Part Time Jobs in France for International Students in 2024

19 min read

Imagine waking up in the heart of France, surrounded by rich history, stunning architecture, and a culture that celebrates life’s finest pleasures. But as an international student or someone looking to supplement their income, you might face the challenge of balancing finances, academics, and personal life. It can feel overwhelming, right? That’s where part-time jobs in France come in as a perfect solution. 

Part-time employment in France accounts for 16.3% of total jobs as of December 2023. So, whether you’re studying in the bustling metropolis of Paris or residing in one of the picturesque provincial towns, there’s a wealth of part-time opportunities waiting for you. 

These jobs help you manage your expenses and provide a unique platform to enhance your skills, build your resume, and integrate into the French way of life. 

Ready to take the leap? Dive into the best part-time jobs in France for international students like you, explore how to find them, and learn tips for succeeding in your new role.

Key Highlights

Here’s a table to assist you in locating part-time employment in France. This checklist details essential elements such as leading job search platforms, reputable employers, and top salary prospects.

Feature	Details
Minimum Wage	Approx. INR 1k (EUR 11.65) per hour
Platforms to Search Part-time Jobs	Pole Emploi (government job portal)  Keljob (leading job board) RegionsJob (region-specific listings)
Top Industries Offering Part-Time Jobs	Retail (shops, supermarkets, malls) Hospitality (cafes, restaurants, bars, hotels)  IT and Tech Support
Hours Allowed for Part-time Work in France	Up to 964 hours per year (20 hours per week)
Highest Paying Part-Time Jobs	Tutoring/Teaching Assistant  Translator  IT Support Technician
Highest Average Salary for Part-Time Jobs	INR 7.13L (EUR 7.9k)

Also Read: Study in France for Indian Students. 

Significance of Part-time Jobs in France

In France, part-time jobs offer more than just financial support—they serve as a pathway to independence, valuable experience, and cultural integration. Currently, there are 2,50,000 international students in France, 10,000 of them from India. President Emmanuel Macron has committed to welcoming 30,000 Indian students by 2030. This initiative offers practical opportunities and rich cultural exchanges, integrating students into a dynamic educational environment.

From mastering the art of a Parisian café to making connections as sprightly as the Champs-Élysées, these roles offer more than just wages — they provide a platform to cultivate essential skills, enhance your resume, and embrace the essence of Parisian life. 

So forget the clichés of berets and baguettes because part-time jobs in France are a delectable introduction to a world brimming with possibilities! 

Here are some top benefits you can enjoy as an international student in France working part-time in addition to your paycheck. 

• Financial Support: A part-time job in France helps cover daily expenses like rent, groceries, and transportation. You can earn up to INR 2.7k (EUR 30) per hour just as a salesperson, making it easier to manage your finances while studying. 
• Gaining Work Experience: Valuable work experience enhances your resume and appeals to future employers. Whether you’re working in retail, hospitality, or an office, the skills you gain, such as time management, customer service, and teamwork, are highly adaptable and sought after in the job market.

• Networking Opportunities: Building connections through your job can be invaluable for career development. You may meet professionals like a Marketing Manager from L’Oréal or a Project Coordinator from TotalEnergies, who can offer advice, mentorship, or job opportunities in your field of study.
  
• Cultural Immersion: Working part-time offers a unique chance to interact with locals, understand French customs, and improve French-speaking skills. This cultural exchange enriches your experience and helps you feel more connected to your new environment.
  
• Building Soft Skills: Part-time jobs help develop communication, problem-solving, adaptability, and customer service skills. Employers highly value these soft skills, and practical experience can set you apart from other candidates.
  
• Balancing Studies and Work: Balancing work and studies teaches effective time management. Learning to prioritise tasks, meet deadlines, and maintain a work-life balance is a valuable life skill that will serve you well in any career.

Top 12 Highest Paying Part-time Jobs in France for International Students

Facing the Eiffel Tower with an empty wallet? Don’t sweat it! France offers a fantastic opportunity to combine your studies with lucrative part-time jobs in France for Indian students.  

With tuition fees ranging from INR 4L – 25L (EUR 5k – 30k)  for Bachelor’s programmes and INR 1.2L – INR 29L (EUR 1.5k – 35k) for Master’s programmes, a well-paying part-time job can be a game-changer.  

The demand for English tutors is high, especially in metropolitan areas like Paris, Lyon, and Marseille. Rates reach INR 1.8k to 2.4k (EUR 20-27) per hour. So, prepare to embrace work, learning, and living the French dream! 

Here’s a breakdown of the top 12 highest-paying part-time jobs you can consider in France. 

