Are there any restrictions on part-time work hours for students in Ireland or the UK?

You are allowed to work part-time in the UK on a Student visa. If you enrol in a full-time degree-level course, you can work up to 20 hours per week during term time. During official university vacation periods, you may work full-time. If you take a course below degree level, such as a foundation course, the work limit is 10 hours per week. You can take up paid jobs, unpaid or voluntary work, and work placements that are part of your course, but self-employment, running a business, or working as a professional sportsperson or entertainer is not permitted. Make sure you always check your visa to confirm your specific work rights and do not exceed the permitted hours, as this can have serious visa consequences. For further guidance, please connect with your LeapScholar counsellor.

Part-time work is allowed for international students, but rules vary by country and are subject to change.

- UK: Up to 20 hours/week during term; full-time in holidays. No self-employment or freelance work.
- USA: Up to 20 hours/week on-campus during academic sessions; full-time during breaks. Off-campus work (like CPT/OPT) is possible after one academic year.
- Canada: Up to 24 hours/week off-campus during academic terms; full-time during breaks. Co-op work permit no longer required for eligible students from 1 Apr 2026.
- Ireland: Up to 20 hours/week during term; full-time in holidays. Only for students in approved courses.

Always follow your host country's current rules to maintain your visa status. For details specific to your situation, connect with your LeapScholar counsellor.