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Can international students do part-time jobs abroad to cover living expenses in UK/Ireland?

08 Jul 2026 · Answered by Chaithrakala P L · 1 min read
Chaithrakala P L
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Yes, international students can work part-time while studying to help with living expenses, but rules depend on the country.

- UK: On a Student visa, you can work up to 20 hours/week during term and full-time during official breaks. Self-employment and freelance work are not allowed.
- Ireland: With a valid Stamp 2 visa, you can work up to 20 hours/week during term and 40 hours/week during holidays (June - Sept, 15 Dec - 15 Jan). Your course must be on the government’s approved list.

Work hours and permitted job types are subject to change. Part-time earnings usually help with living costs but won’t cover full tuition.

If you need guidance on finding part-time work, contact your LeapScholar counsellor.

More expert answers

Chaithrakala P L
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Yes, you can manage living expenses by working part-time while studying in the UK or Ireland. Both countries allow international students to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays, subject to visa conditions (these rules are subject to change).

- UK: Typical part-time jobs pay around £12.21/hour, so working 20 hours/week could earn you about £1,056/month.
- Ireland: Hourly wages usually range from €11 - 16; at €13/hour for 20 hours/week, you could earn about €1,040/month.

Part-time work can help with living costs but usually won't cover tuition fees. Make sure to follow all visa work restrictions. If you need more guidance, contact your LeapScholar counsellor.

Geetha Muthu
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Yes, you can work part-time in the UK as an international student to help with expenses. On a Student visa, you may work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during official university holidays (subject to change).

- Minimum wage: £12.21/hour (age 21+), living wage: £12.60/hour (age 23+)
- Potential earnings: Up to £1,056/month before tax if working 20 hours/week at minimum wage
- Typical expenses: £1,300 - £1,400/month in London, £900 - £1,300/month elsewhere (subject to change)

Part-time work can supplement your income, but may not cover all living costs. Prioritize your studies and consider on-campus roles for flexibility.

If you need help finding suitable part-time opportunities, contact your LeapScholar counsellor.

Pallavi Attri
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Yes, as an international student in Ireland with a valid Stamp 2 student visa, you can work part-time while studying.

- 20 hours/week during academic terms
- 40 hours/week during official holiday periods (June 1 - September 30 and December 15 - January 15)

You must obtain a Personal Public Service (PPS) number to work legally. Part-time work can help with living expenses but typically won't cover your tuition fees, so plan your finances accordingly.

Vandna Rani
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Yes, you can offset some living expenses by working part-time while studying abroad, but part-time earnings typically won't cover all costs, especially tuition.

- Canada: International students can work up to 24 hours/week during classes and full-time during breaks. Common jobs include retail, food service, and tutoring. Minimum wage varies by province (e.g., CAD 17.60/hour in Ontario).
- UK: You can work up to 20 hours/week during term and full-time in vacations. Jobs are available in hospitality, retail, and administration. Minimum wage for ages 23+ is £10.42/hour.

Visa work limits and local wage rates are subject to change. Part-time work helps with daily expenses but is not enough for tuition or major costs. For a full financial plan, discuss your options with your LeapScholar counsellor.

Bhuvaneswari Gobinathan
Bhuvaneswari Gobinathan Verified
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Most international students manage living expenses by working part-time during their studies, within the limits set by each country.

- UK: You can work up to 20 hours/week during term and full-time during vacations on a Student visa. Some job types are restricted.
- Ireland: With Stamp 2 permission, you can work up to 20 hours/week in term and 40 hours/week during holidays (June - Sept, mid-Dec - mid-Jan).
- France: Allowed up to 964 hours/year (about 18.5 hours/week on average).

Balancing work and studies is important - overworking can impact your academics. Hourly pay and job types vary by country and role. Always follow the local work regulations to maintain your student status.

If you need help finding part-time work or managing your schedule, your LeapScholar counsellor can guide you.

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