International students in the UK are permitted to work part-time while studying but there are a few restrictions as well. Learn more about visa regulations, opportunities to work part time and full time employment opportunities after you complete your graduation.
Visa regulations
Student visa holders are permitted to work part time for a maximum duration of 20 hours per week during their study programme. If the course you’re pursuing is below degree level, in that case, you are permitted to work only for 10 hours per week. Such hours will include both paid and unpaid work.
Working more than permitted hours
International students working for more than the acceptable hours in the UK may have to face severe outcomes, including deportation and revocation of their visas. Employers who violate such regulations may also have to face severe penalties.
Part time work opportunities
A part time work programme paves the way for international students to obtain work experience, advance their English skills as well as earn some money. Prominent jobs for international students cover retail, hospitality, tuition and customer service. Universities time and again offer international students on-campus jobs in libraries or student unions.
Full time work opportunities after graduation
After completing their graduation, international students with a Tier 4 student visa are permitted to apply for a graduate visa that enables them to work full time (generally 37.5 to 40 hours per week) for two years after their graduation. This visa allows them to work for almost all kinds of jobs, including even self-employment.
Industries hiring international graduates
A lot of industries in the UK take the services of international graduates from several fields including finance, technology, healthcare, education and hospitality. Employers value the knowledge and skills that international students bring along.
Finding a job
Networking with others, attending career fairs and joining several online job platforms are some of the best ways for graduates to successfully land full-time jobs in the UK.