How do the work-hour limits for students in Australia, USA, UK, Canada and New Zealand compare for me?
Australia allows up to 48 hours per fortnight during study, the USA up to 20 hours per week on campus, the UK up to 20 hours per week in term time, Canada up to 24 hours per week, and New Zealand up to 25 hours per week.
Australia allows up to 48 hours per fortnight during study, while the USA and UK are around 20 hours per week, Canada is up to 24 hours per week and New Zealand is up to 25 hours per week. Holiday rules differ, so compare both columns before choosing a destination.
Work rights during study and holidays
| Country | Work hours during study | Work during holidays |
|---|---|---|
| Australia | Up to 48 hours per fortnight | Unlimited hours during official course breaks |
| USA | Up to 20 hours per week (on-campus employment) | Up to 40 hours per week during official breaks |
| UK | Up to 20 hours per week during term time | Full-time during official vacation periods |
| Canada | Up to 24 hours per week | Unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, if eligible |
| New Zealand | Up to 25 hours per week during study periods | Full-time during approved holiday periods, if eligible |
How to read the comparison
- Australia counts hours per fortnight rather than per week, so the weekly pattern is flexible.
- The USA figure refers to on-campus employment.
- Canada and New Zealand holiday work applies only if you are eligible.
My Advice
Use this table as a starting point and confirm current rules on each government's official immigration page, because work limits can change over time. Do not rely on part-time income to cover your main costs.
This information is available on: immigration.govt.nz
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