A Part-Time Student Worker is an international student who has a legal permit to work along with while pursuing their education while holding a valid study visa or permit.

A student can usually opt for two types of work:

1) On campus work (on the university grounds or institutions affiliated with it)

2) Off-campus work (at places outside the university)

On average, a student can work up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during vacations in countries like the UK, the USA, Canada, Australia and European nations.

Note: This limit may vary based on the country, course level and institution.

1) Minimum Wages and Equal Pay Rights

As a part-time student worker, you must receive at least the national or regional minimum wage. Some countries or cities also follow the living wage standard to help you meet your living and accommodation expenses.

You must make sure that your pay is equal of a domestic student worker for the same work.

2) Contracts of Employment

A written contract of Employment, including all the essential details like wages, hours, job description, notice period, taxation details, etc., must be provided to you by the employer.

Please read this document carefully before signing.

3) Workplace Safety

As a worker, you have the right to a safe working environment. You can file complaints against any kind of discrimination or harassment you face.

4) Taxation Policy

Once your income passes a certain limit, it becomes taxable. Most of the employers directly deduct the income tax from your salary.

In some cases, students end up overpaying taxes if they work for only a part of the year. They can file for a tax return at the end of the year.

You must carefully keep records such as payslips and tax reforms.

5) Leave Policy

As a worker you are entitled to both sick as well as paid leaves. In case of exhaustion of these two, you can also apply for unpaid leaves.

You can also take rest breaks in between your shifts. And in case if you work overtime, you have the right to get paid for it.

• You shall put your concern in front of your employer or the HR department regarding any violation of the rights mentioned above.
• You can also seek support from various departments in your university such as career services or welfare teams.
• You can also approach labour departments or student unions in your host country to file your complaints.

1) Should I work part-time as a student?

Yes, you should work part-time as a student as it will help ease the financial burden on you.

2) What kind of work is available to a part-time worker?

As mentioned above, there are majorly two categories of work available:

a) On-Campus

b) Off-Campus

3) Is there any discrimination made between international and domestic student workers?

According to labour laws and employee rights, there shall be no discrimination made between an international and domestic student. There shall be equal pay for same work.

4) Can I reach to someone if I feel underpaid or discriminated against?

Yes, you can reach out to various authorities such as support centres in universities, labour departments and student unions.

5) Do I need to have a study visa to apply for part-time work as a student?

Yes, you must have a valid study permit or visa if you want to work as a student.