List of Countries Allowing International Students to Work While Pursuing Degrees.
Studying abroad is a dream for many, but let’s be honest—it comes with a hefty price tag. Between tuition fees, rent, food, transportation, and day-to-day expenses, the costs can add up quickly. Unless you’re on a full scholarship or have strong financial backing, finding a way to earn some extra income becomes almost necessary.
The good news? Many countries recognize the value international students bring—not just academically, but also through their energy, culture, and drive. As a result, some nations allow students to work legally while completing their studies.
Click here to secure an international job opportunity
If you’re planning your next move or researching options for studying overseas, this guide will help you discover the best destinations that offer flexible work rights for students.
List of Countries Allowing International Students to Work While Pursuing Degrees
Canada
Canada consistently ranks as one of the most student-friendly countries in the world. Here, international students can work up to 20 hours per week during school sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks.
What makes Canada stand out is its built-in co-op and internship programs, allowing students to gain professional experience while earning money.
Why Canada is a top choice:
- No separate work permit required; your study visa covers part-time work
- Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) makes staying after studies easier
- Welcoming and multicultural environment
If you’re looking for a mix of study, work, and post-study career opportunities, Canada should be high on your list.
Australia
Australia has long been a favorite among international students, offering world-class universities and a relaxed lifestyle. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours every two weeks during academic sessions and unlimited hours during breaks.
Highlights:
- Plenty of jobs in retail, hospitality, and administration
- One of the highest minimum wages worldwide
- Clear pathways to post-study work visas
Australia’s flexible policies make it possible to balance academics, work, and real-world experience.
Germany
Germany is already attractive thanks to low or no tuition fees at public universities. Even better, international students can work 120 full days or 240 half days per year without an extra permit.
What sets Germany apart:
- Abundant part-time jobs, especially in research, tech, and engineering
- Affordable living in many cities
- Strong demand for skilled professionals
Knowing German is a plus, but in large cities like Berlin or Munich, English-speaking jobs are widely available.
United Kingdom (UK)
The UK remains a top study-abroad destination with robust work opportunities for students. With a Tier 4 (General) visa, you can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays.
Why students choose the UK:
- Plenty of part-time jobs in retail, hospitality, and on campus
- Growing career paths in tech, marketing, and healthcare
- Graduate Route allows 2–3 years of work after graduation
Though tuition and living costs can be high, the UK’s career prospects make it worth considering.
New Zealand
Despite its small size, New Zealand offers excellent study options and a student-friendly environment. International students may work up to 20 hours per week during classes and full-time during holidays.
Reasons to pick New Zealand:
- Strong student support services
- Fair labor policies and minimum wage protection
- Post-study work opportunities with potential residency pathways
From part-time jobs in tourism to internships in tech, New Zealand offers a healthy balance between work and academics.
Ireland
Ireland is becoming increasingly popular, especially in sectors like IT, finance, and healthcare. Students can work 20 hours per week during term and 40 hours during breaks.
Notable perks:
- No additional work permit required
- Easy-to-find roles in cafes, offices, and customer service
- A booming graduate job market in business and tech
The Irish post-study work program also lets students stay for up to two years to find employment.
France
Known for its art, culture, and education, France also gives students the chance to work up to 964 hours annually (around 20 hours weekly).
Why France appeals:
- Jobs in teaching, customer service, and retail
- Internship opportunities with multinational companies
- Affordable housing and public benefits for students
While French language skills are a big advantage, English-speaking roles are available in major cities.
Sweden
Sweden takes a unique approach—international students face no official work-hour restrictions. Still, universities recommend prioritizing studies due to demanding coursework.
Benefits of studying and working in Sweden:
- Student-friendly labor laws
- High English proficiency makes finding work easier
- Opportunities in tech, innovation, and research sectors
Though competition for part-time roles can be tough, Sweden’s long-term benefits, including work permits and career growth, make it worthwhile.
More Than Just Extra Cash
Working while studying abroad isn’t only about covering bills or affording groceries. It also strengthens your résumé, grows your network, and gives you valuable hands-on experience.
Every role—from tutoring and retail jobs to internships and lab work—adds to your skill set and helps shape your future career.
So, when considering where to study, don’t just look at tuition or rankings. Factor in the work opportunities as well. After all, your journey to success doesn’t start after graduation—it starts with the first job you land as a student.
