How Many Hours Can International Students Work?

If you’re from Bangladesh and planning to study abroad, one of your first big questions is probably: How many hours can I legally work while studying? Part-time work isn’t just about extra cash; it helps you gain experience, meet new people, and manage your living costs.

But rules vary widely between countries and even by visa type, level of study, and whether it’s term time or vacation. Let’s break it all down clearly.

Here are some key figures to know:

• In the UK, most full-time international students on the Student Route visa can work up to 20 hours per week during term time; some non-degree or preparatory courses are restricted to 10 hours/week.

• A survey of over 10,000 UK undergraduates by the Higher Education Policy Institute in 2024 found 56% had paid jobs during term time, with an average of 14.5 work-hours per week over term time.

• In Australia, from 1 July 2023, the law reinstated that student visa holders may work up to 48 hours per fortnight (i.e., an average of 24/week) while their course is in session, with unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks.

• According to the Reserve Bank of Australia, in 2024, many international students actually worked close to the legal maximum: estimates show average working hours for this group are around three-quarters of those of an average working-age Australian resident.

Quick Comparison at a Glance

Country-by-Country Breakdown

🇬🇧 United Kingdom (UK)

• Limit: 20 hours per week during term if you are a full-time degree student, 10 hours for pre-sessional or foundation courses. 
• Vacation: Full-time work allowed during official university holidays. 
• Visa: Applies to the Student Route visa. 
• Tip: Keep payslips, as the Home Office checks if you stay within the limit.
  

🇦🇺 Australia

• Limit: 48 hours per fortnight (≈ 24 hours per week). 
• Vacation: Full-time during semester breaks. 
• Visa: Applies to Subclass 500 Student visa holders. 
• Update: Rule reintroduced in July 2023 after COVID suspension.
  

🇩🇰 Denmark

• Limit: 90 hours per month during the study period (new rule July 2024). 
• Vacation: Full-time in June, July, and August. 
• Tip: Hourly pay is strong (DKK 100–130/hour), so even part-time work helps with rent.
  

🇸🇪 Sweden

• Limit: No legal cap, but you must pass your courses. 
• Reality Check: Most students still work 15–20 hours per week to keep a study-life balance.
  

🇲🇾 Malaysia

• Limit: 20 hours per week, but usually only during semester breaks of 7+ days. 
• Requirement: You must apply for permission before starting work.
  

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I work full-time during holidays?

Yes, except in Malaysia (where you can work only during official breaks and with permission). The UK, Australia, and Denmark allow full-time work during official breaks, while Sweden has no hour cap at all.

2. What happens if I exceed my work hours?

You risk visa cancellation, fines, or deportation. Countries like the UK and Australia monitor hours through tax data, so don’t take chances with cash-in-hand jobs.

3. Do internships count toward my work hours?

• UK: Not if they’re officially part of your course. 
• Australia: Count if paid. 
• Denmark/Sweden/Malaysia: Usually counted unless unpaid or mandatory.
  

4. Do I need a special permit?

• UK/Australia/Denmark/Sweden: No extra permit, your visa covers it. 
• Malaysia: Yes, you must apply before starting work. 

5. What jobs are popular among Bangladeshi students?

Retail, restaurants, warehouses, call centres, delivery driving (if allowed), and online freelancing. Many start with flexible hospitality jobs to fit around classes.

Compliance Tips

• Track your hours weekly: Use a simple spreadsheet or phone app so you never cross the limit. 
• Keep payslips & schedules: In case immigration or employer audits you. 
• Avoid cash-in-hand jobs: These may not be reported, but if caught, you are liable, not your employer. 
• Plan your budget: Don’t rely entirely on part-time work for tuition; it’s meant to supplement, not replace, your funds. 
• Prioritise studies: Your degree is the reason you’re abroad. Failing courses could lead to visa issues even if you stayed within work limits.
  

Average Part-Time Earnings

Final Word for Bangladeshi Students

Working part-time while studying abroad is an amazing opportunity, but only if you stay within the rules. The UK, Australia, Denmark, Sweden, and Malaysia all have slightly different limits, but the goal is the same: to let you earn experience and pocket money without harming your education.

So, research your visa rules carefully, plan ahead, and keep a healthy work-study balance. That way, you’ll graduate with a degree, not immigration trouble.