phd student visa working hours

Working while on a student visa

International students in New Zealand may be able to work while on a student visa. Your eVisa or visa sticker in your passport shows whether you can work.

Tertiary students

Tertiary students, for example, university or polytech students — may be able to work part time during semesters and full time during the holidays.

Part-time work

You can work up to 20 hours a week if you’re studying full time and your course:

• is at least 2 academic years long
• results in a NZ qualification at level 4 or above on the NZQCF
• is at least 1 academic year long and is part of an approved tertiary-student exchange programme.

You can still work part time if you’re studying part time:

• for a course that gives you points towards the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa, or
• in the final semester of a programme that is at least 2 academic years long.

If you have to complete work experience as part of your training, this is additional to part-time work of 20 hours a week.

Full-time work

You may be able to work full time during the Christmas holidays or scheduled breaks, for example, between semesters.

Scheduled breaks

You can work full time during scheduled breaks if:

• you study full time for at least 1 academic year
• your course is worth at least 120 credits 
• your course has a minimum of 2 semesters over at least 8 months.

Christmas and New Year holidays

You can work full time during the Christmas and New Year period if:

• you’re studying full time
• your course has a minimum of 2 semesters during at least 8 months.

If you’re studying for a masters by research or a PhD

Masters by research and PhD students can work as many hours as they like.

English-language students

If your course is 24 weeks or longer.

You can work up to 20 hours each week if:

• the main reason for your study is to improve your English
• you have an acceptable English Language test result that is no more than 2 years old, such as an International English Language Testing System ( IELTS ) certificate with an overall band score of 5.0 — you’ll need to provide this with your application.

If your course is 14 weeks or longer

You can work up to 20 hours each week if you’re studying English full time at a university or an education provider that has been assessed by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) as a Category 1 provider.

If your course is less than 14 weeks

You may be able to work if you have studied English on a previous student visa and your new course:

• follows on from the previous one
• is with the same education provider.

High-school students

Students in years 12 and 13 at secondary school can work up to 20 hours a week during the school year and full time in the Christmas and New Year holiday period.

If you’re under 18, you’ll need letters giving you permission to work from both your:

• parent or legal guardian.

Work you cannot do while on a student visa

International students are not allowed to be self-employed. You must work for an employer and have an employment agreement.

You cannot provide commercial sexual services. This means you cannot:

• work as a prostitute
• operate a New Zealand prostitution business
• invest in a prostitution business.

If you work when you’re not allowed

Working when your visa does not allow you to work is a breach of your visa conditions.

This means:

• you may have to leave New Zealand
• any future visa applications you make may be affected.

Deportation and how you can appeal — Immigration New Zealand

Get an IRD number if you’re going to work

You’ll need an IRD number if you’re going to work. Apply for an IRD number from Inland Revenue after you get your visa.

Give your IRD number to your employer when you start work. Use it for all of your New Zealand tax matters.

New arrival to New Zealand - IRD number application — Inland Revenue 

Make sure you have checked your work rights in your visa before applying for a job.

Working on a student visa — Immigration New Zealand

Advice and tips for finding a job

Check out the New Zealand Education website for information about finding a job in NZ as an international student.

• Work on a student visa
• Find a part-time job
• Employee rights
• Getting paid and tax
• Problems at work
• Employability skills

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Last updated 16 April 2024

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Date printed 01 May 2024

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If you are aware of student visa fraud or nonimmigrant students working unlawfully in the U.S., report it here: Email or Call 1-866-DHS-2-ICE

Call 1-866-DHS-2-ICE to report suspicious activity Report Crime

Nonimmigrant students must comply with certain federal laws and regulations when seeking employment in the United States. Answers to frequently asked questions about on- and off-campus employment are included below  (click a button to jump to the content) .

F-1 Student On-Campus

Basic guidelines, what qualifies as on-campus employment for an f-1 student.

The definition for on-campus employment is in 8 CFR 214.2(9)(i) .

There are two types of limits on the employment . The work must take place either at your school or at an educationally affiliated (associated with the school’s established curriculum or part of contractually funded research projects at the postgraduate level) off-campus location:

• Work that takes place at your school location could be for an on-campus commercial business, like a bookstore or cafeteria, as long as the work directly provides services for students.
• Employment located on-campus that does not directly involve services to students (such as construction work) does not qualify as on-campus employment.
• Work with an employer that is contractually affiliated with the school is on-campus employment even if the work site is not located on the campus (such as a research lab affiliated with your school).

On-campus employment must not displace a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (LPR).

What are the basic guidelines for on-campus employment?

An F-1 student has three main employment-related guidelines:

• May work at any qualifying on-campus job that does not displace a U.S. citizen or LPR.
• May work up to 20 hours per week while school is in session (full-time during those periods when school is not in session or during the annual vacation)
• Should report their work to you and receive a certification letter to present to the Social Security Administration in order to be able to receive a Social Security number .

Not complying with these guidelines for on-campus employment may be a violation of status that could result in the F-1 student having to leave the United States.

What are a designated school official’s (DSO) responsibilities for on-campus employment?

The questions above on "What qualifies as on-campus employment for an F-1 student?" and "What are the basic guidelines for on-campus employment?" define the parameters for on-campus employment.

As the DSO, you have certain responsibilities:

• Number of hours the F-1 student may work
• Type of employment
• Need to maintain F-1 status
• Tax and Social Security implications
• Reporting changes in employment and hours worked
• Have a letter from each employer concerning the nature of the job and the work hours
• Give the F-1 student a letter for Social Security purposes certifying that the job qualifies as on-campus employment and that the student is in F-1 status
• Keep records on the F-1 student’s employment in the school files
• Terminate the F-1 student’s SEVIS record if you know the student is engage d in any unauthorized employment or works hours in excess of those allowed by regulation

When does an F-1 student become eligible for on-campus employment?

An F-1 student may begin working as much as 30 days before the start of a program of study. They should inform the DSO before they begin work.

If an F-1 student finishes a program (such as a bachelor’s degree) and starts another program of study at the same campus, the student may continue on-campus employment as long as the student plans to enroll in the new program of study for the next term. If otherwise eligible, an F-1 student may continue to work on-campus with a pending application for reinstatement or change of status.

Where can on-campus jobs be located?

The job must be physically located on the school’s campus or off-campus at the site of an educationally affiliated organization.

What are the restrictions for students under on-campus employment?

Employment on-campus has to be for the school or for a company that contracts with the school to serve students directly.

For example, if your school contracts with a food service company, an F-1 student can work for the company at school facilities but not for the same company at any off-campus locations.

• An F-1 student cannot work for a company contracting with the school for something other than student services
• An F-1 student cannot work for a company that does not contract with the school, even if the work location is physically located on school property.

For example, an F-1 student cannot work for a construction company, even if the job site is on the campus.

However, an F-1 student may work for a contractually affiliated company such as a school bookstore, because it provides services to students.

What does educationally affiliated mean?

In the case of off-campus locations, educational affiliation means the location meets one of two important criteria:

• Associated with the school's established curriculum
• Related to contractually funded research projects at the post-graduate level

In the case of on-campus locations, educational affiliation means the location meets the following criteria:

• Included in a financial aid package
• Scholarship
• Fellowship or assistantship

May an F-1 student work on-campus after enrolling in a new program of study?

Yes. If an F-1 student finishes one program of study at one educational level (such as a bachelor’s degree) and starts another program of study at the same campus, the student may continue on-campus employment as long as the student plans to enroll for the next term.

If otherwise eligible, may an F-1 student continue to work on-campus with a pending application for a change of status?

For how long may an f-1 student continue to work on campus.

An F-1 student who is enrolled in school, maintains status and follows the guidelines for on-campus employment may continue to work. The F-1 student should keep a DSO informed of any changes in employer and hours, however.

An F-1 student may only work on-campus after the program end date if continuing the education at the next program level at the same school.

Must an F-1 student wait one academic year before starting to work on campus?

May an f-1 student work at more than one on-campus job.

Yes. However, the F-1 student’s total work hours for all jobs cannot exceed 20 hours during the school term. The F-1 student may work full-time during those periods when school is not in session or during the student’s annual break.

May an F-1 student work on campus during the 60-day grace period after the program end date?

No. The 60-day "grace" period after graduation or post-completion OPT is for an F-1 student to prepare to leave the United States, unless the student is beginning a new program of study. An F-1 student may consider applying for post-completion OPT to continue working after graduation.

What are the requirements for an F-1 student who transfers?

When an F-1 student transfers to a new school, on-campus employment is available to the student only at that school after the record release date. The F-1 student cannot work at the prior school after that date.

Is an F border commuter student eligible for on-campus employment?

No. Per 8 CFR 214.2(f)(18) , the only employment in which an F-1 border commuter student may engage is CPT and post-completion OPT.

Approval Process

How does an f-1 student get permission to work on-campus.

An F-1 student automatically has permission to work on campus (unless he or she is a border commuter) but still needs to work with a DSO to ensure the job offered qualifies as on-campus employment.

An F-1 student will need certification letters from the DSO and the employer. The student must present these letters to officials at the local Social Security Administration office to get a Social Security number .

What employment information must a DSO enter into SEVIS?

If the F-1 student intends to list on-campus employment as a means of financial support, the DSO should enter the dollar amount of the anticipated income in the on-campus employment field in SEVIS when they create the student's initial Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) record .

If the student's means of support changes and the student now wants to list on-campus employment, a DSO must update the student's record accordingly.

DSOs may include on-campus employment information in the SEVIS remarks section even if the student does not intend to list this work as a means of support.

DSOs should terminate the student's SEVIS record for unauthorized employment if the student engages in any unauthorized employment or works hours in excess of those allowed.

What employment records should a DSO keep?

SEVP recommends that a DSO keep a copy of the letter from each employer that describes the type of work, the affiliation to the school (if needed), and the number of hours the student will work per week.

DSOs should keep a copy of their letters to the Social Security Administration certifying that the student may work on-campus.

If a school has several campuses in the local area, may an F-1 student work at a different campus?

F-1 students may work at a campus other than the one at which they attend classes if the other campus meets the following criteria:

• Within reasonable commuting distance
• Listed on the same Form I-17, "Petition for Approval of School for Attendance by Nonimmigrant Student"
• Within the DSO’s same jurisdiction

What does an F-1 student need to do to change on-campus jobs?

An F-1 student needs to talk to their DSO before changing jobs. This will allow the DSO to ensure that the new position qualifies as on-campus employment and to ensure the DSO has the correct employment information in the student's SEVIS record.

Are there exceptions to the limit of 20 hours a week for on-campus employment?

The only exception is if the Secretary of DHS suspends this requirement, by means of a Federal Register notice, due to emergent circumstances. The student must demonstrate to you that the extra work is necessary because the emergent circumstance has affected his or her source of support.

DSOs should endorse the student’s Form I-20 with a reference to the Federal Register notice that announced the emergency exception before allowing the student to work more than 20 hours a week.

F-1 Student Off-Campus

What is off-campus employment for f-1 students.

Regulation that defines off-campus employment for F-1 students is in 8 CFR 214.2 (f)(9)(ii) . Generally, it is employment that is for economic need and does not necessarily have to relate to the student's academic course of study.

When is off-campus employment available?

An F-1 student must show an ability to afford the costs of school and living expenses before entering the United States and should not plan to work off-campus. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will authorize off-campus employment only in cases of severe economic hardship occurring after a student's enrollment in an academic program and after the student has been in F-1 status for at least one full academic year, or in emergent circumstances as defined by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

What are emergent circumstances?

Emergent Circumstances are world events that affect a specific group of F-1 students and which causes them to suffer severe economic hardship, including, but not limited to natural disasters, wars and military conflicts, national or international financial crises.

Special Student Relief is the suspension of certain regulatory requirements for an F-1 student subsequent to an emergent circumstances determination, affecting any or all of the following on-campus employment, off-campus employment, duration of status, and full course of study.

What are the guidelines for off-campus employment of F-1 students based on severe economic hardship?

USCIS makes case-by-case decisions for off-campus employment for students who can show that new, unexpected circumstances beyond their control have created severe economic hardship. These may include the following:

• Loss of financial aid or on-campus employment (if the student is not at fault)
• Large increases in tuition or living costs
• Substantial decrease in the relative value of currency the student depends upon to pay expenses
• Unexpected changes in the financial conditions for a student's sources of financial support
• Unexpectedly large medical bills not covered by insurance
• Other substantial, unexpected expenses

An F-1 student must have remained enrolled for at least one academic year, in status and in good academic standing before USCIS will authorize off-campus employment.

The F-1 student must be unable to get on-campus employment, or the pay from available on-campus employment must be insufficient to meet financial needs.

For each request approval, a DSO must provide the F-1 student with a Form I-20, "Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status," endorsed to that effect.

