Discover how top countries are expanding part-time work rights for international students. Learn work hours, job options, and study-work benefits with ACHIVIA.
Ever wondered what it is really like to study abroad — and earn while you learn?
Imagine this: you are attending world-class lectures by day and working at a café, lab, or tech startup by night. You are not just earning pocket money — you are gaining global work experience, building independence, and learning to thrive in a new country.
This is the reality for thousands of international students today. And the good news? More countries than ever are expanding part-time job rights for foreign students — giving you greater flexibility and financial freedom while studying overseas.
Let’s dive into what this means for your global education journey.
Why Studying Abroad Is About More Than a Degree
Studying abroad is one of the smartest investments a student can make, offering quality education, global exposure, and hands-on learning.
You don’t just earn a qualification — you build confidence, adaptability, and an international network.
And now, as governments loosen work restrictions, your study experience can be even more holistic — blending academic excellence with meaningful employment.
Where You Can Study, Earn, and Grow
Here is how some top study destinations are opening new doors for students like you:
Australia: Leading the Way
Australia has long been one of the most student-friendly destinations — and now it is even better.
Students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term (other PhD and master's by research student) and unlimited hours during breaks.
Many universities — such as Monash, Melbourne, and UNSW — have strong on-campus job programs to help students find roles more easily.
- Work hours: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during breaks
- University support: On-campus job programs and career hubs
- Popular roles: Hospitality, retail, and tutoring
Japan: Study and Gain Global Experience in Asia
International students in Japan can work up to 28 hours per week during term time, provided they have received 'Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted' from immigration authorities.
Universities such as the University of Tokyo and Waseda University offer job boards and internship programs for international students.
- Work hours: 28 hours/week during term
- University support: Job boards and internship placement services
- Popular roles: English teaching, research assistance, and hospitality
Canada: Blurring the Line Between Study and Work
Canada’s welcoming policies make it one of the best places to study and earn. International students can now work up to 24 hours per week during academic sessions only if they are enrolled full-time at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), hold a valid study permit, and have obtained a Social Insurance Number (SIN).
Work hours: Up to 24 hours/week during term.
University support: Co-op placements and career development centers
Popular roles: Tech, data science, computer science, and healthcare assistantships
United Kingdom: Balancing Studies and Skills
The UK allows international students to work for 20 hours per week during term and full-time during holidays.
Universities such as Manchester, Warwick, and LSE host part-time job fairs and employability workshops.
- Work hours: Up to 20 hours/week during term, full-time in holidays
- University support: Job fairs, workshops, and career hubs for international students
- Career pathways: Part-time jobs can lead to internships and post-graduation opportunities
Germany: Low Cost, Real Opportunities
Germany offers low or no tuition fees and a strong focus on practical learning. International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term and full-time during semester breaks.
Universities like TU Munich, LMU Munich, and Heidelberg help students find research and internship roles that fit their study goals.
- Work hours: 20 hours/week during term, full-time during breaks
- University support: Career offices and internship programs
- Popular roles: Research assistants, startup interns, and engineering
Netherlands: Academic Excellence with Work Flexibility
Students in the Netherlands can work up to 16 hours per week during term or full-time only in the months of June, July, and August.
Universities such as the University of Amsterdam and Delft University of Technology offer internship programs integrated with coursework.
- Work hours: 16 hours/week during term, or full-time only in the months of June, July and August.
- University support: Internship programs and career guidance
- Popular sectors: Tech, business, and research roles
Singapore: Study and Earn in Asia’s Tech Hub
Singapore allows international students on a Student Pass to work up to 16 hours per week during term only after obtaining a work pass exemption from the Ministry of Manpower.
Universities such as NUS and NTU offer on-campus roles, research assistantships, and internships.
- Work hours: 16 hours/week during term.
- University support: Career offices and internship programs
- Popular sectors: Finance, IT, hospitality, and research
Ireland: Study, Work, and Explore
Ireland allows international students enrolled in degree programs (NFQ Level 7 or above) to work up to 20 hours per week and full-time during holidays.
Universities such as Trinity College Dublin and University College Dublin provide career services and job guidance.
- Work hours: 20 hours/week during term, full-time in breaks
- University support: Career offices and job boards for students
- Popular roles: Hospitality, tutoring, and tech internships
New Zealand: Balancing Lifestyle and Learning
New Zealand allows students to work up to 25 hours per week during term and full-time during holidays.
Universities like Auckland and Victoria Wellington connect students with on-campus jobs and internships.
- Work hours: 25 hours/week during term, full-time during holidays
- University support: Career hubs and internship placement assistance
- Popular sectors: Hospitality, retail, tutoring, and research assistantships
Working While Studying Isn’t Just a Side Gig — It’s a Life Lesson
The first job abroad is rarely glamorous. You might be making coffee, assisting professors, or helping in a lab. But those experiences teach lessons that classrooms can not:
- How to manage time between shifts and assignments
- How to communicate confidently in a new culture
- How to be financially responsible and independent
And these small jobs often open big doors — internships, mentorships, or even full-time careers after graduation.
Every student abroad has a story. Some start small, others take longer to adjust — but they all learn one thing: working while studying changes you. It builds resilience, maturity, and perspective.
The World Is Opening Up — Are You Ready?
The idea of working while studying abroad isn’t just about earning extra money — it is about living the full global experience. You learn to adapt, balance, and build a career foundation that truly sets you apart.
With more countries easing job restrictions for students, this is the perfect time to take your first step toward global learning.
Where ACHIVIA Fits In — Quietly, But Powerfully
Here is the truth — studying abroad is not just about choosing a university. It is about choosing the right journey. And that’s where ACHIVIA steps in — not as a middleman, but as a navigator.
ACHIVIA is not here to push forms or brochures; instead, we work like a global GPS, where we help you:
- Pick countries where part-time work meets study.
- Navigate visas, work limits, and local culture with confidence.
- Connect with alumni who’ve done it before.
With ACHIVIA, you do not just go abroad. You thrive abroad.
Your journey, your map — let ACHIVIA set your GPS. Call or book today!
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