For many students around the world, studying abroad is not just about academic growth but also about gaining work experience, financial independence, and cultural exposure. Fortunately, several countries have created favorable policies that allow international students to study and work at the same time. In 2025, these dual-purpose destinations are more attractive than ever, offering a balanced opportunity to earn a degree while gaining real-world work experience.
This article explores the top countries where students can both study and work, outlining their visa regulations, work limits, benefits, and post-graduation options. If you're considering studying abroad and want to support yourself or gain practical experience, this guide is your perfect starting point.
Why Study and Work Abroad?
Combining work with study offers several important advantages:
-
Financial Support: Part-time jobs help cover living expenses, tuition gaps, or travel costs.
-
Professional Experience: Gain industry knowledge, build your resume, and enhance employability.
-
Cultural Integration: Working helps you connect with locals and better understand your host country.
-
Immigration Benefits: In some countries, work during or after study can lead to permanent residency.
Top Countries That Allow International Students to Work While Studying
1. Canada
Work During Study:
-
International students with a valid study permit can work up to 20 hours per week during the semester and full-time during scheduled breaks.
Post-Graduation:
-
Eligible graduates can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), valid for up to 3 years, depending on the length of the program.
Highlights:
-
High-paying part-time jobs (average $15–$20/hour)
-
Pathway to permanent residency through Express Entry and PNPs
-
Universities offer co-op (paid internship) programs
Popular Fields: Tech, business, hospitality, customer service, retail
2. Australia
Work During Study:
-
Students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight (two weeks) during study periods and unlimited hours during breaks.
Post-Graduation:
-
Graduates can apply for the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485), allowing them to stay and work for 2–5 years, depending on qualifications and location.
Highlights:
-
Minimum wage: AUD $23.23/hour (2025 update)
-
Strong demand in healthcare, agriculture, and IT
-
Family members (spouses) may also be granted work rights
Popular Fields: Retail, hospitality, aged care, tutoring, administrative roles
3. Germany
Work During Study:
-
Students can work 120 full days or 240 half days per year. On-campus student assistant jobs may be exempt from this limit.
Post-Graduation:
-
After graduation, students can apply for a 18-month residence permit to search for a job relevant to their field.
Highlights:
-
No tuition fees at most public universities
-
High demand for engineers, IT professionals, and researchers
-
Path to permanent residency after employment
Popular Fields: Engineering, tech support, research, warehouse operations
4. United Kingdom
Work During Study:
-
Students enrolled in full-time degree programs at a licensed sponsor institution can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks.
Post-Graduation:
-
The Graduate Route Visa allows students to work or look for work for up to 2 years (or 3 years for PhD graduates) after completing their degree.
Highlights:
-
Rich job market in finance, tech, healthcare
-
Potential to transition to Skilled Worker Visa
-
Opportunities for internships and placement years
Popular Fields: Retail, hospitality, education support, finance
5. New Zealand
Work During Study:
-
International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during vacations.
Post-Graduation:
-
Graduates of eligible qualifications can apply for a Post-Study Work Visa valid for up to 3 years.
Highlights:
-
Strong support for international students
-
Work rights extend to family members in many cases
-
Pathways to permanent residency for skilled workers
Popular Fields: Agriculture, IT, retail, hospitality, education
6. Ireland
Work During Study:
-
Students can work 20 hours per week during term and 40 hours per week during holidays.
Post-Graduation:
-
Graduates of recognized Irish institutions can apply for the Third Level Graduate Scheme, allowing them to stay and work for up to 2 years.
Highlights:
-
Rapidly growing tech and business sectors
-
English-speaking country with EU work access
-
Many multinational headquarters (Google, Facebook, etc.)
Popular Fields: Tech, business, logistics, hospitality
7. France
Work During Study:
-
International students can work 964 hours per year, equivalent to about 20 hours per week.
Post-Graduation:
-
Graduates with at least a master’s degree can apply for a temporary residence permit to stay and seek work.
Highlights:
-
Affordable tuition and housing support
-
Opportunities to intern with French and European companies
-
Part-time jobs in tourism, education, and research
Popular Fields: Tourism, language tutoring, tech, fashion
8. Sweden
Work During Study:
-
No official limit on working hours, as long as students maintain academic performance.
Post-Graduation:
-
After graduation, students can apply to stay for 1 year to look for work or start a business.
Highlights:
-
High quality of life and education
-
Growing startup and innovation ecosystem
-
English-taught programs widely available
Popular Fields: Engineering, AI, sustainability, design
9. Finland
Work During Study:
-
Students can work 30 hours per week under new 2025 rules (an increase from 25).
Post-Graduation:
-
Students can apply for a two-year residence permit to find work.
Highlights:
-
Innovative education system
-
Good quality of life and safety
-
Growing demand for IT, healthcare, and education professionals
Popular Fields: Tech, research, education, social services
10. Netherlands
Work During Study:
-
EU/EEA students can work freely. Non-EU students can work 16 hours per week or full-time during summer, with a work permit from their employer.
Post-Graduation:
-
Graduates can apply for the Orientation Year (Zoekjaar) Permit, which allows 12 months to search for a job.
Highlights:
-
English is widely spoken
-
High-quality, affordable education
-
Career opportunities in logistics, fintech, and health sciences
Popular Fields: Logistics, data analytics, agriculture, marketing
Tips for Managing Study and Work Abroad
-
Time Management Is Key
Balance work hours with your academic schedule to avoid burnout. -
Know Your Rights
Understand work-hour limits, contract terms, and tax regulations in your host country. -
Use Campus Resources
Career centers, international student offices, and professors can help you find suitable jobs. -
Focus on Industry-Related Roles
Whenever possible, choose jobs related to your field of study to gain relevant experience. -
Stay Legal
Violating visa rules can jeopardize your student status. Always stay within work limits and follow renewal processes.