The F-1 student must file a Form I-765, "Application for Employment Authorization," and pay a fee to USCIS. The student should file within 30 days of the day the DSO endorses the Form I-20 . If USCIS approves the application, the student will receive a Form I-766, "Employment Authorization Document," (EAD) from USCIS and can begin working.

Approval for off-campus employment is good for one year. If the F-1 student needs to continue working off-campus, the student must re-apply.

What are the guidelines for off-campus employment for F-1 students based on emergent circumstances?

The guidelines for off-campus employment based on emergent circumstances are in the authorizing Federal Register notice.

The USCIS website has a listing of notices and memorandums for groups currently allowed relief due to emergent circumstances

What does a DSO need to consider before recommending off-campus employment for an F-1 student?

First, a DSO should check to see if on-campus employment is available, and only recommend off-campus employment if available on-campus employment is not sufficient to meet the student's financial needs.

A DSO should ensure the student has read and understands the guidelines for off-campus employment . If the student meets the following criteria, a DSO can recommend off-campus employment:

• Has been in F-1 status for one full academic year
• Is in good academic standing
• Is enrolled in a full course of study
• Can show that working will not adversely impact the ability to attend school full-time and maintain academic standing
• Can show severe economic hardship due to unforeseen circumstances beyond the student's control

How does off-campus work authorization differ from on-campus employment at an off-campus location?

Off-campus work authorization requires case-by-case approval from USCIS. Approval is not based on the student's choice of employer.

On-campus employment at an off-campus location is available to all F-1 students except border commuter students. An F-1 student does not need USCIS approval. However, the employment must be for an employer educationally affiliated with your school. For more details please see the section about on-campus employment

Are border commuter students eligible for off-campus employment?

No. According to 8 CFR 214.2(f)(18) , a border commuter student may only engage in practical training, specifically CPT and post-completion OPT.

Application Process

How does the application process for off-campus employment start.

The process starts when an F-1 student asks the DSO’s permission to seek employment in an off-campus job. After the DSO decides if they should make the recommendation, they enter it in SEVIS . The DSO should print the supporting Form I-20, "Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status," sign pages 1 and 3 and give it to the student.

SEVP recommends that a DSO help the student ensure that the supporting evidence for the Form I-765, "Application for Employment Authorization," clearly shows eligibility.

What is the process for requesting off-campus employment in SEVIS?

See the F/M Student Employment Overview on the Study in the States SEVIS Help Hub.

What does an F-1 student do after receiving a Form I-20 endorsing the application for off-campus employment?

The student must file a Form I-765 with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) within 30 days. See the USCIS website for the form and filing information. The student must pay a fee to USCIS. Electronic filing is available. A DSO should make sure the student reads the form carefully and follows the directions.

As part of the supporting evidence, the F-1 student must include the specially endorsed Form I-20 signed on pages 1 and 2 by a DSO.

If you are unable to issue an updated Form I-20, send USCIS a letter of explanation .

Can a DSO cancel their recommendation for off-campus employment?

Yes. A DSO has the option in SEVIS to cancel their recommendation for off-campus employment – see the SEVIS Help Hub .

How does USCIS adjudicate an application for off-campus employment?

The only reasons for granting work authorization for off-campus employment are economic hardship or emergent circumstances. The USCIS officer will base the decision on the following information:

• Additional supporting materials
• The Federal Register notice governing emergent circumstances, if applicable

How can an F-1 student find out the status of an application for employment authorization?

The F-1 student can check online at the USCIS website using the application receipt number.

What happens if USCIS approves an application for employment authorization?

If USCIS approves an F-1 student's employment authorization application, they will send the student a Form I-766, "Employment Authorization Document," and a letter notifying the student of the decision. In addition, the F-1 student's SEVIS record automatically updates to show the off-campus employment approval.

What happens if USCIS denies an application for employment authorization?

If denying an application for employment authorization for off-campus employment, USCIS will send the F-1 student a denial letter giving the reason(s) for the denial.

Can an F-1 student appeal a USCIS denial of an application for employment authorization for off-campus employment?

No. If USCIS denies an application for employment authorization, the F-1 student will receive a letter that explains the decision. The student can file a motion (by the deadline given in the letter) with the same office to re-open or to reconsider the decision.

By filing a motion, the F-1 student is asking USCIS to re-examine or reconsider its decision

• A motion to re-open must state any new facts that would support the motion. USCIS may require the F-1 student to submit affidavits or other documentary evidence in support of these new facts.
• A motion to reconsider must establish that the decision was based on an incorrect application of law or immigration policy, and further establish that the decision was incorrect based on the evidence in the file at the time USCIS made the initial decision. For information on how to file a motion to re-open or to reconsider, see the USCIS website .

What if an F 1 student cannot afford the application fee for a Form I-765 or motion?

An F-1 student may apply to have the fee waived. For information see the USCIS website .

Work Hours and Period of Work Authorization

May an f-1 student begin off-campus employment with a pending form i-765, "application for employment authorization".

No. An F-1 student must wait to receive the approval from USCIS before beginning off-campus employment.

How many hours may an F-1 student work with authorization for off-campus employment?

See 8 CFR 214.2(f)(9)(ii) for a full explanation of the limits when school is not in session.

Emergent circumstances are exceptions. The Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security may lift the limits temporarily by publishing a notice in the Federal Register.

F-1 students authorized for on-campus employment may exceed 20 hours of work per week during breaks and annual vacation as well.

How long is the authorization for off-campus employment valid?

Authorization lasts for one year. For more information, see the question on When is off-campus employment available?

If an F-1 student has been working off-campus but has an expired current work authorization, may that student continue working while...

If an F-1 student has been working off-campus but has an expired current work authorization, may that student continue working while the new Form I-765 is pending?

No. To avoid this situation, an F-1 student should submit new Form I-765 from ninety days to six months before the expiration of the current EAD.

If USCIS does not approve or deny the Form I-765 within 90 days of receiving the application, the F-1 student may apply for interim employment authorization. See the USCIS website for more information.

Will off-campus work authorization continue if an F-1 student has a pending application for change of status?

Yes, work authorization continues as long as the EAD has not expired and the student otherwise maintains F-1 status.

Can an F-1 student lose permission for off-campus employment?

Yes, it is possible for USCIS to reopen and deny the F-1 student application for off-campus employment. A denied application ends the student’s employment authorization. An F-1 student must maintain status and be in good academic standing. Employment authorization automatically ends if that student does not maintain status. One example of a violation of status is working more hours than authorized.

May an F-1 student at a school apply for a transfer and continue to work off-campus?

An F-1 student whose EAD has not expired may work at the transfer -out school up to the transfer release date, but not after. An F-1 student who needs to continue working off-campus after the transfer must apply at the transfer-in school.

May an F-1 student transferring in to a school with approval for off-campus employment continue working off-campus?

No. This is not permissible on the current EAD authorized on the basis of recommendation from the transfer-out school. A designated school official (DSO) at the transfer-in school must review the student’s circumstances and make new recommendations, if warranted. The student will have to file a new Form I-765 with supporting documents and fees, but does not have to wait a year before reapplying.

May an F-1 student who travels outside the United States resume off-campus employment upon return?

Yes, this is permissible if the F-1 student meets all of the following characteristics:

• Unexpired EAD
• The student still attends the school
• The student is maintaining status

What must a DSO do if the F-1 student works more hours than authorized or works past the date the authorization ends?

The DSO must report this action to SEVP in SEVIS by terminating the student’s record for unauthorized employment.

DSOs should stay in touch with F-1 students and emphasize the need to carefully follow the guidelines for off-campus employment.

Can an F-1 student who has graduated and has an unexpired EAD continue to work off-campus?

The off-campus employment authorization ends 1 year after issuance or upon completion of the program (whichever comes first). An F-1 student may be eligible to apply for post-completion optional practical training upon graduation.

F-1 International Intern

Basic guidelines for designated school officials (dsos), what is an internship with an international organization.

The internship must meet certain criteria:

• With a recognized international organization within the meaning of the 59 Stat. 669, International Organization Immunities Act, (see 22 USC 288 )
• Within the scope of the organization's sponsorship

What does a DSO need to consider before certifying a student's eligibility for an internship at an international organization for a student?

The student must meet certain criteria:

• Be in F-1 status
• Not be a border commuter student
• Be enrolled full-time
• Have a written offer of employment from a qualifying international organization

A DSO does not need to consider either of these items:

• Need or hardship
• Relationship of the internship to the student's field of study

May a border commuter student work as an intern at an international organization?

A border commuter student may not work as this type of intern within the United States. Commuter students may only engage in curricular practical training or post-completion optional practical training.

How does a student apply for approval to work as intern for an international organization?

This student must follow a specific process to complete this application:

• Have a written offer from the organization
• Have a Form I-20, "Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status," from the DSO, signed within the last 30 days , certifying that the applicant is a bona fide F-1 student
• Form I-765, "Application for Employment Authorization"
• Fee for the Form I-765 (See the USCIS website for the form and filing information.)
• Supporting documentation listed on the Form I-765

Where can DSOs and students find recognized international organizations within the meaning of the International Organization Immunities Act...

Where can DSOs and students find recognized international organizations within the meaning of the International Organization Immunities Act (59 Stat. 669)?

These international organizations are available in 8 CFR 316.20 .

How does the approval process for employment as an international organization intern start?

As per 8 CFR 214.2(f)(9)(iii) , the student must first obtain an internship offer with an international organization then work with the DSO and apply for an Employment Authorization Document with USCIS.

If the DSO decides to certify the student's eligibility, the DSO must enter their recommendation into the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). The DSO should then print the supporting Form I-20, sign pages 1 and 2 and give the form to the student.

What is the process for approving employment as an intern at an international organization in SEVIS?

See the F/M Student Employment Overview on the Study in the States SEVIS Help Hub for detailed instructions.

Can a DSO cancel their recommendation for employment as an intern at an international organization?

Yes. A DSO has the option in SEVIS, but only before the student submits the Form I-765 and supporting documentation. See the F/M Student Employment Overview on the Study in the States SEVIS Help Hub for detailed instructions.

How does a student check the status of an application?

Work hours and period of authorization, for how many hours can a student have authorization to work as an intern at an international organization.

This type of employment can be full-time or part-time. However, the student must be full-time student when the school is in session and maintain status .

For how long is the employment authorization for intern employment at an international organization valid?

This authorization is valid for one year. If the job continues to be available, the student must apply for continued employment authorization six or more months before the authorization expires.

Can a student continue working as an intern at an international org. if the current work authorization has expired but a new application is pending?

No. See the related question: Where can DSOs and students find recognized international organizations within the meaning of the International Organization Immunities Act (59 Stat. 669)?

• Information Library
• Contact ICE

Office of Global Services

PhD Students

Georgetown’s classrooms and academic life benefit from an exceptionally talented community of international doctoral students. In addition to the many University resources available to our international Hoyas in F-1 and J-1 status, the PhD website and Frequently Asked Questions provide targeted information to help students maintain legal status and maximize immigration benefits as they pursue their unique academic and professional objectives.

Considerations for F-1/J-1 PhD Students

    f-1 status.

• The majority of Georgetown doctoral students study in F-1 status.
• Students who apply for F-1 work authorization after completion of the dissertation remain in F-1 status while waiting for their authorization to be approved and throughout the 12-month OPT (and when applicable the 24-month STEM OPT) period.
• Doctoral students in F-1 status receive a Form I-20 for 7 years. The document is always shortened when a student defends earlier than expected.
• It is the student’s obligation to contact OGS if the source of funding changes during the period. OGS does not search out the student to present new documentation at the end of the five-year funding period.
• Extending beyond the 7-year period is rare, however, if there are extraordinary circumstances beyond a student’s control, the justification must be presented by the dissertation advisor in writing and the student must submit sufficient funds to cover the length of the extension.
• OGS only keeps F-1 records and related documents for 3 years following completion of studies or any post-completion work authorization period. It is essential that students safeguard their immigration documents with their other government documents.
• F-1 students must enroll in the normative credit requirement on record with the GSAS for their program of study. As part of that normative courseload requirement, only one course can be taken online. Students in the dissertation phase of their studies must enroll in a section of thesis research that makes them full time.

    J-1 Status

• Very few Georgetown students study in J-1 status. It is essential that students review the  F-1/J-1 Comparison Chart (PDF)  prior to selecting J-1 status.
• J-1 status is part of the Department of State’s  Exchange Visitor Program .
• Students in J-1 status are expected to take advantage of the many opportunities available to interact with Americans and learn about the United States.
• J-1 students must submit an evaluation at the end of every internship opportunity.
• Eligibility requirements and restrictions are available on the  Admitted F-1 and J-1 Students page.
• J-1 students cannot research or study abroad outside the United States and leave their SEVIS record active. This means that to return to the United States after each research or study experience would require a new immigration document and a new SEVIS 1-901 Fee. It may also impact the number of months available for Post-Completion Academic Training (AT).
• J-1 students must be authorized for each and every on-campus work position as well as all off-campus work positions. J-1 dependents are allowed to apply to the government for work authorization.
• Some J-1 students have a two-year home residence requirement before they can change their immigration status to a more permanent immigration status.
• J-1 students must enroll in the normative credit requirement on record with the GSAS for their program of study. No online courses may be counted toward the full-time courseload.
• Health insurance is required for all Exchange Visitors and their dependents. The insurance must meet the U.S. State Department’s  health insurance requirements .

