International Students & Working in the UK
Changes to immigration rules
UKCISA have produced guidance and information on the changes to immigration rules that came into effect on 6 April 2012:
You can also refer to the full statement of changes in immigration rules document on the UKBA website.
Can I work in the UK?
As a general rule: yes. Most international students on a course of 6 months or more with student immigration permission can work up to 20 hours a week in term time without having to apply for permission to work. In addition to this, unlimited hours can be worked during vacations and on some work placements without having to obtain any kind of work permit.
Spouses, civil partners and children of degree students on courses of 12 months or more are also considered to be able to work, unless they have a work prohibited or “No Work” stamp in their passport.
How will I know if I can work in the UK?
If you are able to work, the entry clearance on your student visa – or an immigration officer’s stamp - will state: “No recourse to public funds. Work (and any changes) must be authorised”, "Restricted work, p/t term time, f/t vacations", "Able to work as authorised by the Secretary of State" or "Restricted work in term-time". It may say something slightly different but you should be able to work unless it says “No Work” or “Work Prohibited”.
If you are unsure about your or your partner’s passport stamp, please take the passport to the jobshop@kent office or Kent Union’s Advice Service for guidance.
What are the restrictions/conditions?
As an international student from outside the EEA:
i) You are limited to working 20 hours in term time unless the work is a placement for a course that meets certain requirements or an agreed internship. Outside the academic term, you can take full-time temporary jobs.
ii) You cannot engage in business, self-employment, or provide services as a professional entertainer or sportsperson.
iii) You cannot pursue a career by filling a full-time permanent position.
Can I work an average of 20 hours per week across a number of weeks?
No. If you work more than 20 hours in any week in term-time (and you are not doing a work placement for your course or an internship) you are in breach of your immigration conditions.
Can I work full-time whilst I write my dissertation or thesis out of term time?
If you are still studying, even if you are not attending classes, this is not a vacation period for you. You should not work full-time until you have submitted your dissertation or thesis and finished your studies (unless you are doing a work placement).
What else do I need to be able to work?
If you are allowed to work in the UK, even though you do not need a work permit you will need a National Insurance number and may have to pay income tax on your earnings (just as a UK citizen does). See our pages on National Insurance and Income Tax for advice on these areas.
For further information on working in the UK, income tax and National Insurance contributions you may find any of the following government websites useful:
www.hmrc.gov.uk/cnr/
www.bia.homeoffice.gov.uk
www.educationuk.org
www.direct.gov.uk/studenttaxadvice
If you have any questions about this information or have a query about something not mentioned here, please contact a member of the jobshop@kent team for further guidance.
The information on this website is intended as a general guide, not an authoritative statement of the law.
Other Useful Contacts
Kent Union Advice Service, Mandela Building, University of Kent, Canterbury
Tel: 01227 824200 for an appointment
Tel: 01227 827724 for the advice line
E-mail: advice@kent.ac.uk
UKCISA (UK Council for International Student Affairs) Student Helpline
Tel: 020 7107 9922 (13.00-16.00, Mon-Friday)
www.ukcisa.org.uk
Immigration and Nationality Directorate, Lunar House, Wellesley Road, Croydon, Surrey, CR9 2BY
Tel. 0870 606 7766
www.homeoffice.gov.uk
Tax Enquiries:
Tel: 0845 3021431
www.direct.gov.uk/studenttaxadvice