Can I work part-time while studying in Ireland or UK?
Yes, you can work part-time while studying in both Ireland and the United Kingdom. Non-EU students in Ireland on a Stamp 2 visa can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and up to 40 hours per week during official holiday periods. Similarly, international students on a.
Balancing a part-time job with your studies is a great way to gain professional experience and support your living costs abroad. If you are planning your education for 2026 or 2027, understanding your specific visa permissions will help you stay compliant.
Part-Time Work Limits in Ireland and UK
| Country and Visa Type | Term Time Limit | Holiday Period Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Ireland Stamp 2 Visa | Up to 20 hours per week | Up to 40 hours per week |
| UK Student Visa Degree Level | Up to 20 hours per week | Full-time during vacations |
| UK Student Visa Below Degree | Up to 10 hours per week | Full-time during vacations |
Important Workplace Rules and Requirements
- You must prove financial self-sufficiency before arriving, as part-time earnings are only meant to supplement your living costs.
- Student workers in both countries are subject to income tax and must obtain local identification numbers like a PPS number or National Insurance number.
- UK student visa holders are strictly prohibited from being self-employed, freelance, setting up a business, or working as a professional sportsperson.
My Advice
Always verify your exact visa stamp or digital eVisa status before accepting any employment offers. Check with your university registry to confirm official term and vacation dates to ensure you never exceed your permitted hours.
More expert answers
Yes, you can work part-time while studying abroad, but the rules depend on the country:
- New Zealand: Up to 25 hours/week during term, full-time during breaks. No work-hour limits for PhD or master's by research students.
- UK: Up to 20 hours/week during term, full-time during holidays. Some jobs (self-employment, sports, entertainment) are not allowed.
- Sweden: No specific limit on work hours for international students.
Work rights are subject to change and may depend on your visa and course type. For details on your situation, connect with your LeapScholar counsellor.
Yes, you can generally work part-time while studying abroad, but the rules depend on the country.
- UK: Up to 20 hours/week during term if enrolled full-time; full-time during official holidays. Self-employment and certain roles (like professional sportsperson) are not allowed. - Ireland: Up to 20 hours/week during term for eligible full-time courses (minimum one year); full-time during holidays. Not all courses allow work rights. - UAE: Part-time work is usually not permitted. Some unpaid internships may be allowed during holidays with prior approval. - USA: Up to 20 hours/week on-campus during term; full-time on-campus during holidays. Off-campus work requires special authorization (CPT or OPT).
Work rules and visa conditions are subject to change. Always follow your visa and university guidelines.
Yes, international students can work part-time during their studies in both Ireland and the UK, with specific rules:
Ireland:
- Up to 20 hours/week during term time with a valid Stamp 2 visa. - Up to 40 hours/week during holidays (June 1 - Sept 30, Dec 15 - Jan 15). - Must have a Personal Public Service (PPS) number. - Course must be on the approved list.
UK:
- Up to 20 hours/week during term time for full-time degree students. - Full-time work allowed during official university vacations. - Self-employment and certain jobs are not permitted. - Student visa must state work permission.
These rules are subject to change and must be followed to maintain your visa status.
Canada, the UK, Australia, Germany, and Ireland are all strong options for studying and working part-time as an international student.
- Canada: Work up to 20 hours/week during classes; strong post-study work visa (up to 3 years); high demand in IT, healthcare, and engineering.
- UK: Work up to 20 hours/week; 2-year post-study Graduate Route visa; good opportunities in finance, healthcare, and creative fields.
- Australia: Work up to 40 hours/fortnight; 2-4 year post-study work visa; strong job market in healthcare and IT.
- Germany: Work 120 full or 240 half days/year; 18-month job-seeker visa after graduation; high demand in engineering and IT.
- Ireland: Work up to 20 hours/week, full-time during holidays; up to 2 years post-study work option; opportunities in IT, pharma, and finance.
Your best choice depends on your career goals and preferred sectors.
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