    Renewing the F-1/J-1 Visa

• Students are not obligated to renew an expired visa if they do not intend to travel outside the United States. While pursuing a full course of study and making normal progress toward degree, students may remain in the United States with an expired visa stamp.
• All visas must be renewed at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate outside the United States. If you would like to renew the visa prior to its expiration, the Embassy or Consulate will generally accept an application to renew a visa that is expiring within 6 months.
• OGS recommends renewing the visa in the student’s home country to avoid any distress if there is a delay in processing. At the time of the consular interview to renew the visa, the consular officer will ask to see updated funding documents from either Georgetown University or the student’s personal or family funds. Bank statements from family members must be accompanied by a support letter from the person listed on the bank account.
• Students must be prepared to reiterate their nonimmigrant intent at each visa interview.
• OGS recommends bringing a letter from the department confirming the student is making normal progress toward degree completion if renewing a visa after year 5.
• OGS recommends bringing an unofficial transcript to show full-time enrollment each semester.
• Some students wish to renew their expired visas in Canada. Students must check the Canadian website to see if a visa is required to enter Canada as a tourist for the interview at the US embassy. They must also check the U.S. Embassy in Canada website to see if visa applications are considered by citizens of the student’s country.

    Work Authorization

• All off-campus paid and unpaid positions require work authorization prior to the start of the internship/training.
• All GU-funded students with service obligations need a Social Security Number (SSN).
• All first-year students who do not have an SSN but have been awarded a Georgetown non-service stipend will need an ITIN for taxes. To apply for an ITIN, you should wait to file your federal tax return via Sprintax (promo codes available from OGS mid-February to mid-April). Sprintax will assist with preparing your ITIN application in tandem with your federal tax return. Please review our Tax Website for more information .
• Students with a non-service stipend are not permitted to work on-campus, in paid or unpaid positions.
• Students with a service stipend are restricted to a  combined total  of 20 hours per week, for all on- and off-campus positions.
• F-1 PhD students may work on campus without any special authorization and are limited to 20 hours per week during required academic terms. During summer vacation, there is no limit to the number of hours a student can work on campus.
• J-1 PhD students must get OGS authorization to work in each and every on-campus position. Students are limited to 20 hours per week during the academic year and may work full-time during summer vacations.
• Work for any organization other than Georgetown requires authorization prior to beginning the internship/training. Working without proper authorization jeopardizes a student’s legal status.
• Work with an International Organization (IO) is a specific type of off-campus authorization available to students who wish to work with one of the approved international organizations. While an excellent alternative to CPT, the timing is always complicated because these applications are adjudicated by USCIS and take 3-4 months for approval. Students cannot work until they have the application is approved and they have received the Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
• Optional Practical Training (OPT) (3-4 month processing with USCIS)
• Curricular Practical Training (CPT) (3-5 days in OGS)
• Work with an International Organization (IO) (3-4 month processing with USCIS)
• CPT is highly scrutinized by the U.S. government. Students may enroll in internship courses up to 3 times if new skills are being learned each time.
• Many doctoral students use CPT during the program of study if the work is required for completion of the dissertation. In these cases, there is no course enrollment and no limit to the number of times a student can apply for CPT. However, a justification letter is required from the dissertation advisor for each authorization period.
• Students are encouraged to keep detailed and accurate records of the work performed with each authorization to prove that it is integral to the student’s curriculum.

    Dissertation Research Abroad

• Students who wish to keep their F-1 record active and will be engaged in dissertation research abroad must report the foreign address and research dates to their IS Advisor within the first 5 days of each semester. The IS Advisor will report the research abroad in SEVIS. Students are responsible for making sure their I-20 Form has a valid travel signature at every entry to the United States. Travel signatures are valid for 12 months during the program of study. If a student needs a new travel signature while outside the United States, they must register and pay for a FedEx shipment to have the Form I-20 shipped.
• J-1 students must end their J-1 SEVIS record upon departure for any research or study abroad experience longer than 30 days.

    Living Out of the DC/MD/VA Area

• To keep their F-1 or J-1 record active, students who want to conduct dissertation research outside of this area should update their local off-campus address in MyAccess within 10 days of the change or the first 5 days of the semester.

    Dependents

• Students must submit sufficient financial documentation for each of their dependents.
• OGS requires 3-5 days to issue a dependent document when a dependent joins the F-1 or J-1 student during the course of study.
• Children born in the United States to F-1 or J-1 students have American citizenship and do not need a dependent Form I-20 or DS-2019.
• F-2 dependents can study part-time, can volunteer with a charitable or humanitarian organization but cannot be employed in any paid or unpaid capacity.
• J-2 dependents can study full time and apply for work authorization through USCIS. Once they receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), J-2s may begin employment.
• Dependents are generally welcome at all University events. If you are unsure, ask!
• The Premier Plan allows for dependent coverage. The coverage is excellent but expensive.
• If your dependent makes a final departure from the United States, contact OGS to end the SEVIS record to avoid any future problems entering the United States.
• J-2 dependents cannot remain in the United States if the J-1 will be out of the country for more than 30 days. 

    Completion of Studies/Graduation

• Many students complete their doctoral degrees before the end of the 7-year Form I-20 period.
• Graduation and completion are two separate events. Graduation is the administrative conferral of the degree. Completion is either the date of the defense or the date of submission of the dissertation to the Graduate School.
• Students must contact the IS Advisor when setting a defense date.
• Students who complete before the Form I-20 end date must report their early completion to OGS and OGS is required to shorten the immigration document accordingly.
• Students who complete their program early but have a teaching or research obligation as part of their funding in the semester they complete the dissertation, will be shortened to the end of that semester.
• Students who do not have a teaching or research obligation must be shortened to either the defense date or the dissertation submission date.
• Students must declare a completion of studies date to OGS before they will be permitted to apply for post-completion work authorization.
• Students in certain fields may be eligible for the  24-Month STEM OPT Extension . Review the list of applicable programs to determine eligibility.
• View the  PhD OP T Advising Timeline .

    How to Obtain More Information

• PhD specific sessions each semester
• Appointments with IS Advisor
• OGS Employment  page
• OGS Tax  page
• Study in the States  website
• Graduate Career Modules
• J-1 Exchange Visitor  page

Questions about other special PhD considerations? What happens after year 5?  What are my responsibilities if I must depart the United States for more than 30 days for research or study abroad?

• I’m a PhD student. Can I stop studying to work full-time?

PhD students usually have unlimited work rights.

• Can I change my course and education provider?
• Can I change my sponsor?
• Can I do unpaid work while studying in New Zealand?
• Can I extend my visa if I failed one of my papers?
• Can I stay in New Zealand after my studies?
• Can I undertake 2 courses at the same time if one course is by correspondence?
• Can I work full-time and study part-time?
• Can I work while studying?
• How long can I travel or be away overseas?
• I am unable to leave New Zealand before my visa expires. What can I do?
• Staying for a graduation ceremony after your studies
• My scholarship funding has stopped. Can I apply for a further student visa?
• Can I get a refund of my application fee?

Option A: Check your visa conditions

You don’t need to suspend your studies in order to work full-time but you must still be studying your PhD full-time.

Option B: Talk to your education provider

If your education provider lets you suspend your studies for an extended period of time, they may need to notify us of this. They will advise you of this and any next steps.

If your education provider doesn't let you suspend studies, and you don’t want to continue studying your PhD full-time, you may need to apply for a new visa.

Option C: Apply to stay longer

If you have completed your PhD thesis and it has been submitted for examination, you can apply for a Post Study Work Visa.

Post Study Work Visa

If you don’t want to continue studying your PhD, but you want to remain in New Zealand, you must apply for a new visa.

Explore visas that let you visit, work, study, live or invest in New Zealand.

Explore and select a visa

Current students

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Working while on a student visa

Most students do some amount of paid work while studying. It is important to be aware of some specific rules that may affect you if you'll be working while on a student visa. You should also understand your rights as an employee, and be aware of how our Careers Centre can help you to find paid work.

It can be challenging to find work, and it’s important to think about how you’ll balance work and study. Remember to give yourself time to enjoy being a student and getting involved in student life.

If you do decide to work, you should first check you’re eligible, get an Australian tax file number and read about your rights and responsibilities working in Australia. The University’s Careers Centre offer services that can help you find a job.

How many hours you can work

It’s important to check your visa conditions so you understand all the restrictions on your work. You can do this on the Department of Home Affairs Visa Entitlement Verification Online system (VEVO) .

If you are on a student visa , you are limited to working up to 48 hours per fortnight during semester and unlimited hours during university holidays. A fortnight is calculated as a 14-day period starting on a Monday. You won’t be able to work until after your course has started. If your employer requires confirmation of the university holiday period, you can submit a request for letter .

If you’re a postgraduate research student on a student visa, you can work unlimited hours during your studies. However, bear in mind that your visa requires you to maintain a full-time enrolment and complete your course within the duration specified in your electronic Confirmation of Enrolment (eCoE).

If you have dependent family members included on your student visa, they are also eligible to work.

Tax file number

To be paid for working in Australia and pay the right amount of tax, you’ll need to get a tax file number (TFN). This is a unique number that stays the same even if you change your job, personal details or residency status.

When you start work, your employer will ask you to fill out a Tax file number declaration to provide your TFN.

Apply for a TFN on the Australian Taxation Office website .

Careers Centre

The University’s Careers Centre offers a range of resources and services to help you find employment, both during and after your studies.

The centre provides advice on looking for work, writing your resume and cover letters, improving your interview and communication skills, and long-term career planning.

Read the Career Centre’s advice for international students .

Finding a job

To apply for jobs you’ll need an up-to-date resume and a cover letter written specifically for each job you apply for. You may also need to respond to selection criteria. The University’s Careers Centre can help you prepare and apply for work .

You can search for work on the University’s CareerHub , or on websites such as Seek , CareerOne and Indeed .

Find out more about using job search websites .

Your rights at work

It’s important that you’re aware of your rights and responsibilities as a worker in Australia, and where you can go for help and advice. For example, every worker has rights around minimum wage, workplace health and safety, and discrimination.

Information and advice about working in Australia is provided by the Australian Government’s Fair Work Ombudsman .

Related links

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• Fair Work Ombudsman
• Australian Taxation Office (ATO)
• Academic progress

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Working on a student visa

You are allowed to work a limited number of hours while in Australia on a student visa.

Work restrictions

From 1 july 2023, work restrictions for student visa holders will be re-introduced..

Student visa work restrictions were relaxed throughout the pandemic, and completely removed in January 2022 to allow primary and secondary student visa holders to work over their normal limit of 40 hours per fortnight to address workforce shortages. This will end on 30 June 2023.

From 1 July 2023, work restrictions for student visa holders will be re-introduced and capped at the increased rate of 48 hours per fortnight.

Student visas are subject to  condition 8104 or 8105 , which allow limited work in Australia. Under these conditions:

• You (and your dependants, if any) can only work after you have commenced your course
• You (and your dependants, if any) must adhere to the work hour restrictions set out in your visa conditions.

For a complete overview of work conditions, please see the  Department of Home Affairs website .

Student work hour restrictions

Dependant work hour restrictions.

*48 hours per fortnight takes effect from 1 July 2023

More information

A fortnight is a 14-day period which starts on a Monday and ends on a Sunday. You may not work more than 48 hours during any fortnight (after 1 July 2023).

For example, if you worked the following hours:

• Week 1: 10 hours
• Week 2: 30 hours
• Week 3: 20 hours
• Week 4: 20 hours

You would have worked more than 48 hours during the second fortnight (weeks 2 and 3) and would be in breach of visa conditions.

Your course is considered in session:

• For the duration of advertised semesters, including examination periods (even if you do not have any exams) and mid-semester breaks
• Any time you are enrolled in one or more subjects which will count as credit towards your main course.

To find out the Semester 1 and Semester 2 dates, as well as the examination period dates, see the University dates page . If you are enrolled in an  intensive or non-standard subject, refer to the subject's entry in the  University Handbook for teaching and assessment period dates.

Many organisations across Australia, including employers, recruitment agencies and banks, can also check your work conditions after getting your consent.

If someone wants to you to verify your work rights, provide them with a copy of your visa grant letter or a link to  Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO).

The Careers and Employability team provides support for students to obtain work during studies and after graduation. Current opportunities are posted on the Careers Online: Jobs Board .

