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Work in the UK

As an International Student, can I work in the UK?



Yes, as an International Student, you CAN work in the UK !

In fact, we chose a photo of a waiter for this page because many students work 'waiting tables' in the evenings after lectures!

We know that for International students , studying in the UK can be an expensive experience. Study fees , accommodation , food and drink , books and travel will add up to many thousands of pounds each year.

It is not surprising therefore to find that many students wish to take up employment during their stay here to replenish their funds.

International students in possession of a Student Visa (See the “Student Visas” page) can work up to 20 hours per week during term time.

However , students are not allowed to set up in business or work full time in a permanent job.

Students in possession of a Student Visitor Visa (See the Chapter on “Student Visa”) are NOT allowed to take any form of employment or set up in business.

If you or members of your family intend to work, you will need a National Insurance (NI) number. You can read about how get one by following the link below:



Click here to find out how to get a National Insurance Number

Working in the UK at the end of your Course

Many international students coming to study in the UK have ambitions to live and work in the UK at the end of their studies.

However, the UK government has very strict rules about those who can and cannot stay at the end of their course.

If you wish to do this, you are advised to study the guidelines carefully to ensure you choose a course that will give you the greatest chance to remain in the UK at the end of your studies.

For comprehensive information about working in the UK at the end of your course, follow the link below.

Click here for guidance on Student Work in the UK at the end of your studies

Students from the EEA (European Economic Area) & Swiss Nationals



All EEA & Swiss National are free to enter, live and work here in the UK without the need to apply for permission.

Click here to see the latest general information for EEA Nationals

Bulgaria and Rumania

However, if you are from a country that joined the EU (European Union) in 2004, you may need to register when you start work.

If you are from Bulgaria or Romania, you may need to apply for permission before you start work.

Information for Students from Bulgaria and Rumania

Students from Countries other than the EEA and Switzerland



International students who graduate from a UK university can apply to stay and work in the UK using the points based system.

You do not need to have a specific job offer , but you will need to pass a points based assessment.

You are advised to study the guidelines carefully to ensure you choose a course that will give you the greatest chance to work in the UK at the end of your studies.

Click here for information about working in the UK at the end of your studies

Got a Job Offer from a UK Employer ?

If you have a job offer from a UK employer who is prepared to sponsor you, you can apply for permission to work in the UK.

Click here to find out more about your rights if you have a Job Offer from a UK Employer

Other ways to work in the UK while you study



Young people from the USA can apply for a “Work in Britain Blue Card”.

For more information about the 'Blue Card' click here

For other methods of legally working in the UK, click here

Got permission to work? Here's how to find work in the UK



Now that you've (hopefully) established that you have permission to work here in the UK, the next step is to find a job!

The chances are that without previous work experience, you will probably be paid the UK National Minimum Wage.

For more information about finding a job in the UK while you study, and what you can expect to be paid, visit our 'Find a Job' page.

Click here to discover how to Find a Job and more about the National Minimum Wage


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