recognized institutions are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during the academic session and unlimited hours during holidays. Work placements that are part of the academic curriculum are also allowed. The UK’s structured work policy ensures students can manage both their studies and part-time work without compromising academic performance.

Australia

Australia allows international students to work up to 48 hours per fortnight (equivalent to 24 hours per week) during the academic session, with no work-hour restrictions during scheduled breaks. Postgraduate research students, however, are granted the privilege of working unlimited hours after they start their master’s or doctoral degrees. Australia also offers Work-Integrated Learning (WIL), which is part of the course and does not count toward the 48-hour fortnightly limit.

Germany

In Germany, international students can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic term and full-time (up to 40 hours per week) during semester breaks. The country also enforces a yearly limit of 120 full days or 240 half days. Some exceptions are made for internships that are a mandatory part of the academic program. For students from non-EU countries, specific work regulations are imposed by the German Federal Employment Agency.

New Zealand

New Zealand’s policies allow international students to work up to 20 hours per week during the academic session and full-time during scheduled breaks. This policy applies to students enrolled in full-time programs of at least two years or those studying for qualifications listed on the Long-Term Skill Shortage List. Exceptions may be made for mandatory work placements required by academic courses, as regulated by Immigration New Zealand.

France

France permits international students to work up to 964 hours per year, which averages about 20 hours per week during the academic session and full-time during holidays. Students must be enrolled at institutions that participate in the French social security system. Exceptions are provided for internships that are part of the curriculum. The work regulations are managed by the French Ministry of the Interior.

Netherlands

In the Netherlands, non-EU/EEA 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 legally, students require a work permit arranged by their employer. Internships that are compulsory for academic courses are exempt from these work-hour restrictions, with regulations overseen by the Dutch Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND).

Average Hourly Wages for International Students

Here’s an overview of the approximate hourly wage international students can expect in various countries:

• USA: $7.25 – $15 (₹594 – ₹1230)
• Canada: CA$13 – CA$16 (₹807 – ₹993)
• UK: £8 – £10.42 (₹839 – ₹1094)
• Australia: AU$21 – AU$28 (₹1157 – ₹1544)
• Germany: €9 – €12 (₹799 – ₹1066)
• New Zealand: NZ$20 – NZ$22 (₹1020 – ₹1123)
• France: €10 – €12 (₹888 – ₹1066)
• Netherlands: €9 – €11 (₹799 – ₹977)

Balancing work and studies is essential for international students, and many countries offer flexible policies that make it easier to manage. With the right information, students can find the best opportunities for employment while studying abroad.