5 Countries Allowing Students to Work Full-Time During Holidays

Studying abroad not only opens doors to world-class education but also gives students the chance to gain work experience and earn extra income. For many international students, balancing studies and part-time work can be tough during the academic year. Thankfully, several countries allow students to work full-time during official holidays or school breaks, offering the perfect opportunity to save money, build experience, and explore life beyond campus.

If you’re planning to study abroad soon, here are five popular countries where students are legally permitted to work full-time during their holiday breaks, plus a quick look at the rules in each destination.

1. Canada

In Canada, international students with a valid study permit and enrolled full-time in a designated learning institution (DLI) can work unlimited hours during scheduled academic breaks such as summer or winter holidays.

During the school term, students are usually limited to part-time hours (check current limits on IRCC’s website), but once classes pause, you’re free to work full-time.

Keep your academic calendar handy to prove your break dates to employers and immigration officers if needed.

2. United Kingdom

The UK also gives student visa holders flexibility during holidays. Most international students are allowed to work full-time outside term time if their visa includes work permission. During term time, the limit is usually 20 hours per week for degree-level courses and 10 hours for foundation or below.

However, during official university breaks, you can work full-time (ideal for internships or seasonal jobs).

Always confirm your official term dates through your school’s registry before committing to any job.

3. Australia

Australia is another excellent study destination that allows students to work unlimited hours during official course breaks. During the semester, the cap is typically 48 hours per fortnight, but that restriction disappears once classes are over.

This rule gives students a fair chance to earn and gain local work experience without breaching visa conditions.

Ensure your “course not in session” dates match your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Working beyond the allowed limit during term time can affect your visa status.

4. Germany

International students in Germany can work full-time during semester breaks. Outside of holidays, the law allows up to 140 full days or 280 half days of work each year.Semester breaks are considered “lecture-free” periods, so you’re free to take on full-time work without worrying about the weekly 20-hour limit.

Keep a record of your workdays and consult your local Foreigners’ Office (Ausländerbehörde) if you’re unsure about your limit or status.

5. United States

For students on an F-1 visa, the U.S. allows full-time on-campus work during official vacations. During the semester, you’re limited to 20 hours per week on campus, but you can work full-time when school is out.

Off-campus full-time work, however, usually requires special authorisation through programmes like CPT or OPT.

Get written confirmation from your school’s Designated School Official (DSO) before starting any job during holidays.

Conclusion

Working full-time during school holidays is a great way for international students to earn, gain real-world experience, and explore more of their host country.

Each destination has its own rules, and staying compliant with visa conditions is crucial, but if you plan wisely, your holidays abroad can be both productive and rewarding.

Before accepting a full-time position, always check your visa type, confirm your school’s official break dates, and consult your international office for guidance. With the right preparation, you can make the most of your study journey, both academically and financially.