Part-time Job Role	Average Salary Per Hour
Retail Worker	INR 1.8k (EUR 20)
Babysitter	INR 1.4k (EUR 15)
English Translator	INR 1.8k (EUR 20)
Blogger	INR 1k (EUR 11.65)
Tour Guide	INR 2.3k (EUR 25)
Private Tutor	INR 1.8k (EUR 20)
Dog Walker	INR 1k (EUR 11.65)
Salesman	INR 2.7k (EUR 30)
Bartender	INR 1.8k (EUR 20)
Cafe Worker	INR 1k (EUR 11.65)
IT Support Technician	INR 1.8k (EUR 20)
Teaching Assistant	INR 1.9k (EUR 21)

Please Note: Hourly rates provided are approximate and subject to variation based on factors such as experience, qualifications, and employer specifics.

Skills Required for Part-Time Jobs in France for Indian Students

Every job, no matter part-time, requires some skills. Here is a list of skills you’ll need for all the twelve job roles listed in the aforementioned section. Have a look.  

1. Retail Worker

Part-time retail work in France involves customer service, sales, and inventory management. You need excellent communication skills to interact with customers, basic maths skills to handle transactions, and organisational skills to stock shelves and maintain store displays.

2. Babysitter

This role demands a high level of responsibility and patience. As a part-time babysitter in France, you need to be good at multitasking, as you’ll be managing children’s needs and schedules. First aid knowledge is a plus; having a warm, caring demeanour helps build trust with children and parents.

3. English Translator

This role requires fluency in English and French. You must also have strong attention to detail and excellent writing skills to ensure accurate translations. Cultural knowledge is also essential to convey the correct context and meaning. This is an excellent option for part-time jobs in Paris, France.

4. Blogger

As a blogger, you need creative writing skills and a good understanding of SEO to attract and retain readers. Research skills are crucial for creating engaging and informative content. Additionally, being social media savvy can help promote your blog posts, increasing your reach and building a loyal readership.

5. Tour Guide

This role requires excellent public speaking skills and an in-depth knowledge of local history and attractions. Customer service skills are essential for engaging with tourists. Being able to speak multiple languages is a significant advantage, especially for part-time jobs in France for international students.

6. Private Tutor

As a private tutor, you need to be proficient in your teaching subject. Patience and strong communication skills are essential for explaining concepts clearly. Adaptability is also vital for tailoring teaching methods to different learning styles.

7. Dog Walker

This job requires a genuine love for animals and physical stamina for long walks. You need reliability and the ability to manage multiple dogs if necessary. Basic first-aid knowledge for pets is also beneficial.

8. Salesman

Being a salesman requires persuasion skills and the ability to build relationships with customers. You need confidence and excellent communication skills to close sales. Knowledge of the product you are selling is crucial to answering customer queries effectively.

9. Bartender

This role demands excellent customer service skills and the ability to work under pressure. You must know how to mix and serve drinks, maintain a clean workspace, and handle cash transactions. 

10. Cafe Worker

Working in a cafe involves customer service and food preparation. You must multi-task effectively during busy periods and have a friendly demeanour to interact with customers. Basic barista skills can also be helpful.

11. IT Support Technician

This role requires technical knowledge of IT systems and problem-solving skills. You must be able to troubleshoot issues effectively and provide excellent customer support. Patience and the ability to explain technical concepts in simple terms are also crucial.

12. Teaching Assistant

As a teaching assistant, you need organisational skills to manage classroom activities and communication skills to assist the teacher and students. Patience and adaptability are essential for supporting diverse student needs. This is a popular choice for part-time jobs in France for Indian students.

Top Industries Offering Part-Time Work in France

France offers a plethora of part-time job opportunities across various industries, making it an ideal destination for you to earn an extra income. These part-time jobs aren’t just a way to pay for croissants and metro tickets — they’re stepping stones to a fulfilling career post-graduation. 

The employment rate in France is 67%, with average monthly wages amounting to INR 2.6L (EUR 3.1k). Whether you’re searching for part-time jobs in Paris, France or other smaller French towns, you’ll find part-time jobs that support your finances and pave the way for future career opportunities post-education.

Check out the top industries where you can find rewarding part-time jobs, enhancing your experience and career prospects.

Industry	Top Hiring Companies
Retail	Carrefour Monoprix Decathlon
Hospitality	Accor Hotels Sodexo Elior Group
Tourism	Disneyland Paris Musée du Louvre Centre Pompidou
Administrative	SNCF La Poste Pôle Emploi
Education	Cours Legendre Acadomia Complétude
IT and Tech	Capgemini Atos Sopra Steria
Freelance	Upwork Fiverr Freelancer

Search Resources for Part-Time Jobs in France for International Students

With France’s visa success rate generally exceeding 80%, you have a solid foundation to pursue your educational and professional aspirations there.

When you search for part-time jobs in France, you’ll discover a wealth of resources designed to help you find the perfect one that fits your schedule and interests. 

