Working while you study helps cover expenses, practise the language and gain local experience. But each country has its own rules, and breaking them can cost you your visa. This is the picture at the time of publishing.
Australia
- During term you can work a limited number of hours per fortnight (48 hours under the rule in place since 2023; the government has announced a review of this cap).
- There is no limit during your institution's official breaks.
- You need a Tax File Number (TFN) to work and pay tax correctly.
Canada
- Off campus you can work up to 24 hours per week during the semester, and full time during scheduled breaks.
- This only applies if you study full time in an eligible program at a designated learning institution (DLI). Language-only courses don't allow you to work.
- You need a Social Insurance Number (SIN).
New Zealand
- Student visas granted from 3 November 2025 allow up to 25 hours per week; if your visa is older, you can apply for a variation to get the extra hours.
- Full time during scheduled breaks.
- You need an IRD number to work.
Tips to land your first job
- Adapt your CV to the local format: one or two pages, no photo or personal details.
- The sectors with the most openings for students are hospitality, retail, cleaning and childcare.
- Use your institution's job board and sites such as LinkedIn and Seek (Australia and New Zealand) or Indeed (Canada).
Rules change often: always confirm your visa conditions on each country's official immigration website.