Savanna Hoffman
International students in London often seek part-time employment to cover their living expenses and immerse themselves in British culture. London offers a wide range of part-time job opportunities, and understanding work visa restrictions is crucial before beginning the job hunt. International students' work eligibility depends on their visa status, and those with a Student visa are typically allowed to work part-time during their studies, with specific hourly limits. After completing their degrees, students may apply for graduate visas or seek immigration permission to work in the UK.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Work hours during term time | Depends on the type of visa and course of study. Tier 4/Student visa holders are allowed to work up to 10 hours per week during term time if the course of study is below degree level, and up to 20 hours per week if the course of study is at degree level or above. |
| Work hours during vacations | Allowed to work full-time during vacations. |
| Work hours after course completion | Allowed to work full-time for up to four months after course completion or until the visa expiry date, whichever is sooner. |
| Work placement/internship | Allowed to work full-time during a work placement or internship. |
| Volunteering | Volunteering is allowed and does not count towards the weekly working hours limit. |
| Work restrictions | Cannot set up your own business or be self-employed (freelance). Cannot be a professional sportsperson or entertainer. |
| Work eligibility | Depends on the visa status. Students on a Student visa for a part-time course do not have the right to undertake any paid or unpaid work, including internships and work placements. |
| Visa requirements | Must have a valid sponsor with a compliance track record. |
| Visa status for EEA/Swiss nationals | EEA or Swiss nationals with Pre-Settled or Settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme can work in the UK during and after their studies without any restrictions and do not need permission from UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). |
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What You'll Learn
Part-time work opportunities in London
London has more part-time work opportunities than anywhere else in the UK. If you are an international student, you can work part-time during your studies, provided you have a valid student visa. The number of hours you can work will depend on your visa status and level of study. For instance, if you are on a degree-level course, you can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during vacations. On the other hand, if your course is below degree level, you can work a maximum of 10 hours per week during term time and full-time during vacations.
It is important to note that if you hold a Student visa for a part-time course, you are not permitted to undertake any paid or unpaid work in the UK, including internships and work placements. Additionally, there are certain types of work that international students are not allowed to do, such as setting up their own business or being self-employed.
To find part-time work opportunities in London, you can start by checking with your university's careers service or employment team, as they can help you connect with relevant opportunities. Websites like UCAS and student job boards are also great resources for finding part-time and temporary roles. Volunteering is another option to consider, as it is a popular way to develop skills, network, and improve your chances of finding paid work. Remember to always check your visa conditions and work restrictions to ensure you are complying with the regulations.
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Visa requirements for international students
International students intending to work in London must adhere to specific visa requirements. The type of visa needed to work in the UK as an international student depends on several factors, including age, level of education, and nationality.
For instance, individuals aged 16 and above seeking to pursue further or higher education in the UK can apply for a Student visa. This visa typically allows part-time work for study abroad students or full-time university students with valid sponsors. Students under 18 who are sponsored by independent schools can work part-time after turning 16. Additionally, those undertaking internships or work placements remotely from outside the UK are exempt from the weekly 10 or 20-hour work limit.
If you are an EEA or Swiss national with status under the EU Settlement Scheme, you can work in the UK during and after your studies without restrictions. Your visa will specify the permitted working hours, and you must not work if it states "no work allowed" or "work prohibited."
It is important to note that the primary purpose of a Student visa is to facilitate studying in the UK rather than working. Therefore, students on an intensive program might not be allowed to work due to time constraints. Universities often have their own guidelines for student employment, with institutions like Cambridge University recommending a maximum of 10 working hours per week for undergraduates and no work during term time for postgraduates and research students.
To apply for a Student visa, individuals may need to provide proof of identity, parental consent (if under 18), and written consent from financial sponsors. Additionally, some courses and nationalities may require an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate. Visa applicants should also be mindful that violating visa conditions can impact their ability to re-enter the UK.
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Work placement and internship rules
As an international student, your eligibility to work in the UK depends on your visa status. If you hold a Tier 4/Student visa, you must adhere to the working restrictions attached to it. These conditions will be stated in your visa application decision letter.
If you are a non-European Union (EU) citizen and wish to undertake an internship in the UK, you will likely need to apply for a visa. Non-EU citizens will generally need to apply for the appropriate visa or permit to work or study in the UK, as per the existing regulations.