Internship subjects

Hours worked for internship subjects undertaken as electives will count towards your student visa work hour limits.

Hours worked for internship subjects which are a mandatory requirement of your course will not count towards your student visa work hour limits.

If you’re unsure whether your internship is mandatory, check the  list of courses with a mandatory work experience component .

Undertaking an internship while offshore

If your course has a for-credit internship opportunity, you can work with your faculty internship coordinator on gaining approval to undertake your internship in your home country. Some opportunities are also being advertised through faculties . For some professional programs, it may not be possible to undertake practicum requirement outside of Australia.

Internship visa requirements for international students outside Australia

You do not need an Australian student visa to undertake an internship, either in-person or remotely, while you are outside of Australia. However, you should think about obtaining a visa so that your time studying remotely is counted towards your study period for your post-study work visa application.

Courses with a mandatory work experience component

The following courses have a work experience component included in their CRICOS registration. Work experience hours required for these courses will not count towards your visa work hours limit.

• Associate Degree in Urban Horticulture
• Bachelor of Oral Health
• Bachelor of Fine Arts (Production)
• Doctor of Clinical Dentistry
• Doctor of Dental Surgery
• Doctor of Medicine
• Doctor of Physiotherapy
• Doctor of Veterinary Medicine
• Executive Master of Arts
• Graduate Certificate in Modern Languages Education
• Graduate Certificate in Modern Languages Education (Stream A)
• Graduate Certificate in TESOL
• Graduate Certificate in TESOL (Stream A)
• Graduate Diploma in Pedagogy
• Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Early Childhood)
• Master of Agricultural Sciences
• Master of Biotechnology
• Master of Business Analytics
• Master of Clinical Audiology
• Master of Computational Biology
• Master of Creative Arts Therapy
• Master of Data Science
• Master of Ecosystem Management and Conservation
• Master of Environment
• Master of Environmental Science
• Master of Industrial Research (Chemistry)
• Master of Marketing Communications
• Master of Music (Orchestral Performance)
• Master of Music (Performance Teaching)
• Master of Music Therapy
• Master of Nursing Science
• Master of Production Design
• Master of Social Work
• Master of Teaching
• Master of Teaching (Early Childhood and Primary)
• Master of Teaching (Early Childhood)
• Master of Teaching (Primary)
• Master of Teaching (Secondary)
• Master of Theatre (Voice)
• Master of Translation
• Master of Translation (Enhanced)

Voluntary work

One way to gain work experience and professional skills is to work as a volunteer. Hours spent volunteering will not count towards your student visa work hour limits, if:

• your main purpose in Australia continues to be your studies (and any work remains a secondary activity)
• the work is genuinely voluntary, and would not otherwise be undertaken by an Australian resident as employment
• the activities are for a non-profit organisation and no remuneration (in cash or kind) is received in return.

For more information, see the  Fair Work Ombudsman fact sheet on unpaid work .

Workplace rights

If you will be working while in Australia, it's important to understand your workplace rights about things like pay, working conditions and health and safety.

Our careers website has information about pay rates, work rights, and employment contracts. It also has specific information about your work rights during an internship .

Other useful resources include:

• Know your workplace rights from the Fair Work Ombudsman
• Study Melbourne's free work rights legal service for international students.

Study at Cambridge

About the university, research at cambridge.

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Full-time Students

Taught postgraduate students.

Taught students undertaking taught Masters courses (for example, the MPhil by Advanced Study) are normally expected not to work during term-time. Students should consult their Faculty and Department for further details regarding vacation dates when they may be able to work. Any time between the end of the final term and the dissertation submission deadline should not be considered as vacation as students are still expected to be working on their studies at this time.

Research postgraduate students 

[Note: this guidance does not apply to current University of Cambridge employees who are approved to undertake a postgraduate research degree at the staff fee rate.]

Full-time postgraduate research degrees at Cambridge are academically demanding. Postgraduate Research students are expected to devote around 40 hours per week to their studies throughout the year, except during holidays (up to 8 weeks per year) agreed with their supervisor. They should therefore regard the time spent on their studies as similar to a full-time occupation.

Students are encouraged to balance their academic study with personal interests, extra-curricular activities that enhance their Cambridge experience, and activities that support their wellbeing. The University recognises that some students may also wish to combine their studies with paid or voluntary work.

Before engaging in work, students are advised to give careful thought to what would be realistic and manageable alongside their 40hr/wk full-time study commitment plus any extra‑curricular activities or other demands on their time.

Students on a Student/Tier 4 visa must comply with immigration working conditions that restrict the type of work permitted, and ensure they have a formal contract of employment/worker's agreement or similar in place before undertaking any employment including undergraduate supervisions (see information under 'Students holding a Student/Tier 4 visa' below).

Type of work

Work can take many forms, both paid and voluntary, either within the University or in external organisations. Within the University, students usually work in academic-related or voluntary/outreach roles. Examples of academic-related work include supervising undergraduates, invigilating examinations, working in a University/College library, demonstrating in a laboratory, or (for clinicians) working within Cambridge University Health Partners.

Students should engage with some basic training before undertaking any teaching/supervising; to this end, the Cambridge Centre for Teaching and Learning  offers training.

Students who wish to work, especially those considering a future career in academia, are encouraged to consider academic-related employment opportunities that may arise. The transferable skills that students receive from academic-related employment are also valuable for other career pathways.

Hours of work

The University recommends limiting work to 6-10hrs/wk. In exceptional circumstances, and to accommodate one-off events, students may be able to combine effective study with longer working hours, but this must only be undertaken after explicit discussion with their supervisor and their college tutor.  Even in such exceptional circumstances, students must never in any case exceed a maximum of 20hrs work each week, which includes both paid and unpaid work.

Students may work for more than one employer but must ensure that the combined number of hours worked each week does never in any case exceed the limit allowed. Students are responsible for monitoring the number of paid and unpaid hours they work each week.

The vacation dates used by undergraduate students do not apply to postgraduate research students. Students may take breaks for holiday of up to 8 weeks per year at times agreed with their Supervisor, but such periods should not be used for the purpose of undertaking work.

Permissions

Permission to work is not required, but the University strongly encourages students to discuss their plans in advance with their supervisor, in order to assess any potential impacts on their academic progress.  Supervisors can provide advice specific to the student’s research activities, stage of their studies, and proposed timeline for completion, as well as helping the student explore how to manage work in the context of their commitments and wellbeing. Students should also discuss their plans with their College Tutor. As stated above, students who wish to work over 10 hours per week must discuss this with their supervisor and their college tutor.

Students who wish to work alongside their studies are expected to follow these principles:

• Academic study must take priority: any work should still allow the expected full-time hours to be spent on research and private study.
• Work should be scheduled around academic commitments: students may find that the timing of certain types of work is easier to accommodate outside their academic commitments.
• Work should not impact negatively on a students’ studies, or delay or interfere with research: the consequences of working cannot be used as extenuating circumstances for late submission of work or an extension to the thesis submission deadline.
• Paid work may provide an additional income but should not be required to support essential living costs. Students who are experiencing financial pressures should speak to their college tutors, and access maintenance grants that are available via the colleges and the university.
• Funding bodies may impose their own limitations on the amount of paid employment that can be undertaken: students in receipt of funding are responsible for checking the terms and conditions of their award before undertaking any paid work.
• Students on a Student/Tier 4 visa are responsible for ensuring they comply with the working conditions of their immigration permission which includes restrictions on the type of work permitted (see below).

Students holding a Student/Tier 4 visa

Students on a Student/Tier 4 visa must ensure they fully understand and comply with the working conditions of their immigration permission. A student visa restricts the number of hours a student can work and does not permit self-employment, engaging in business activity, or certain other types of work. It is essential that students on a Student/Tier 4 visa obtain a formal worker's agreement or employment contract before undertaking any work, including undergraduate supervisions or other work within the Collegiate University. Please note that you may find that other students (who are not on a Student visa) may not need to have the same documentation in place. Students are advised to read the full guidance about working on a student visa to prevent working in breach of their visa conditions.

Students who wish to undertake work:

• should ensure that they are aware of any visa or tax implications with regards to their employment or employment status. 
• may be liable for tax and potentially national insurance payments depending on their circumstances. Any monies earned would be considered income which is potentially taxable.

The taxable status of a studentship may depend on whether the recipient is required to provide work as an element of the studentship.

Further information can be found at  https://www.gov.uk/tax-come-to-uk  or should be sought from the Faculty, Department, College or external employer, although the University is not able to provide personal tax advice to students.

Staff unions

Research students may be interested in joining their local Unite or University and College Union (UCU) branches. Their websites can be found here:

• Unite website
• University and College Union (UCU) website

Part-time students

Part-time students are not restricted in the hours they can work, but their admission interview will explore the extent to which they will be able to manage their work and study and their Supervisor is asked to keep the balance between these elements under review.

Related links

• Researcher Development Programme

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Working on a student visa after study

Information about working after your studies on a Tier 4 or Student Visa.

The following advice has been revised from 15 November 2023. This follows UKVI clarification about when they will consider a student to have completed their course.

Eligibility

If your Tier 4 Student Visa remains valid once you’ve completed your course you can work full-time, within the following limits:

• You cannot fill a full-time permanent vacancy (other than on a recognised Foundation Programme)
• You cannot be self-employed
• You cannot be employed as a professional sportsperson, coach or entertainer
• You can work unlimited hours once you’re considered to have completed your course, but not in a permanent role.

Most students will be granted four months 'wrap up' time after the end of their course. This is usually the course end date as stated in your last CAS. For most students this will be the same as your course end date on your student record. You’re allowed to work during this time as it’s considered vacation time.

You can get a letter from SSiD which will confirm your official course end date which you can use to prove your right to work full time to employers.

When will you be considered to have completed your studies

• For PhD students, course completion means you have submitted your final E copy of your thesis after corrections.
• For Masters students, this will be the official course end date as per your last CAS. This is normally the registration end date as shown on your official student status certificate. It is not the date you submit your final dissertation, which could be sooner.
• For Undergraduate students this will be the official course end date as per your last CAS. This is normally the registration end date as shown on your official student status certificate.

An employer's guide to right to work checks  also confirms your right to work after you have completed your course. This can be useful to refer to if employers are unsure about your right to work.

Repeating studies

If you later fail your exams and are repeating any modules or coursework during the wrap up period, you will be a term-time student and you should only work 20 hours per week.

If you are working, you should inform your employer as soon as possible, as you will no longer have the right to work on a full time basis.

If you complete your course early

If you complete your course early we have to report this to UKVI. This could result in your visa being curtailed to 4 months after the new course end date.

You should work for a maximum of 4 months after the completion of your course or until the end of your student Visa, whichever comes soonest.

The University can only report early completion when you have completed all academic studies and received your official results. We will inform you by email if we are doing this and you can start full-time work from that point.

Taking a permanent role

You cannot start a full-time permanent role whilst holding a Student visa.

You may be able to start work full time for an employer in a permanent role if you’ve completed your degree and have made a Skilled Worker visa application. Check with your employer/sponsor.

Course completion in this scenario means the official course end date as per your CAS.

PhD students can apply for a skilled worker visa after 24 months of study but should only start working full time for the sponsor when the Skilled worker has been granted

If your Student visa was granted  after 6 April 2022 , you can also start work full time in a permanent role if you have:

• successfully completed your course;  and
• made a  Graduate Immigration Route  visa application

Successful completion is the date that you receive your official results not the course completion date.

If your student visa was granted  before 6 April 2022 , you must not start full-time work until your Graduate Route visa has been granted.

Related information

Working in the UK on a Student Visa

UKCISA guidance on student work

GOV.UK immigration rules: Work conditions for a student

Information for students

The Student Services Information Desk (SSiD) answers a range of general student related enquiries

• Migration Strategy
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• State and Territory Government resources to support international students
• Australian Strategy for International Education
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• Announcements

The rights of international students at work

International students have the opportunity to work in Australia while studying. It can be a great way to experience the local culture and connect with the community.

On this page:

International students have the same workplace rights and protections as anyone else working in Australia.

Here’s what you need to know before starting to work in Australia:

• You must be paid at least the minimum wage​
• ​You must pay tax on your income
• You must receive a payslip
• From 1 July 2023, you can work up to 48 hours every fortnight during term time (unless you are a PhD and master's by research student), and unlimited hours during your holiday breaks.
• If you were already working in the aged care sector on 9 May 2023, you can continue to work unrestricted hours in the aged care sector until 31 December 2023.
• Casual work means you don’t have a fixed number of hours every week.

International students can contact the Fair Work Ombudsman for help if they’re having workplace issues, without fear of their visa being cancelled. This could be for issues such as not getting the right pay or other entitlements, like leave or notice.

Check out the video below to see how the Fair Work Ombudsman can help international students.

Download the work ready fact sheet to learn about your rights at work and help you prepare for working in Australia.

