International Student Jobs in the UK: What You Can Do, Where to Look, and How to Stay Legal

When you’re an international student, a person from outside the UK studying at a UK university under a student visa. Also known as overseas student, it means you’re here to learn—but most of you also need to earn. Working while studying isn’t optional for many. Rent, groceries, and textbooks don’t pay themselves. But here’s the thing: your visa isn’t a work permit. It’s a study permit with conditions. Break those rules, and you risk losing your right to stay. That’s why knowing what international student jobs are allowed—and which ones aren’t—isn’t just helpful. It’s essential.

You can work up to 20 hours a week during term time if you’re on a Student visa (formerly Tier 4). That’s not a suggestion. It’s a rule enforced by the Home Office. During holidays, you can work full-time. But not every job counts. You can’t be self-employed, run a business, or work as a professional athlete or entertainer. You also can’t take a permanent full-time job. That means no permanent roles in retail, hospitality, or admin unless it’s clearly temporary and fits your visa terms. Your university’s careers service often lists approved employers and roles that are safe to apply for. Many international students find work on campus—library assistant, lab helper, event steward. These are reliable because the employer already knows your visa status and handles the paperwork right.

Off-campus jobs are common too. Cafes, supermarkets, and warehouses hire students because they need flexible staff. But don’t fall for scams. If a job offers £15/hour in cash with no contract, it’s probably illegal—and you’re at risk. Always get a contract. Always get paid through the bank. Always check your payslip. If you’re unsure, ask your university’s international student support team. They’ve seen it all. They know which employers play fair and which ones don’t. And yes, you can work remotely for a company back home—as long as it doesn’t violate your visa conditions. Some students tutor online, translate documents, or do freelance design. Those can be great options if you manage your time well.

There’s also a big difference between what you’re allowed to do now and what you can do after graduation. If you finish your degree and want to stay, the Graduate visa lets you work for two years (or three for PhD grads). That’s a whole different ballgame. But until then, stick to the rules. The stress of getting caught isn’t worth the extra cash. And don’t forget: your studies come first. Working too much can tank your grades, and failing a module could mean losing your visa anyway.

Below, you’ll find real guides from students who’ve been there—how they found their first job, how they balanced work and lectures, what documents they needed, and how they avoided common mistakes. No theory. No fluff. Just what actually works.