If you are an EEA or Swiss national who has been granted status under the EU Settlement Scheme, you can work in the UK during and after your studies without permission from UK Visas and Immigration. If your visa says “no work allowed” or “work prohibited”, you are not allowed to work.
If you are studying a full-time degree program and wish to undertake a work placement or internship that is not an assessed and integral part of your studies, you may do so part-time (up to 20 hours per week) during term time. If you wish to take a break from your studies to start a full-time work placement or internship, you will need to seek alternative immigration permission and another Student visa to return to your studies.
If your work placement is based outside of the UK, you will need to seek immigration permission from the country where you will work, unless it is your home country. If your placement is an assessed and integral part of your degree program, your Student visa will remain valid.
Additionally, if you are a Tier 4/Student visa holder undertaking a work placement or internship remotely from outside the UK, you are not limited to the weekly 10 or 20-hour maximum as you are not subject to Student visa work conditions.
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Work hour restrictions for international students
International students in London on a Tier 4/Student visa are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and can work full-time during academic breaks. However, it's important to note that the primary purpose of this visa is to allow you to study in the UK, not work. The work restrictions attached to this visa will be detailed in your visa application decision letter.
Students under 18 who are sponsored by independent schools can work part-time following their 16th birthday. Additionally, students on a full-time study visa who are above the age of 16 are permitted to work.
If you are physically outside the UK, Tier 4/Student visa work conditions do not apply. You need to check the work rights in the specific country where you are working. Any work done remotely for a non-UK employer counts toward your weekly maximum of 10 or 20 hours.
The UK government temporarily lifted the 20-hour cap during term time, providing more flexibility for students. However, it is important to prioritize your studies and maintain a healthy balance. To qualify for the waived limit, you must meet specific requirements, such as having a valid study permit and being enrolled full-time.
Your university may have its own rules regarding student work to prevent students from neglecting their studies. For example, Cambridge University recommends that undergraduate students work no more than 10 hours per week, while postgraduate and research students are advised not to work during term time.
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Volunteering and unpaid work
Volunteering is a great way for international students to get involved in the local community, meet people, and practice their English. It is also an excellent way to gain experience and build one's CV. International students on a Student Visa can volunteer while studying in London. However, if there is a limit on the number of hours they can work, they need to be aware of the UK Border Agency's definition of 'voluntary work', which is distinct from 'volunteering'. 'Voluntary work' is typically considered to involve a contract with an employer, specific working hours, and remuneration, whereas 'volunteering' does not.
There are many volunteer opportunities available in London, ranging from social work to environmental projects. Social work volunteers can find opportunities in shelters for the unhoused, senior citizen centres, or youth development organisations. Environmental projects may include nurturing habitats for animals, conducting wildlife surveys, monitoring species, or providing general maintenance for forest areas. Students can also volunteer at public libraries, galleries, museums, and retirement homes.
International students can also consider volunteering with organisations such as Volunteering England, UNICEF, BUNAC, or the British Red Cross. These organisations offer a range of programmes, including internships, teaching, sports coaching, community building, and emergency first aid.
It is important to note that while volunteering is generally unpaid, volunteers can sometimes receive scholarships or grants or expense payments to cover travel costs. Additionally, some volunteering programmes may charge a fee to cover accommodation, meals, and other expenses.
Overall, volunteering in London as an international student can provide a rewarding experience, allowing students to gain valuable skills and make a positive impact on the local community.
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Frequently asked questions
It depends on your visa status. If you have a Student visa, you can work part-time during your studies, but there are restrictions on the number of hours you can work and the type of work you can do.
If you're on a full-time course, you can work up to 20 hours per week during term-time and full-time during vacations. If you're on a part-time course, you cannot undertake any paid or unpaid work, including internships and work placements.
Yes, but only outside of term time or during officially agreed vacation periods. You can also work full-time for up to four months after your course ends or until your visa expiry date, whichever is sooner.
Yes, volunteering is a popular option for international students in the UK. It's a great way to develop skills, meet people, and improve your chances of getting paid work. Volunteering doesn't count towards your weekly working hours limit.
London has more part-time work opportunities than anywhere else in the UK. University career services, such as UCL Career Services, are a good place to start your search. You can also look for jobs online or contact your university's employability or careers team for help.
