Working part-time while studying abroad: hour limits, salary and legal notes

🔄 Cập nhật lần cuối: 08/10/26

Working part-time while studying abroad helps you cover part of your living expenses, hone your skills and gain experience working abroad. But each country sets its own work hour limits for international students, and violations can seriously affect visas. This article summarizes regulations on working hours, salaries, benefits and important legal notes in countries popular with Vietnamese international students.

Limit overtime hours when studying abroad in different countries

The table below is compiled according to the most recent announcements by government agencies of each country at the time of updating the article. The specific conditions written on your visa are the final basis.

Regulations may change according to immigration policy, please follow the official page of your country of study. The post-graduation work roadmap is presented in the article post-graduation jobs abroad.

Salary and employee benefits

International students are entitled to the minimum wage and benefits like other workers. A few examples:

• Australia: The Fair Work Ombudsman affirms that visa holders and international students have the same workplace rights as all workers in Australia. The national minimum wage is adjusted annually from July 1; Many industries have higher "award" salaries, and seasonal workers receive additional allowances.
• UK: according to GOV.UK, the National Living Wage salary for people aged 21 and up is 12.71 GBP/hour, for people 18–20 years old is 10.85 GBP/hour (applicable from April 1, 2026).
• Canada: minimum wage is regulated by each province.
• US: has a federal minimum wage and many states and cities set higher levels.

Part-time income may require tax declaration. Please register for a tax code (TFN in Australia, SIN in Canada, National Insurance in the UK, SSN in the US when eligible) properly.

What about being underpaid?

According to the Fair Work Ombudsman, in Australia, employers do not have the power to cancel your visa – only the Department of Home Affairs has the authority; International students can seek help for exploitation without having to worry about their visa being canceled if certain conditions are met. Many other countries also have agencies to protect workers' rights; Find out as soon as you start working.

Popular part-time jobs

• On campus: library, canteen, research assistants, teaching assistants, student ambassadors.
• Services: restaurants, cafes, supermarkets, retail.
• Tutors, tutors, interpreters.
• Paid internship, co-op linked to the curriculum – see Internship and co-op while studying abroad.

Preparing your CV and cover letter according to local standards will help you get a job faster - see Make a job application in English.

Legal notes to avoid losing your visa

1. Do not exceed the hour limit. If working in two places, the total hours must still be within the limit.
2. Do not accept "undocumented" cash salary jobs: both dangerous to exploitation and no proof of working hours.
3. Keep contracts, pay slips, time sheets.
4. Do not start working before the course starts (some countries specify this).
5. Maintain attendance and study results: working so much that failing a class can affect your visa status.
6. Be careful with "easy, high salary" job offers, especially asking to receive money transfer or open an account - may be fraud or money laundering. Read more international students and host country laws.

Balance between study and work

Do not count part-time income as your main financial source - all countries require proof of sufficient finances when applying for a visa because working hours are limited. The first months should focus on adapting and studying; Once you are stable, find a job that fits your school schedule. Planning your income and expenses helps you know how many hours you need to work - see Personal financial management for international students.

When planning to return home for vacation or change your work visa, VeDuHoc supports flexible ticket booking and price tracking for you - if a better price is found after you pay, HVSC will refund the difference. Reference ticket back home.

Frequently asked questions

Can international students work part-time right after arriving?

Depends on the country. Usually you can only do it once the course has started; In Japan, an operating permit is required in addition to the residence status; In the US, the first year mainly works in school.

Is it okay to work overtime a week?

Violation of visa conditions may result in visa cancellation or future application damage. Keep track of your work hours carefully.

Is the extra income enough to cover living expenses?

Usually only covers part of living expenses; not enough for tuition. Consider this an additional resource.

Can I freelance online for a company in Vietnam?

Regulations vary from country to country and may count as self-employment or employment; check with the international students office before accepting a job.

Working part-time legally helps you earn more income while keeping your visa and studies safe. Need advice on flight tickets for your vacation, contact VeDuHoc via hotline/Zalo 090.1800.918.

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