Case Study – Felipe’s story

Felipe shares his story about how the Fair Work Ombudsman helped increase his awareness of workplace rights, including busting a common workplace myth. Felipe’s story is based on a true story.

The video provides information to international students on their workplace rights and the assistance which the Fair Work Ombudsman can provide them.

Are your work rights at risk?

• ​International students have the same workplace rights and protections as anyone else working in Australia, but sometimes your work might not feel right.
• How do you know if your rights are at risk? How do you know if your rights are at risk? Download the warning signs flyer to learn about the warning signs of workplace exploitation.
• If you think you are not being treated fairly at work, talk to your boss or contact the Fair Work Ombudsman for help. There is free advice in multiple languages for anyone working in Australia. Phone - 13 13 94   Online -  Fair Work Ombudsman

Go to the following pages to see this information in other languages:

• Hindi [हिन्दी]
• Indonesian [Bahasa Indonesia]
• Portuguese [Português]​
• Simplified Chinese [简体中文]
• Traditional Chinese [繁體中文]
• Spanish [Español]
• Vietnamese [Tiếng Việt]

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Working in the UK during studies

If you hold a valid Student visa, there will be restrictions on the amount and type of work you are allowed to do inside the UK. We have guidance for during your course and about after studies, during your visa 'wrap up period' up until the visa expiry date.

Student or Tier 4 visas impose strict restrictions on working in the UK. The main purpose of your student visa is to allow you to study in the UK, not work. If you hold a Student or Tier 4 visa, you must adhere to the working restrictions attached to it. These conditions will be outlined in your decision letter. You are required to abide by the visa conditions attached to your Student visa as confirmed in your decision letter.  

Eligibility to work while studying

Your eligibility to work in the UK while studying will depend on your visa permission. 

Standard Visitor visa  

If you have immigration permission as a Standard Visitor, you are not permitted to do any kind of work including voluntary work, paid or unpaid, volunteering or to undertake internships or work placements as part of your studies. 

Visitors may undertake volunteering provided it is for a registered charity and will be for no longer than 30 days in total. 

Permitted activities and restrictions attached to Standard Visitor visa  

Student visa  

If you are on a Student or Tier 4 Student visa, your eligibility to work will be outlined in your visa decision letter. Please make sure that you are familiar with your work conditions. Your entry clearance vignette (visa sticker in your passport) and/or your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) card will tell you if you are allowed to work, including the work limit. 

If you are an EU/EEA national or a non-visa national then you will have received your grant digitally.  This will outline your Student visa conditions and working rights.  

You must check your visa or BRP to ensure that the work conditions are correct. If they are not, you may be able to get this corrected. 

Find out how to correct your visa

What work am I allowed to do on a Student visa?

Your Student or Tier 4 visa allows limited working rights in the UK. Your work rights are connected to your visa and student status, so you must stop working immediately if your visa expires or if it is curtailed by the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).  

You will be subject to a maximum number of hours per week for working during term time. The term-time period can change depending on the programme you are studying so you must ensure that you are aware of the term time and vacation periods for your specific programme.  

A working ‘week’ is defined as a 7-day period starting on a Monday and ending on the following Sunday. 

As a Student or Tier 4 Student visa holder you can only work if you are considered an ‘employee’. Your Student or Tier 4 visa will allow you to work: 

20 hours in any given week during term time if you are studying a full-time programme at degree level and above 

10 hours in any given week during term time if you are studying a full-time programme below degree level 

Full time during vacation periods and after your official course end date 

On a work placement, which must be an integral and assessed part of your programme of studies 

As a sabbatical officer in a Students’ Union for up to 2 years 

Find out more about sabbatical officers

Read more about work placement

If your course of study is below degree level ,you will be able to work 10 hours per week during term time and full-time during vacations. 

During term time you can work up to 10 hours (maximum) per week. 

You can work full-time after your official programme end date until your Student visa expires, provided you have no further engagement or attendance requirements. 

Programme specific information on work rights  

If your programme is below degree level (pre-sessionals or international foundation programme) .

If your course of study is below degree level, you will be able to work 10 hours per week during term time and full-time during vacations. 

Undergraduate students (including MEng, MPhys and MMath) 

If your course of study is at degree level or above you are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during term time, and full time during vacations. Please see the University website to check your official vacation periods. 

During term time you can work up to 20 hours (maximum) per week. 

During vacation periods you can work full-time.  

You can work full-time after your programme end date (as confirmed on your student record) until your Student visa expires, provided you have no further engagement or attendance requirement.  

Taught postgraduate students (Masters / MSc) 

Please always check with your school to confirm the specific term time and official vacation dates for your specific programme. .

During Winter and Spring vacation periods you can work full-time. 

Masters’ students do not have Summer vacation*. Term time conditions apply during the summer term (dissertation period). You can only work full-time after your course end date on your student record.  

You can work full-time after your programme end date until your Student visa expires, provided you have no further engagement or attendance requirement. 

* If you are doing a 2 year postgraduate programme (e.g. MLA or MSW), you may have a summer vacation period between year 1 and year 2.  Please check with your school to confirm the specific vacation dates for your programme. 

Postgraduate research students (MSc by Research / MPhil / PhD) 

During Term Time you can work up to 20 hours (maximum) per week. 

You do not have any designated official vacation periods. You are in term time all year unless you have written permission/approval from your supervisor to take a period of annual leave.  

Your supervisor must agree and confirm the dates for the annual leave in writing. You can work full-time hours during your agreed annual leave period (outside of Term time).  

PhD students may take up to eight weeks of annual leave period per year. PhD students may choose to take this vacation between the submission of thesis and their viva exam, during which they may work full time, providing this is fully approved and recorded as a holiday period by the school. However, some employers will not allow you to work full-time hours during this period. This will depend on the employer's policy. 

You must revert to the usual Term Time part time (no more than 20 hours per week) restrictions when you are studying again, from the date of your viva until you submit your final e-thesis. The formal course end date for Postgraduate research students (PhD / MPhil) will be after the completion of all the academic work, i.e. submitting your final e-thesis after any final corrections.  

Please note that some doctorate-level programmes may have designated vacation periods that are different from what is outlined above. If in doubt, please contact your School. 

Code of Practice for Supervisors and Research Students  

What are my vacation periods?

Vacation periods are different depending on what programme you are studying. 

Undergraduate programmes have 3 vacation periods in line with the University calendar:

• Winter vacation (Christmas holidays)
• Spring vacation (Easter holidays)
• Summer vacation

Postgraduate taught students may have 2 official vacation periods if they follow the standard academic dates as shown on the University calendar:

Please always check with your school to confirm the specific Term Time and official vacation dates for your specific programme as they may follow non-standard academic dates.

• 1 year Masters students do not have vacation during the summer period as this is the dissertation/research module and you are expected to study on a full time basis throughout course

Postgraduate Research students can request 8 weeks of annual leave per year, which they can take at any time, in agreement through their School. W e understand the vacation allowance for individual students to be in relation to their academic year and based on the student’s start date. 

What work am I not allowed to do on a Student visa? 

If you are on a Student or Tier 4 visa, both during and after your studies, you must not: 

Work as a self-employed person 

This includes freelancing and ‘gig-economy’ work, such as Deliveroo or Uber drivers 

any work or trading as a freelancer, contractor or consultant is highly likely to be considered self-employment, which is not permissible under Student visa work conditions 

Engage or take part in business activity 

Fill or undertake a full-time permanent vacancy or graduate level role (unless it is a post as a Student Union Sabbatical Officer) 

Take a full-time internship or work placement during term time that is not an assessed and integral part of your studies 

Work or take employment as an entertainer or as a professional sportsperson, including a sports coach 

If you are not sure if you are being asked to work as self-employed, please check with the Student Immigration Service BEFORE commencing work. Working in breach of your immigration permission is a serious offence and can have implications on your ability to remain in the UK. 

You can find difference between ‘employee’ and ‘self-employed’ on the government website on the link below:

Employment status: Overview - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

Find out more about working permissions on UKCISA website

Volunteering vs. Voluntary Work 

You can volunteer while you are studying. Volunteering is different from unpaid employment (Voluntary work). Volunteers will normally help a registered charity or voluntary or public sector organisation.  

If you are volunteering with an organisation, you must not: 

have a contract of employment 

take the place of an employee 

not receive payment for your contribution, including payment in kind 

You are permitted to undertake voluntary work in the UK. Voluntary work will be counted in your permitted working hours. 

As a voluntary worker you 

are usually paid in some form 

often have a contract with an employer 

If you are unsure you should check with the organisation whether what you are doing can be regarded as unpaid employment. Any time spent on unpaid employment or voluntary work counts towards your maximum number of hours of work during a week.  

UKCISA advice on volunteering  

Working after completion of your course 

Your Student or Tier 4 visa is granted for the full duration of your course plus 4 additional months (if you are studying at degree level or above), also known as the ‘wrap-up period.’ Once you have reached the official programme end date of your course, you can work full-time during the validity of your Student visa permission. 

The formal course end date for Postgraduate research students (PhD / MPhil) will be after the completion of all the academic work, i.e. submitting your thesis after final corrections.  

You can work full-time hours on a temporary contract up until the expiry date of your Student visa.  

If you have completed your course early, your visa will end earlier. This means you may only work the 4 months following your new course completion date.  

Before your Student visa expires you must:  

Apply for the Graduate route visa if you are eligible,  

Look for sponsorship from an employer and apply for the Skilled Worker visa,  

Apply for another eligible visa route that would allow you to remain in the UK, or  

Leave the UK before your Student or Tier 4 visa expires.  

Proving right to work in the UK  

From 6 April 2022, employers can no longer accept Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) cards as evidence of your right to work in the UK. Instead, you must obtain a ‘share code’ from UKVI which you can then give to the employer so they can then do their checks online.  

How to obtain a share code from UKVI  

If an employer needs additional evidence of term dates so they know when you may be allowed to work more hours than the restriction stated on your visa, along with your share code, you can provide:  

a printout from the University's website confirming semester dates for employment; and/or

a Certificate of Matriculation that confirms your programme end date. 

• See semester dates 2023/24 for employment

You may also refer to the University academic year pages at:

• Academic year structure | The University of Edinburgh  
• Current academic year | The University of Edinburgh ​​​​​​

Please note that whether you are on a vacation period is determined by the type of course you are studying. Please see the ‘ Programme specific information on work rights ’ section of this page for more information on this. 

Where your employer requires further confirmation of your entitlement to work, they can contact the Home Office Employers’ Helpline . 

University recommendation on working while studying

If you are a full-time student, the University recommends you do not work more than 15 hours per week for undergraduate and postgraduate taught students. The University will not employ full-time postgraduate research students for more than an average of 9 hours per week across the academic year, and we recommend that postgraduate students apply this limit to employment outside the University.

Information for students employed as tutors and demonstrators can be found here:

Academic Services - Tutors and demonstrators

Careers Service

The Careers Service has lots of useful information and resources to help you navigate the UK graduate job market.

Work placements and internships for Tier 4/Student route visa holders

Working as a sabbatical officer.

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Working on a student visa

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The University applies strict working restrictions on students.

The term 'student visa' on this page refers to immigration permission issued under both Tier 4 and the Student route. Tier 4 was replaced by the Student route on 5 October 2020.

Working hours

Students should ensure they are aware of the University's working restrictions which are generally stricter than the number of hours you can work on a student visa. The following is therefore provided for information.  

A student visa issued for full-time degree level studies allows you to work for a maximum of 20 hours per week during term-time. This is a maximum of 20 hours in total in any one week, including paid or unpaid work and for one or more organisation. The 20 hours cannot be averaged over a longer period.  A 'week' is defined by the Home Office as a period of 7 days beginning with a Monday. This also includes both paid and unpaid work. The University imposes greater working restrictions, as outlined above, and you will need to adhere to these.

A student visa issued for full-time degree level studies allows you work full-time during official vacation periods. Term and vacation dates differ depending on the level of study you are undertaking so it is important you check these before undertaking full-time work. This includes a full-time internship or placement unless it is part of your course. Please note that the term and vacation dates used by undergraduates do not apply to postgraduate research courses and some taught Masters courses. Masters students should consult their Faculty or Department for further details regarding official vacation periods during their studies and should be aware of the official end date of their course as stated on the CAS used to apply for the student visa. The academic year for postgraduate research students is continuous throughout the year, from 1 October to 30 September. It is therefore not possible, for example, for a postgraduate research student to undertake full-time work during the summer period. Whilst breaks for holidays are permitted, at times agreed with your supervisor, these are not periods that would permit full-time work. Whether you can work after submission of your thesis for examination varies depending on the stage of the process as outlined in the information below. 