From government job portals to specialised websites and local networking events, these resources will guide you through the process, ensuring you land a role that enhances your French adventure. 

Explore the best search tools and tips for part-time jobs in France. 

Search Tools for Part-Time Jobs in France	Tips
Pôle Emploi	Use advanced search filters for part-time jobs.
Keljob	Set up job alerts to stay updated on new listings.
RegionsJob	Focus on region-specific listings for local opportunities.
LinkedIn	Connect with professionals. Join groups.
Welcome to the Jungle	Read company reviews. Customise cover letters.

Guidelines for Part-Time Jobs in France for International Students

Juggling studies and part-time work isn’t just about making some extra euros. It’s about understanding the French bureaucracy without losing your mind. 

In France, international students with a valid residence permit (VLS-TS validated by OFII or a residence permit along with a visa) are allowed to work. You can engage in paid employment for up to 964 hours per year, 60% of the legally defined work year, without needing other prior administrative authorisation. 

Want to find out more such guidelines for part-time jobs in France? Read the sections below.

1. Types of Students Who Can Work

Securing a part-time job in France requires a valid student visa with work permissions. Check your visa conditions to ensure you know the allowed work hours. 

According to French immigration guidelines, only specific student categories, listed below, can work part-time jobs in the country.

1. Full-Time Students on a Student Visa: You have to be enrolled in a full-time course at a French university or institution. You can generally work part-time (up to 964 hours per year).
   
2. Students on a Post-Study Work Visa: Graduates with a post-study work visa can work full-time and gain relevant work experience in their field of study.
   
3. PhD and Master’s by Research Students: You can work full-time throughout the year, thanks to their visa conditions allowing unrestricted work hours due to the intensive nature of their research programs.

2. Tax Obligations for Part-Time Work in France

As an international student working part-time in France, you have specific tax obligations to fulfil. Earnings from part-time jobs are subject to income tax in France. However, many students may need more than the taxable income threshold. 

The income tax rates in France range from 0% on income up to IRN 9L (EUR 10.7k) to 45% on income over INR 1.44Cr ( EUR 168k). Taxes are withheld from your salary via payroll (pay-as-you-earn system). 

As a student employee, you must also pay social security contributions, which provide access to healthcare and other benefits. 

So you pay social charges on top of your salary. It’s important to distinguish between gross salary (before deductions) and net salary (what you take home after deducting taxes and social contributions). 

3. Employment Rights for Part-Time Work in France

Understanding your employment rights is essential when working part-time in France. These rights cover minimum wage, working hours, and workplace conditions to ensure fair treatment. Here are concise points to help you. 

• Part-time jobs in France typically allow you to work up to 24 hours per week, with flexibility based on agreements.
  
• With part-time jobs in France, you can earn at least INR 1k (EUR 11.65) per hour, equivalent to full-time wages for the same job.
  
• Entitled to pro-rata sick leave, maternity leave, and breaks.
  
• Guaranteed at least 11 hours of rest between shifts and 24 consecutive hours off weekly, typically on Sundays.

4. Health and Safety

As French labour laws protect an international student working part-time in France, your health and safety. Employers must provide a safe working environment and take measures to prevent workplace accidents and illnesses. This includes providing proper training, equipment, and supervision for your role.

If you sustain a work-related injury or illness, you are entitled to compensation through the French social security system. 

Your employer must report the incident to the authorities, and you will receive coverage for medical expenses and lost wages. However, it’s important to note that working illegally without proper documentation can make you ineligible for these protections and put you at risk of exploitation. 

Preparing to Apply for Part-Time Jobs in France

In France, the term “resume” is not commonly used; instead, it is referred to as a “CV” or “Curriculum Vitae”. French CVs typically should be at most 1-2 pages in length, emphasising the importance of keeping it concise. 

Are you wondering whether it is essential to make one? Here are some reasons why and how having a well-prepared CV tailored to part-time jobs in Paris, France’s market, is necessary.

• French employers prefer CVs that highlight your skills, experiences, and achievements succinctly. Adapting your CV to local standards can help you stand out from other applicants.
  
• Teamwork, communication, and problem-solving are highly valued soft skills in France. A well-crafted CV that underscores these abilities can significantly enhance your job prospects.
  
• A professionally formatted CV demonstrates your attention to detail and organisational skills, which employers in France highly regard.
  
• Customising your CV to reflect the job description shows that you have taken the time to understand the role and how your skills and experiences make you an ideal fit for the position.
  
• Using keywords from the job description in your CV can help you pass through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). This technique is particularly beneficial for securing part-time jobs in France for international students, where competition can be intense.
  
• If you are proficient in French, showcase your language skills prominently. For international students, demonstrating language proficiency can be critical in securing part-time work in France.

