A country-wise breakdown of work rules, wages, and tips for students
Studying in Europe doesn’t just offer high-quality education—it also gives international students the opportunity to work part-time during their studies. Part-time jobs help cover living expenses, improve language skills, and add real-world experience to your CV.
But rules vary by country. Some allow only 10 hours per week, others permit up to 40. This blog provides a detailed, country-by-country guide to part-time work rights for international students in Europe, especially for those from Pakistan, India, Africa, and other non-EU countries.
Why Work Part-Time While Studying in Europe?
- Earn money to support daily expenses
- Reduce dependency on family
- Gain European work experience
- Improve your language and communication skills
- Build connections for future full-time roles
General Requirements to Work as a Student
Before applying for a job, make sure:
- Your student residence permit or visa allows work
- You register with local authorities (city hall/immigration office)
- You follow maximum allowed working hours
- You have a valid contract or agreement
Country-Wise Guide to Part-Time Jobs in Europe for Students
1. Germany
- Allowed hours: 120 full days or 240 half-days per year
- Average wage: €10–€15/hour
- Common jobs: Restaurants, supermarkets, university labs, delivery
- Tax info: Earnings above €520/month are taxable
2. Romania
- Allowed hours: 20 hours per week
- Average wage: €3–€5/hour
- Common jobs: Call centers, cafes, internships, IT
- Note: Students must apply for a work permit, but many employers accept students with valid TRC (Temporary Residence Card)
3. Poland
- Allowed hours: 20 hours per week during studies, full-time in holidays
- Average wage: €3–€6/hour
- Common jobs: Retail, warehouse, hospitality, tech support
- Bonus: No separate work permit needed for students with a residence card
4. France
- Allowed hours: 964 hours/year (around 20 hrs/week)
- Average wage: €11.65/hour (minimum wage)
- Common jobs: Campus jobs, cafes, libraries, babysitting
- Tip: Most jobs require French language basics
5. Italy
- Allowed hours: 20 hours per week, max 1,040 per year
- Average wage: €7–€12/hour
- Jobs: Hotels, shops, restaurants, delivery
- Visa Tip: Part-time income cannot replace financial proof
6. Hungary
- Allowed hours: 30 hours per week
- Average wage: €3–€6/hour
- Common jobs: Fast food, IT, media work
- Note: Must apply for a work permit as part of residence status
7. Ireland
- Allowed hours: 20 hrs/week during semester, 40 hrs during holidays
- Average wage: €11–€15/hour
- Common jobs: Warehouses, cafes, retail, campus services
- Bonus: Strong work rights for international students
8. Netherlands
- Allowed hours: 16 hrs/week or full-time in June–August
- Wage: €10–€15/hour (age-based)
- Permit: Employer must apply for a work permit
- Tip: University students prefer internships or on-campus jobs
9. Finland
- Allowed hours: 30 hours per week
- Average wage: €9–€14/hour
- Jobs: Cleaning, hospitality, delivery, warehouse
- Note: Easier for those with Finnish language skills
10. Sweden
- Allowed hours: No legal limit, but studies must come first
- Wage: €10–€15/hour
- Jobs: Cafes, restaurants, delivery, internships
- Pro tip: On-campus jobs are limited, so apply early
Tips for Finding a Part-Time Job in Europe
- University career centers often list jobs
- Use portals like EURES, LinkedIn, Indeed, ErasmusIntern
- Prepare a local-style CV and cover letter
- Learn the basic language of your host country
- Apply early in the semester
- Join Facebook groups or WhatsApp communities for job updates
Legal & Practical Considerations
- Always sign a legal employment contract
- Keep records of work hours and payments
- Ensure your job does not conflict with class timings
- Avoid working cash-in-hand or illegally—it can affect your visa status
- Understand the tax rules—some countries deduct small student tax; others require tax registration after a limit
How Edworkers Can Help
At Edworkers Consultants, we not only help students with admissions and visas, but also offer career support, including:
- Country-wise legal job guidelines
- Job hunting resources after arrival
- Help with preparing CVs and cover letters
- TRC and work permit guidance (Romania, Poland, Hungary, etc.)
Conclusion
Europe offers great opportunities to earn and learn, but you must follow each country’s legal work limits and student rules. A part-time job can improve your finances, language, and resume—but education should remain your top priority.
Contact Edworkers for Student Visa & TRC Support
Offices: Lahore | Islamabad | Dubai
Phone (Pakistan): +92-334-2202222 |+92-335-2202222
Phone (LHR): +92-309-2205222
Email: ask.edworker@gmail.com
