Working while studying can help international students gain experience and manage some living expenses, but students must follow their visa conditions. In 2026, student visa holders generally need to respect work-hour limits while their course is in session and prioritise study progress.
Current Work-Hour Rule
The Department of Home Affairs states that student visa holders can work up to 48 hours a fortnight while the course is in session. A fortnight is a 14-day period. Students may have different conditions depending on visa grant, course type, and individual circumstances, so always check your visa grant letter and VEVO.
What Students Should Remember
- Do not start work before your course starts unless your visa conditions allow it.
- Keep study attendance and academic progress as the priority.
- Understand that work rights are not a substitute for financial capacity.
- Check employer obligations, tax file number, payslips, and workplace rights.
- Do not breach visa conditions for short-term income.
Can Students Work During Breaks?
Students may have more flexibility during official course breaks, but they should check their specific visa conditions. Students in research degrees or special circumstances may have different rules.
UP Educare Advice
Plan your budget assuming study comes first. Part-time work can support experience and daily expenses, but it should not be the main source for tuition or visa financial evidence.
Official Sources to Check
- Department of Home Affairs Student visa subclass 500: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/student-500
- Genuine Student requirement: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/student-500/genuine-student-requirement
- Document Checklist Tool: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/web-evidentiary-tool
- Study Australia visa application guide: https://www.studyaustralia.gov.au/en/plan-your-move/visa-application-process
Rules, visa charges, financial amounts, English requirements, and processing times can change. Always check the official pages before lodging an application.