Interview Preparation for Securing Part-time Jobs in France

Did you know that lunch is considered a sacred ritual in French workplace culture? Employees typically get 1-1.5 hours for lunch, much longer than 30 minutes in other countries. Many companies provide subsidised canteens or coupons to be used at restaurants. 

Just as a good lunch break enhances productivity and well-being, a great interview opens doors to opportunities and career growth in culturally rich work environments. 

Here are some points to remember while preparing for part-time jobs in France.

1. Prepare Your CV and Online Presence

Craft a concise, 1-2 page CV. In France, including a professional photo on your CV is customary. Review and polish your social media profiles. LinkedIn and other platforms should present a professional image.

2. Research the Company and Role

Thoroughly research the company. Understand its values, current projects, and the specifics of the job description. Visit the company website, explore social media, and read relevant news articles to gather insights.

Prepare thoughtful questions like “Can you describe the team I would be working with?” or “How does this position contribute to the company’s short-term and long-term goals?”. Show your interest in the company and role by preparing questions for the interviewers.

3. Practise Your French Skills

Know the interview language. Confirm if the interview will be conducted in French or English.

Rehearse a few phrases in French to impress the panel. Example, Je suis passionné par le marketing digital et les stratégies de croissance (I am passionate about digital marketing and growth strategies). 

Practice with friends to familiarise yourself with interview formats and gain confidence.

4. Understand French Interview Etiquette

French interviews can be lengthy, so allocate sufficient time. Maintain formality while being prepared for inquiries beyond professional background.

Choose neutral colours for attire, whether for in-person or video interviews. If interviewing remotely, be mindful of time zone discrepancies.

5. Highlight Your Language Skills

Emphasise your language abilities as a significant advantage. Incorporate specialised industry vocabulary and expressions relevant to the role, like brand positioning and customer journey mapping. 

Recognise that minor mistakes are understandable as a non-native speaker.

How to Get a Student Visa in France for Part-time Jobs?

Did you know that French law requires employees to spend at least 11 consecutive hours away from work each day? This strong separation between professional and personal life is deeply ingrained in French workplace culture. 

Like adapting to these cultural nuances, getting a student visa is essential. It ensures you can legally study and live in France, immersing yourself in the rich French culture and education. 

Start by understanding the types of student visas available, tabulated below.

Type of Student Visa	Description
Short-stay student visa (Schengen visa)	Allows studying in France for up to 3 months Without a residence permit
Temporary long-stay visa (VLS-T)	For studying in France for 4-12 months Without validation
Long-stay student visa (VLS-TS)	For studying in France for over one year Acts as a residence permit Must be validated online

With that, it is time to note the student visa application procedure, ensuring you can embrace and enjoy France’s balanced lifestyle.

• Acceptance into a Program in a French University: A formal offer of admission and fulfilment of the university’s entry requirements are necessary.
  
• Identity Proof: A valid passport and passport-sized photos are required.
  
• Evidence of Monetary Funds: You must prove you have the financial means to sustain yourself in France. This includes covering annual tuition fees and living expenses, which are at least INR 55.6k (EUR 615) monthly. 

For an entire year, this totals approximately INR 6.5L (EUR 7.3k). 

• Health Requirements: Depending on your stay duration, you might require a medical examination or health insurance coverage. Health insurance costs vary, but on average, students should budget between INR 1.8k to 4k (EUR 20 to 50) per month.
  
• Character Check: If you are 17 or older, you must present a police certificate.

Student Visa Application Process

If you’re an Indian student planning to study in France, the journey starts with a visa application. Like preparing for your favourite cricket match or binge-watching a Bollywood marathon, getting your student visa involves several steps. 

Here’s how you can get started on your academic adventure in France! 

• Online Application Form: Register on the French visa application website, complete the application form, and upload the necessary documents.
  
• Pay the Application Fee: The fee is approximately INR 8.5k (EUR 99).
  
• Attend a Visa Interview: You may be required to attend a visa interview at the nearest French consulate or visa application centre.
  
• Await the Decision: Student visa processing times can vary. Typically, you can expect a decision within two to three weeks. Online status updates are available for your application.

Also Read: Study Visa in France. 

Conclusion

So, there you have it! Whether you’re balancing your time between lectures and café shifts or dreaming of guiding tourists through the charming streets of Paris, part-time jobs in France offer perfect financial support. 

With the legal allowance to work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year, you can comfortably manage your finances. The minimum wage for part-time work is approximately INR 1k (EUR 11.65) per hour, while higher-paying roles, such as a salesperson, can reach up to INR 2.7k (EUR 30) per hour. 

Working part-time helps you manage not just your expenses and but also makes you a part of the vibrant French life, much like how a thrilling Bollywood plot weaves its magic through song and dance. And remember, every challenge you face here is another exciting chapter in your adventure story.

Bon voyage! 

Also Read Top French Scholarships for Indian Students. 

Frequently Asked Questions