Navigating Work While on a Student Visa in the UK: A Comprehensive Guide

For many international students, navigating the complexities of working while studying in the UK can be daunting. This article aims to clarify what you can and cannot do under a Student visa, ensuring you remain compliant with UK immigration rules.

Can I Work in the UK with a Student Visa?

Yes, you can work in the UK on a Student visa, but there are specific restrictions and guidelines that you must adhere to, as outlined by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).

What You Need to Know

Working During Your Studies

1. Hours Permitted: If you are enrolled in a full-time degree-level course, you are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during university term time. If you are enrolled in a below degree-level course, you are allowed to work up to 10 hours per week during university term time. This is defined by UKVI as a seven-day period starting on a Monday and ending on a Sunday.

2. Vacation Periods: You can work full-time during official vacation periods as specified by your institution.

3. Placements: Full-time work during term time is allowed if you are undertaking a work placement that is an assessed part of your course. However, the work placement must not exceed 33% of your total course duration, except where the course is at a degree level or higher, in which case it can be up to 50% of the total course duration.

4. Union Sabbatical Officer: You can work full-time for up to two years if elected as a student union sabbatical officer, as this is an exempt position.

Restrictions

• No Permanent Employment: You cannot be employed on a permanent contract.

• No Self-Employment: You are not allowed to set up a business or be self-employed, including freelance work. Even remote work for a company abroad counts towards your weekly work limit if it is done while you are in the UK.

• Specific Job Prohibitions: You cannot work as a professional sportsperson (including a coach), entertainer, or in a statutory role such as a director where you hold 10% or more shares in a business.

• No Work as a Doctor or Dentist in Training: Unless you are enrolled in a foundation programme, you cannot work as a doctor or dentist in training.

After Your Course

Once your course has officially ended, you can work full-time until your visa expires or for up to four months, whichever comes first. If you want to continue working in the UK permanently, you must apply for a different visa, such as the Skilled Worker visa.

The Graduate Route

Introduced on 1st July 2021, the Graduate Route allows you to work or seek work at any skill level for up to two years after successfully completing a degree. You can also switch to a Skilled Worker visa if you meet the necessary criteria during this period.

How We Can Help

Navigating the rules surrounding work on a Student visa can be challenging. Understanding these guidelines will help you make the most of your time in the UK while staying within legal limits.

If you have any immigration concerns or need expert legal advice, contact us today. You can arrange an appointment with our experienced lawyers by calling +44 203 488 2308 or completing our enquiry form. We are here to help you navigate your legal challenges efficiently and effectively.