Type of work

Students on a student visa can do most kinds of work, but you must not:

• be self-employed;
• engage in business activity;
• work in a position that would fill a full-time permanent vacancy;
• work as a professional sportsperson including as a sports coach, paid or unpaid, as defined by the Home Office on pages 94-95 of the Student route guidance ;
• work as an entertainer, paid or unpaid;
• work as a doctor or dentist in training, unless you are on the foundation programme.

These restrictions apply throughout your time on a student visa. 

Self-employment

A student visa does not allow self-employment. Self-employment normally includes activities such as freelance writing or publishing, private tutoring or selling goods or services directly to an end customer, for example as a consultant. If you are not on the employer or agency's employee payroll, it is likely the work being offered is on a self-employed basis. If you are unsure, it is important you check your employment status prior to starting work.

In order to undertake work you should be given a formal document by the employer such as a 'contract of employment' or a 'worker's agreement' or some other written statement confirming your employment status. This includes where you will be undertaking work for one or more of the Colleges, or for the University. Please note you may find that other students (who are not on a student visa) may not need to have the same documentation in place.

Postgraduate students undertaking undergraduate supervisions, or students undertaking other work in College, must contact their College to arrange a formal worker's agreement before starting the activity if they hold a student visa. 

Engaging in Business Activity

A student visa does not permit you to engage in business activity. The Home Office defines this as working for a business in which you have a financial or other significant beneficial interest in a capacity other than as an employee. The Home Office provides some examples of the types of circumstances in which you would be considered to be engaging in business activity: setting up a business that is trading or has a trading presence; being employed by a company in which you hold shares of 10% or more; or working for a company where you hold a statutory role, such as a director. However, this is not an exhaustive list. If you are unsure whether this restriction would apply in particular circumstances, you should seek further guidance from the International Student Office prior to undertaking the activity.

Filling a permanent full-time vacancy

A student visa does not permit you to work in a position that would fill a permanent full-time vacancy. This means any work you undertake on a full-time basis where permitted, for example after completion of your course as outlined below, must be in a temporary position (i.e. the contract ends on a certain date). There is an exception to this if you applied for your student visa on or after 6 April 2022 and you make an application for the  Graduate visa  following successful course completion, in which case you can start a full-time permanent role whilst this new visa application is pending. 

Undertaking an internship / work placement

A student visa would only permit you to undertake an internship in the following circumstances:

Undergraduate students are able to undertake an internship during the official University vacation periods. The employer will need evidence of the academic calendar as confirmation of the vacation dates when you are permitted to work full-time. Acceptable evidence would be a printout of the academic calendar from the University’s website. Medical students undertake work placements as part of their course and the International Student Office provides details of these placements to the Home Office at the beginning of the relevant academic year.

Masters students are able to undertake an internship during the official vacation periods. These dates vary depending on the course so you should consult your Faculty and Department for further details regarding the official vacation periods. A small number of Masters courses include the option of a short internship/placement as part of the course. If this applies to your course it will be included in the course handbook. As an embedded part of the course, this is permitted on a student visa but the International Student Office will need to provide the internship/placement details to the Home Office in advance so it is important that you keep your Faculty or Department informed of the details and any subsequent changes. You should also be aware that the restrictions on the type of work you can undertake on a student visa, as outlined on this page, continue to apply. This includes not undertaking an internship/placement on a self-employed basis. 

Information for PhD students is outlined on our 'PhD - Internships and visa considerations' webpage. 

Volunteering

You can volunteer on your student visa but the Home Office makes a distinction between volunteering and voluntary work. Voluntary work is considered unpaid employment and is therefore restricted on a student visa, along with any other paid work, to 20 hours a week during term-time (note the University’s working restrictions are greater and information on defining term-time is outlined under ‘Working hours’ above). Even if the opportunity is advertised as 'volunteering', it could still be considered voluntary work.

The Home Office advises taking the following into consideration to help determine if it is voluntary work or volunteering:  

• Voluntary workers will usually have contractual obligations to perform the work (e.g. to attend at particular times and carry out specific tasks) with the employer being contractually required to provide the work – the contract does not have to be written. The worker is usually remunerated in kind. 

• Students who are volunteering do not have a contract, they must not be a substitute for an employee and they must not be doing unpaid work – i.e. receiving payment in kind (although they are sometimes reimbursed for reasonable travel and subsistence expenses). 

It is advisable to check with the organisation offering the volunteering opportunity whether it would be regarded as unpaid employment.

For PhD students - working after submission of thesis for examination

​ After you submit your thesis for examination, the number of hours you can work on a student visa will depend on the stage of the process:

• The period between submission of thesis for examination and official notification of viva outcome is considered to be 'vacation' and you can work full time.
• The period between official notification of the viva outcome and unconditional approval of degree, which includes time working on corrections if applicable and submission of the hardbound thesis, is considered a return to full-time study. You can only work for up to 20 hours a week. 

The restrictions on the type of work you can undertake on a student visa, as outlined above, continue to apply. 

Working after studies

After your course has ended and whilst your visa remains valid, the Home Office allows you to work full-time on a student visa. The restrictions on the type of work, as outlined above, continue to apply. 

For PhD students, the end of the course is unconditional approval of degree.

For Masters and undergraduate students, the end of the course is either receiving official notification of approval of your degree OR the course end date as stated on your CAS as long as you have completed all required assessment for your course by this date, whichever is earlier. For students studying on an MPhil by Research examined by thesis and oral, when you can work full-time depends on the stage of the examination process and you are advised to contact the International Student Office for further guidance.

If you need any clarification about the working conditions on a student visa, contact the International Student Office for further advice.

You may also wish to consider switching to the Graduate visa after successful completion of your course.

University's responsibilities

In accordance with sponsor licence requirements, the University must notify the Home Office if it becomes aware a student is breaking the conditions of their student visa. This includes working in breach of the visa conditions. 

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Optional Practical Training (OPT) for F-1 Students

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Optional Practical Training (OPT) is temporary employment that is directly related to an F-1 student’s major area of study. Eligible students can apply to receive up to 12 months of OPT employment authorization before completing their academic studies (pre-completion) and/or after completing their academic studies (post-completion). However, all periods of pre-completion OPT will be deducted from the available period of post-completion OPT.

Types of OPT

All OPT must be directly related to your major area of study. If you are an F-1 student, you may be eligible to participate in OPT in two different ways:

• Pre-completion OPT : You may apply to participate in pre-completion OPT after you have been lawfully enrolled on a full-time basis for one full academic year at a college, university, conservatory, or seminary that has been certified by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) to enroll F-1 students. You do not need to have had F-1 status for the one full academic year; you can satisfy the “one full academic year” requirement even if you had another nonimmigrant status during that time.

If you are authorized to participate in pre-completion OPT, you may work (20 hours or less per week) while school is in session. You may work full time when school is not in session.

• Post-completion OPT : You may apply to participate in post-completion OPT after completing your studies. If you are authorized for post-completion OPT, you must work part time (at least 20 hours per week) or full time.

Impact of Pre-completion OPT Employment Authorization on Requests for Post-completion OPT at the Same Education Level

If you have already received 1 year of part-time (20 hours per week) pre-completion OPT, the total time of full-time OPT still available would be reduced by 6 months, 50% of the previously authorized year at the same education level. In this scenario, you would only be entitled to a remaining period of 6 months full-time post-completion OPT employment authorization.

If you have already received 1 year of full-time (40 hours per week) pre-completion OPT, the total time of full-time optional practical training still available would be reduced by 1 year, 100% of the previously authorized year at the same education level. In this scenario, you would not be entitled to any period of post-completion OPT employment authorization.

STEM OPT Extension

If you have earned a degree in certain science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields, you may apply for a 24-month extension of your post-completion OPT employment authorization if you:

• Are an F-1 student who received a STEM degree included on the  STEM Designated Degree Program List  (PDF) ;
• Are employed by an employer who is enrolled in and is using E-Verify; and
• Received an initial grant of post-completion OPT employment authorization based on your STEM degree.

If you are interested in applying for a STEM OPT extension, please see our  Optional Practical Training Extension for STEM Students (STEM OPT ) page for more information.

Applying for OPT

Generally, you must:

• Request that your designated school official (DSO) at your academic institution recommend the OPT. Your DSO will make the recommendation by endorsing your Form I‑20, Certification of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status, and making the appropriate notation in the  Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) .
• Properly file  Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization  with USCIS, accompanied by the required fee and the supporting documentation as described in the form instructions.

When to apply

You may begin your pre- or post-completion OPT only after we approve your Form I-765 and you receive your Employment Authorization Document (EAD).

If you file your STEM OPT extension application on time and your OPT period expires while your extension application is pending, we will automatically extend your employment authorization for 180 days. This automatic 180-day extension ceases once USCIS adjudicates your STEM OPT extension application.

Transferring to a Different School or Beginning Study at Another Educational Level

If you transfer to another school or begin studies at another educational level (for example, you completed a bachelor’s degree and are starting a master’s program), your authorization to engage in OPT employment will automatically terminate. SEVP will inform USCIS of the termination date, and USCIS will terminate your EAD accordingly. 

Although your authorization to engage in optional practical training will end, as long as you comply with all requirements for maintaining your student status, your F-1 status will not be affected by USCIS terminating your EAD. Maintaining your student status includes not working on a terminated EAD, as the termination means that you are no longer authorized to work in the United States using that OPT EAD. Working in the United States without authorization has serious consequences, including removal from the country and reentry bars. Also, remaining in the United States in violation of your lawful nonimmigrant status could lead to an accrual of unlawful presence. Please see USCIS Changing Policy on Accrued Unlawful Presence by Nonimmigrant Students and Exchange Visitors for more information regarding termination of your employment authorization under OPT and any impacts on your student status, including the possible accrual of unlawful presence. If you feel that your EAD has been wrongfully terminated, would like to request reconsideration of the EAD termination, or if you have other questions, see your DSO. 

Cap-gap Extension for F-1 Students with Approved H-1B Petitions

If you are an F-1 student with a timely filed H-1B petition and change of status request, and your F-1 status and employment authorization will expire before the change of status to H-1B occurs (typically Oct. 1), you may be eligible for a cap-gap extension. Go to our  Cap-Gap Extension page  for more information.

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I’m an international student, can I work while I’m studying?

Working part-time as a student can help you to develop a number of useful skills, alongside studying for your degree. If you are on a Student visa, you must follow certain rules if you wish to work throughout your studies, depending on your level of study.

Undergraduate Students

Undergraduate students doing a full-time degree , can  work a maximum of 20 hours per week during term time , and c an work full-time during University vacation periods.

Masters students

Masters students on a Student visa can work a maximum of 20 hours during the summer period  as this time is when you should be completing your dissertation, so it doesn't count as vacation time. This means you're limited to the 20 hours per week during the summer period and up until after the end date listed on your CAS (even if you've already handed in your dissertation before this date). If you're on a Student visa, there are reasons why the standard end date of 30 September benefits you:

• It means that your course at King’s covers 12 calendar months. As a result, you get a 4-month “wrap-up” period at the end of your visa. This allows you to work full-time, and also gives you time to switch to another visa (e.g. the Graduate route). If your course was shorter than 12 months, you'd only have 2 months to “wrap-up”.
• The 4-month period that expires at the end of January the following year should also cover the winter graduation ceremony, so you don’t usually need a new visa to attend this.  

You can check the  Academic Calendar for more information on term time dates for each Faculty and Department.

PhD students

As you work throughout the year, term time dates don't apply to you so you're limited to 20 hours per week while you're completing your PhD. You should be entitled to 8 weeks of annual leave, and you can work more than 20 hours during your annual leave periods.

Important to know : annual leave needs to be officially agreed with your supervisor.

Part-time students

Students on a part-time Student visa are not permitted to work in term time, vacations or, on non-work placements.

Students can undertake any sort of work apart from the following:

• Be self-employed or engage in business activity; or
• Work as a professional sportsperson (including as a sports coach); or
• Work as an entertainer; or
• Work in a position that would fill a permanent full-time vacancy
• We can't produce a letter that states your working conditions and when you're able to work full-time. It's your employer's responsibility to check your right to work through the Government's website .
• Through Student Services Online , you can request a letter that states the university's term time dates.

Important to know:

• If you are unsure of how many hours you are able to work during your studies, your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) will also state the maximum amount of hours you are able to work while studying.
• You’ll be told what you can and cannot do on a Student visa, once your visa application has been approved.

If your course is longer than 12 months, y our student visa is likely  continue for up to 4 months after your course end date. Your end date will be:

• Undergraduate: the end of the summer term as specified in the Academic Calendar
• Postgraduate taught: the course end date listed on your CAS
• Postgraduate research: the award date of your PhD (as confirmed by the Research Degrees team)

When you reach your course end date, you can start working full-time until your visa expiry date, for a maximum period of 4 months. Therefore, it's important that  before  you reach your visa expiry date/the 4 month period after your course end date, you apply to switch into another immigration category. Otherwise, you'll have to leave the UK. During this 4 month period, you may have the option to switch to another visa which permits you to work in the UK after your Student visa or Tier 4 visa expires. You can see more information on the different options on the UKCISA website .

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• Visas and immigration
• Work in the UK

Graduate visa

A Graduate visa gives you permission to stay in the UK for at least 2 years after successfully completing a course in the UK.

You must be in the UK when you apply.

Eligibility

You can apply for a Graduate visa if all of the following are true:

• you’re in the UK
• your current visa is a Student visa or Tier 4 (General) student visa
• you studied a UK bachelor’s degree, postgraduate degree or other eligible course for a minimum period of time with your Student visa or Tier 4 (General) student visa
• your education provider (such as your university or college) has told the Home Office you’ve successfully completed your course

You can ask your education provider if you’re not sure whether they’ve told the Home Office you’ve successfully completed your course.

Check if your course is eligible and how long you need to have studied in the UK .

If you’re not eligible for a Graduate visa, you may be eligible for another type of visa to stay in the UK .

How long you can stay

A Graduate visa lasts for 2 years. If you have a PHD or other doctoral qualification, it will last for 3 years.

Your visa will start from the day your application is approved.

If you want to stay longer in the UK

You cannot extend your Graduate visa. However, you may be able to switch to a different visa, for example a Skilled Worker visa .

Check you can apply for another type of visa to stay in the UK .

How to apply

You must apply online .

Your partner and children can also apply to stay in the UK if they are eligible.

When to apply

You must apply before your Student visa or Tier 4 (General) student visa expires.

You can apply after your education provider (such as your university or college) has told the Home Office that you’ve successfully completed the course you took with your Student or Tier 4 (General) student visa. You do not have to wait until you’ve graduated or have been given a certificate.

As part of your application, you’ll need to prove your identity and provide your documents.

Your application may take longer if you need an appointment to do this. You’ll find out if you need one when you start your application.

Getting a decision

Once you’ve applied online, proved your identity and provided your documents, you’ll usually get a decision on your visa within 8 weeks.

You can stay in the UK while you wait for a decision.

How much it costs

When you apply for a Graduate visa, you’ll need to:

• pay the £822 application fee
• pay the healthcare surcharge - this is usually £1,035 for each year you’ll be in the UK

Check how much it will cost .

If you work in public sector healthcare

If you’re a doctor or nurse, or you work in health or adult social care, check if you’re eligible to apply for the Health and Care Worker visa instead. It’s cheaper to apply for and you do not need to pay the annual immigration health surcharge.

If you get a job in public sector healthcare after you have paid the healthcare surcharge, you may be able to get a refund .

What you can and cannot do

With a Graduate visa you can:

• work in most jobs
• look for work
• be self-employed
• continue living in the UK with your partner and children , if they’re eligible
• do voluntary work
• travel abroad and return to the UK

You cannot:

• apply for most benefits ( public funds ), or the State Pension
• work as a professional sportsperson

If your application is successful, you’ll get a full list of what you can and cannot do with a Graduate visa.

Studying with a Graduate visa

You can only study with a Graduate visa if your chosen course is not eligible for a Student visa . If your course is eligible for a Student visa, you can extend your Student visa instead.

You may need an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate if you’re studying or researching sensitive topics.

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Work off campus as an international student 

On this page.

• If you’re a part-time student at a DLI

If you’re on an authorized leave

If your study permit doesn’t have work conditions on it.

• During regular school terms/semesters

During scheduled breaks in the school year

If your study situation changes, changing the conditions on your study permit, if you already applied for a work permit, if you’re starting a new study program, working outside canada, who can work off campus.

You and your employer must make sure you can work off campus without a work permit before you start working . If you start working off campus but don’t meet the requirements, you may have to leave Canada.

You can only start working in Canada when your study program has started. You can’t work before you start your studies.

If you’re able to work during your studies, it’ll say so in the conditions on your study permit.

If you’re eligible for off-campus work, you don’t need a work permit.

Eligibility requirements

You can work off campus without a work permit if you meet  all  of these requirements:

• You’re a full-time student at a  designated learning institution (DLI)
• a post-secondary  academic ,  vocational  or  professional training  program  or
• a secondary-level vocational training program (Quebec only)
• is at least 6 months long and
• leads to a degree, diploma or certificate
• You’ve started studying
• You have a social insurance number (SIN)

If you’re a part-time student at a DLI

You can work off campus only if:

• you meet  all  of the requirements above, except the requirement to be a full-time student,
• you’re in the last semester of your study program and you don’t need a full course load to complete your program and
• you were a full-time student in your program in Canada, up until your last semester

If you’re on an  authorized leave from your studies , or you’re switching schools and you’re not studying, you  can’t  work off campus. You can only return to work once you’re back to studying.

Get a social insurance number to work in Canada

A SIN is a 9-digit number that the Government of Canada gives you. You need one to work in Canada.

To  apply for a SIN to work off campus , you must have 1 of these conditions printed on your study permit:

• may work 20 hours per week off campus or full-time during regular breaks if meeting criteria outlined in  paragraph 186(v)  of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations.
• may accept employment on or off campus if meeting eligibility criteria, per  paragraph R186(f), (v) or (w)  and must cease working if no longer meeting these criteria.

You can ask to have these conditions added if you’re eligible to work off campus . There’s no fee to add these conditions to your permit.

You must request an amendment to your study permit  before you can apply to Service Canada for a SIN.

How many hours you can work off campus

During regular school terms or semesters.

You can work up to 20 hours per week . You can work more than 1 job to make up these hours as long as you continue to meet the conditions of your study permit.

Who can work more than 20 hours per week off campus

Under a temporary public policy, you may be eligible to work without a work permit for more than 20 hours per week off campus during regular academic sessions. To be eligible, you must meet the following requirements:

From November 15, 2022, to April 30, 2024, you can work more than 20 hours per week off campus if you’re in  any  of the following situations:

• You’re a study permit holder who is studying at a DLI full time (or part time if it’s your final academic semester).
• Your study permit has expired, but you have  maintained your status and are studying at a DLI full time (or part time if it’s your final academic semester).
• You’re approved for a study permit but haven’t arrived in Canada yet.

In addition, you  must  meet all of these requirements to be eligible:

• You are in Canada or have re-entered Canada by April 30, 2024.
• May work 20 hours per week off campus or full time during regular breaks if meeting criteria outlined in paragraph 186(v) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations.
• May accept employment on or off campus if meeting eligibility criteria, per paragraph R186(f), (v) or (w) and must cease working if no longer meeting these criteria.

If neither of these conditions is printed on your permit,  you must request an amendment .

From January 1, 2024, to April 30, 2024, you can work more than 20 hours per week off campus if you’re in  any  of the following situations:

• Your study permit has expired, but you have maintained your status and are studying at a DLI full time (or part time if it’s your final academic semester).

In addition, you  must  also meet all of these requirements to be eligible:

• May work 20 hours per week off campus or full time during regular breaks if meeting criteria outlined in paragraph 186(v) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations.
• May accept employment on or off campus if meeting eligibility criteria, but per paragraph R186(f), (v) or (w), and must cease working if no longer meeting these criteria.

If neither of the conditions above is printed on your permit,  you must request an amendment .

You need to stop working more than 20 hours per week without a work permit on whichever date below comes first:

• the date the study permit you’re applying to extend expires, or
• on April 30, 2024

If you’re no longer eligible to work more than 20 hours a week off campus, you may be able to work up to 20 hours per week under the standard eligibility requirements.

You can work full-time if you’re on a scheduled break, such as winter and summer holidays, or a fall or spring reading week. You’re free to work overtime or work 2 part-time jobs that add up to a higher than usual number of hours.

You must be a full-time student both before and after the break to work full-time.

You can’t work during a break that comes before you start your very first school semester.

How many hours count as full-time work

There is no set number of hours per week that counts as ‘full-time’ work. However, your employer(s) must follow all provincial laws on overtime pay and time between shifts.

If your program doesn’t have scheduled breaks

You can work up to 20 hours per week .

Working more than 20 hours per week is a violation of your study permit conditions. You can lose your student status for doing this, and may not be approved for a study or work permit in the future. You may also have to leave the country.

How to calculate your hours

You’re responsible for both of the following:

• Hours are defined as any time you spend earning wages or collecting a commission, even if you’re on call during these hours and not actually working.
• actively pursuing your studies
• not working more than 20 hours per week
• meeting any other conditions listed on your study permit

Self-employed students

If you’re a self-employed person, you’re also responsible for keeping track of the hours you work off campus and proving that you’re complying with the conditions of your study permit.

Hours are calculated as any time you spend doing any of the following:

• earning wages
• being paid wages for performing a service or selling a product
• collecting a commission for performing a service or selling a product

Who can’t work off campus

You  can’t  work off campus without a work permit if any of these situations apply to you:

• your study permit says you aren’t authorized to work off campus while you study
• you’re only enrolled in an English or French as a second language (ESL/FSL) program
• you’re only taking general interest courses
• you’re only taking courses required to be accepted into a full-time program
• your situation changes and you no longer meet all of the requirements to work off campus

If any of these situations apply to you, and you want to work while studying in Canada, you need to  apply for a work permit .

If you weren’t eligible to work off campus, but your study situation has now changed, you may be able to change the conditions of your study permit.

You can apply to change the conditions of your permit if:

• you’ve changed your study program to one that may allow you to work off campus  and  
• your study permit says “This permit does not permit the holder to engage in off-campus employment in Canada”
• we included a condition on your study permit that may no longer apply

Example: You have a study permit to complete prerequisite courses, such as an ESL or FSL course. You’re then accepted into a full-time study program. This would mean you could apply to have the condition (not being allowed to work off campus) removed from your study permit.

You must apply to change the conditions of your study permit. There’s a fee to make this change. You must change the conditions on your permit before you can apply for a SIN.

You’ll need to  apply for a new study permit from within Canada .

When you apply online, your personalized checklist will include the Application to Change Conditions, Extend my Stay or Remain in Canada as a Student [IMM 5709]. On that form, check the box to Apply for a study permit for the first time or extend my study permit and fill out the rest of the required fields.

Include a letter with your application explaining why you need the condition removed from your study permit.

Working after you complete your study program

After you complete your study program, there are 2 ways you may be able to work full-time:

• you already applied for a work permit  before  your study permit expired or
• you’re starting a new study program

You need to meet all the requirements listed below to work full-time. If we refuse your work or study permit application, you must stop working and leave Canada.

You can work full-time if you meet  all  of these requirements:

• You were already able to work off campus during your studies
• You applied for a work permit or post-graduation work permit (PGWP) before your study permit expired
• You’re waiting for a decision on your work permit application
• You were already able to work off campus during your previous studies
• You have a valid study permit or you applied to extend your study permit before it expired
• You received written confirmation from your current school that you completed your program
• You received a letter of acceptance to a new full-time study program at a  DLI
• You’ll start your new program within 150 calendar days of receiving the confirmation that you completed your previous program

You can work remotely for an employer outside Canada as long as you still meet the conditions of your study permit . This type of work doesn’t count towards your 20 hours per week off-campus work limit.

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How to Get a Work Visa in the United States

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The United States remains one of the most desirable job markets in the world. It’s an incredibly large country, with some of the largest, most innovative companies. Additionally, the U.S. is either the top or one of the top producers in the world in multiple sectors, like agriculture, energy, and technology. The economy often needs foreign workers to sustain growth and perform jobs where domestic labor is in short supply. Many people want to know how to get a work visa in the U.S. This article provides job search resources for foreign nationals seeking skilled or unskilled employment in the United States.

How to Find a Job in the U.S.

The most straightforward way to get a job in the U.S. is if you are already in-country. For work authorization, you need to apply for an  Employment Authorization Document (EAD) . It’s not a visa, and physical presence in the U.S. doesn’t make you automatically eligible. You must be lawfully present in a status that accommodates employment authorization. For example, visitors on B-2 or F-1 visa generally are not eligible. Some common categories where you can apply for an EAD include:

Adjustment of Status Applicants

The end result of the  adjustment of status process  is a green card. A green card provides work authorization in the U.S. for the permanent resident. But adjustment of status applications (Form I-485) take a while to process, and many people would like to work while waiting. Getting an EAD allows you to work while you wait for your permanent status.

DACA or TPS

Individuals whom the USCIS has granted Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) or Temporary Protected Status (TPS) are in a lawful status that also is eligible for work authorization.

Generally, enrolled students are not in a category that’s eligible for employment authorization. If you have an F or M visa, you would apply for your EAD as part of your  Optional Practical Training  (OPT) application, which lets you get experience related to your area of study once you finish your college degree in the U.S. The Career Services office at your college or university is a great place to start if you’re looking for a job.

Asylum Seekers

If you are requesting asylum in the United States, you can apply for an EAD while your case is processed. The EAD application is the same for asylum seekers as it is for other immigrants.

Apply for an EAD by filing  Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization . Each category has specific requirements for eligibility and supporting documentation. Need help? You can apply for your Employment Authorization using  CitizenPath’s Employment Authorization Package . It’s designed by immigration attorneys with step-by-step instructions to guarantee application approval at USCIS. Once you have employment authorization, you can  begin your search .

How to Get a U.S. Work Visa as a Foreign National Who is Outside the U.S.

You do need explicit permission to work in the United States. You can’t just show up on a visitor visa and begin job search. By law, U.S. employers must verify the identity and employment authorization of individuals hired for employment. Therefore, you typically need to enter with a U.S. work visa that permits employment. There are several types of visas designed for this purpose. The specific type of visa you need depends on your:

• Field of work;
• Connection to your employer (are you employed on a local branch or no previous relation); and
• Country of origin (some countries have visa quotas or may have more options than others because of partnership agreements in specific fields like education and nursing).

If you are unsure of the kind of visa you would need for a specific job, you can check the State Department’s  Visa Wizard  website.

If you’re not authorized to work in the United States, there are still ways in which you can find a job. Let’s go over a few possible options:

Investor Visas

E-2 visa for treaty investors.

Nationals of countries that maintain a treaty of commerce and navigation with the United States may be eligible for an investment-based non-immigrant visa. The E-2 visa is designed to give certain foreign nationals the ability to start a business and develop jobs in the U.S. It does have a requirement for a substantial financial investment, and you must be a national from one of these countries.

Temporary Employment Visas

L-1a visa for executives and managers.

If you are in an executive or management position in a multinational company, you could transfer to the U.S. to work for your same company. Under this visa, you could come to work in the U.S. either at the U.S. office of your company, or to set up a new office if there isn’t one operating yet. To qualify for the L-1A visa, you must have worked in an executive or managerial position for your company for at least a year from the previous three years before applying. If you get it, the L-1A visa allows you to stay in the U.S. for a year, with possible two-year renewals until you reach seven years.

TN Visa for Canadians or Mexicans

Canadian and Mexican citizens have a unique opportunity to qualify for an employment-based visa that allows work in a wide variety of industries. It’s also fairly simple to obtain. In addition to citizenship in Canada or Mexico, you’ll need an education or commensurate experience in your job field. With TN status, you can live and work in the United States for an initial period of three years. You may renew your status in three-year increments as long as needed.

The H-1B visa gets a lot of attention because of its popularity. These visas routinely run out quickly because of the demand. U.S. employers sometimes cannot find employees within the domestic workforce to fill certain specialty occupations. This is common in the technology sector. After going through an exhaustive  labor certification process , these employers may hire foreign nationals to fill the positions. The jobs are generally highly-skilled and well-compensated positions. The initial duration of stay for the H-1B visa is three years, but employers can generally extend the duration.

Seasonal and Temporary Jobs

The United States does provide visas for unskilled labor to enter the country for seasonal and temporary jobs in certain farming and non-agricultural jobs. The U.S. employer starts the process for obtaining a temporary H-2 work visa with a request that they cannot find the workers needed inside the U.S. Once approved by the U.S. government, the employer will send the documents to the foreign national. The company does all the paperwork in the U.S., and the applicant only goes to the U.S. embassy or consulate as a final step to process the visa once the employer sends you these documents.

Types of Seasonal and Temporary Visas

Seasonal and temporary jobs are divided in two types:

• Agricultural (H-2A visa)
• Non-Agricultural (H-2B visa)

The Department of Labor’s  Seasonal Jobs  website is a great place to start looking for these types of jobs. Agricultural positions may include work planting, picking, greenhouse care, applying fertilizer, and general farm maintenance using hand tools, among others. Some agricultural positions are outside in weather that could be harsh, and may involve long periods of standing or kneeling. Keep that in mind if you have any injuries.

Non-agricultural positions may include landscaping and gardening, housekeeping, restaurant work, seafood processing and packing, and working in construction.

The Seasonal Jobs website highlights top categories of jobs, specific locations (which may be important if you want to go somewhere you have family or friends), categories of seasonal jobs, and even crops if you’re an agricultural worker that wants to pick something specific based on your experience.

A similar website to find and apply for seasonal and temporary jobs is the  H2 Job Board . Similar to the DOL’s website, you can create a profile and apply for jobs in different parts of the United States. You can also sign up for job alerts to receive notifications on jobs that match your profile.

You may renew an H-2 visa; however, they are subject to numerical and country caps. There are specific visas set aside for workers from the Northern Triangle (Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador). The rest of the numerical cap goes to all other applicants. In recent years, businesses hiring workers under these visas have  requested numerical increases , which signals a high need for seasonal workers.

Visitor Exchange Programs

BridgeUSA  is a State Department program through which professionals like teachers and physicians work in the U.S. in their field. It also connects au pairs, camp counselors, interns, and professors, among other categories. You can see the requirements of each type of position in this  comparison chart . Generally, these visitor exchange visas are valid for one year, and you may potentially renew them for up to three years.

To apply to a visitor exchange program, you can click on the  program categories  to find a sponsoring institution and apply for openings. You are only allowed to work for your sponsoring employer in the activity listed on your visa application.

Best Job Sites for Foreign Nationals Seeking U.S. Employment

Myvisajobs.com.

Myvisajobs.com claims to be the largest and most trusted employment website for foreign workers seeking opportunities in United States. They aim to provide data-driven and self-guided job searching services. The company uses data from a variety of sources, including public web sites, job boards, social networks and government agencies (Dept. of Labor, Census Bureau, IRS and FBI), for its analysis and modeling. It’s a great place to start to explore the job market.  Try Myvisajobs.com >>

Jooble can make the search for U.S. jobs easy and accessible. It’s an international job search website that aggregates numerous job vacancies in one place. Jooble operates in the same way as the search engines do. When a user performs a search, all active job openings related to that search are presented. Jooble can also help foreign job searchers refine their search specific to employment-based visa opportunities in the United States. For example, you can add “ visa sponsorship ” in the search to find relevant vacancies in the United States.  Try Jooble.com >>

CareerBoard

CareerBoard is a nationwide, and even overseas job, search engine, connecting skilled and unskilled professionals with current openings in the United States and other countries. CareerBoard’s search filters include a “visa sponsorship” option, which allows job seekers to see which jobs will complete the necessary visa processes on their behalf to work in the U.S.  Try Career Board >>

LinkedIn allows you to connect to professionals all over the world and showcase your experience and knowledge. While LinkedIn allows you to include on your profile some of the information that you would include in a traditional resume, it goes beyond a simple resume.

It’s a business networking site first and a job search tool as well. For example, you can include links to your previous work and any accomplishments, such as honors and awards. This may help recruiters see whether your experience is a good fit for their needs. It’s possible to specifically state you are looking for a particular type of position. You can also connect with thought leaders and engage directly with people of different positions through professional conversations. Then, search for the jobs you’re most interested in – including positions that may be matched to your profile.  Try LinkedIn >>

Indeed is the largest job search website in the world with over 250 million users monthly. You can search for positions at any level – from entry level to senior executive positions. You can specifically search for jobs that provide visa sponsorship, which allows you to focus your search on companies that clearly state they will go the distance and complete the visa sponsorship process for a successful candidate.  Try Indeed >>

Despite all the opportunities in the American job market, employment-based visas, temporary or otherwise, still follow an extensive and time-consuming process. This was especially true during the pandemic, when the government suspended many types of employment-based visas. Numerical and country-based caps in many of the visa categories make the process time-sensitive. It also means that even with a job offer, your visa could be denied for one of these reasons. As you progress through your search for how to get a work visa in the U.S., persistence and perseverance are important characteristics.

Discover where you may find the  best positions  depending on your area of expertise for your field and which states have more opportunities for you. Along with these pages, the U.S. Department of Labor also offers a section where you can search for job openings.

Finding a job in the U.S. may be daunting, but there are opportunities available no matter your level of experience or skill in almost every industry. Whenever you are submitting an application to USCIS, use a guaranteed service like CitizenPath, providing every support you may need built into your package to ensure your success.

About CitizenPath

CitizenPath provides simple, affordable, step-by-step guidance through USCIS immigration applications. Individuals, attorneys and non-profits use the service on desktop or mobile device to prepare immigration forms accurately, avoiding costly delays. CitizenPath allows users to try the service for free and provides a 100% money-back guarantee that USCIS will approve the application or petition. We provide support for the  Adjustment of Status Application (Form I-485) ,  Application for Employment Authorization (Form I-765) , and several other commonly used  USCIS forms .

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Why studying, working in Canada will change this year for expats

Canada has adjusted regulations to permit international students to engage in off-campus work alongside their studies, while also changing eligibility criteria for the much-sought post-graduate work permit. It is also making changes to its laws including the start-up visa programme to curb the high influx of foreigners read more

Recent changes in work regulations for international students in Canada are set to impact their ability to balance work and study. Effective 30 April, 2024, a temporary policy allowing students to work more than 20 hours per week off-campus has been terminated.

Canadian Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, Marc Miller, stated, “The temporary policy allowing students to work more than 20 hours per week off campus will come to an end on 30 April, 2024, and it will not be extended.” This decision, part of broader initiatives by the Canadian government, aims to address a surge in international student enrolments across the country.

What are the revised work limits?

International students with valid study permits will now be restricted to a maximum of 20 hours of work per week during the academic year. However, they can still work extra hours during the approaching summer break.

The weekly limit will increase to 24 hours come September. Exceeding these limits could lead to jeopardising one’s study permit, potentially resulting in its revocation and the student’s subsequent return to their home country before completing their program.

What are the reasons behind the change

The decision to revise work limits is backed by research indicating that students who work over 24 hours weekly are at a higher risk of dropping out, with over 28 hours associated with a considerable decline in academic performance.

Miller emphasised the importance of maintaining the primary focus on studying while acknowledging the role of off-campus work in providing students with work experience and financial support.

“Working off campus helps international students gain work experience and offset some of their expenses. As international students arrive in Canada, we want them to be prepared for life here and have the support they need to succeed. However, first and foremost, people coming to Canada as students must be here to study, not work. We will continue working to protect the integrity of our student programme,” said Miller.

Canada initially waived the 20-hour work cap for international students during the Covid-19 pandemic to address labour shortages. However, with the situation improving, the government has reinstated the work limits.

Most countries hosting international students impose similar restrictions on work hours. For instance, Australia recently adjusted its policy to allow students to work 48 hours every two weeks, while the US requires additional criteria for off-campus work eligibility.

What are the changes in Post-Graduation Work Permit eligibility?

Starting 15 May, 2024, international students enrolled in college programs delivered through public-private curriculum licensing arrangements will not qualify for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP) upon graduation. This change affects new enrollments, while existing students will remain eligible if they meet all other criteria.

These alterations follow the government’s decision to increase the cost-of-living threshold for study permit qualification in December 2023.

What are the changes in PGWP?

Effective February 15, 2024, changes to the post-graduation work permit program (PGWP) have been implemented, allowing students completing master’s degree programs, even under two years, to qualify for a 3-year PGWP, provided they meet all other eligibility criteria.

However, starting September 1, 2024, students enrolled in curriculum licensing agreement programs will no longer be eligible for a PGWP. Special measures for distance learning and PGWP validity have been extended until August 31, 2024.

International students graduating from designated learning institutions (DLIs) may be eligible for a PGWP, granting them an open work permit in Canada. The duration of the PGWP depends on the level and length of the study program, with graduates of programs at least two years in length eligible for a 3-year PGWP.

Applicants can apply for a PGWP from abroad if they leave Canada after completing their education, and there’s a 180-day window for application submission after finishing the study program.

Changes in Start-Up Visa Program & Self-Employed Persons Program

In July last year, Canada aimed to enhance its start-up visa program, but a recent announcement has altered the landscape for aspiring immigrant entrepreneurs. Effective 30 April, 2024, Canada has capped the number of permanent residence applications associated with no more than 10 startups per designated organisation.

This significant change comes as a response to the pressing need to reduce backlog and enhance processing times for immigration applications. As per the release issued by the Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), there are currently approximately 82 designated organisations comprising venture capital funds (VCFs), angel investors, and business incubators. This implies that not more than 820 applications will be accepted, assuming the number of designated entities remains constant.

This move is intended to reduce backlog and improve processing times. Miller announced a full pause on application intake for the Self-Employed Persons Program starting 30 April, 2024, to address processing delays. While these changes are aimed at streamlining immigration processes, they have garnered mixed reactions from entrepreneur-funding sectors and immigration experts.

According to a 2022 report by the Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE), Canada stands as the third most favoured destination for Indian students. The report disclosed that there were 319,130 Indian students studying in Canada. Notably, Indian students occupy the majority of international student seats in colleges and universities throughout the country.

With inputs from agencies

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