A student visa in Australia is a type of visa that allows international students to live and study in Australia. With this visa, students can enroll in full-time courses at Australian universities, colleges, or schools. It also allows students to work part-time while studying. How many hours can you work on a student visa in Australia?
The most common student visa is the Subclass 500. This visa is for students who want to take up an eligible course in Australia. It is granted for the duration of the course plus some extra time at the end for students to prepare to leave the country or apply for further visas.
Can You Work on a Student Visa in Australia?
Yes, you can work on a student visa in Australia. The Australian government allows international students to work part-time while they study. This helps students earn money to support their living expenses and also gain work experience in Australia.
Working while studying can be helpful in many ways. Students learn how to manage their time, understand Australian work culture, and improve their English language skills. It also helps students meet new people and build social connections.
How Many Hours Are You Allowed to Work?
As of 2024, student visa holders in Australia are allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during their course. A fortnight means a period of two weeks. This means you can work up to 24 hours in one week and 24 hours in the next, or you can manage your hours in any other way, as long as the total in two weeks does not go over 48 hours.
When your course is not in session, such as during holidays or official breaks, you can work unlimited hours. This gives students a chance to earn more money during vacation periods.
What Counts as “Work Hours”?
Work hours include any time you spend doing paid work for an employer. It also includes some unpaid work if it is for the purpose of gaining work experience or internship and is not a required part of your course.
Volunteering for a charitable organization usually does not count as work hours, but it is important to check with your school or immigration advisor to make sure. If you are working unpaid in exchange for free accommodation or meals, that can also count as work under certain conditions.
When Are You Allowed to Start Working?
You are only allowed to start working after your course has started. Even if you arrive early in Australia, you cannot begin working before your first day of classes. Once your course begins, the 48-hour per fortnight work limit applies.
If you work before your course starts, you may be breaking your visa conditions, which can lead to serious consequences. Always check your visa grant notice for the exact date from which you can begin working.
What Happens If You Work More Than the Limit?
If you work more than 48 hours in a fortnight while your course is in session, you are breaching your visa conditions. The Australian Department of Home Affairs takes this very seriously. You could face the following consequences:
Your visa may be canceled.
You may be banned from applying for another visa.
Your school may also take action, such as reporting you to the authorities.
It may affect your future immigration status in Australia.
It is very important to keep track of your work hours. Many students use a notebook or an app to track their time so they do not accidentally go over the limit.
Do You Need a Tax File Number?
Yes, if you want to work in Australia, you need to apply for a Tax File Number (TFN). A TFN is a personal number issued by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). Your employer will ask for your TFN when you start working.
Having a TFN ensures that you are taxed correctly. If you do not provide a TFN, your employer may deduct more tax from your wages than necessary. You can apply for a TFN online after you arrive in Australia.
What Kind of Jobs Can You Do?
Student visa holders can work in many different types of jobs. Some of the most common jobs for international students in Australia include:
Working in cafes, restaurants, and fast food chains
Working in supermarkets or retail stores
Delivering food or parcels
Cleaning services
Tutoring other students
Working in childcare centers (if qualified)
Call center or customer service work
These jobs often offer flexible hours and do not require very high skills or qualifications. This makes them suitable for students who are focusing on their studies.
Can You Work in a Job Related to Your Course?
Yes, and in fact, it can be a good idea. Working in a job related to your course gives you real-world experience in your field. For example, if you are studying IT, you may be able to find a part-time job or internship at a tech company. If you are studying nursing, you might find work as a personal care assistant.
Some courses have internships or work placements built into them. These are known as “work-integrated learning.” If the work is a required part of your course and approved by your education provider, then those hours may not count toward your 48-hour limit. You should check this with your school to be sure.
What Should You Know About Australian Work Laws?
When you work in Australia, you are protected by Australian law. This means:
You must be paid at least the minimum wage.
You must get payslips from your employer.
You must be paid for every hour you work.
You are entitled to safe working conditions.
Some employers may try to take advantage of international students by offering lower wages or not paying at all. If this happens to you, you should report it. There are organizations in Australia that protect worker rights, such as the Fair Work Ombudsman.
You can also get help from your school. Most universities and colleges have student support services that can give you advice about your job, visa, or any problems you face at work.
Can You Work More Hours After Graduation?
Yes. If you want to work full-time in Australia after finishing your course, you will need to apply for a different visa. One common option is the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485). This visa allows you to stay and work in Australia for a period of time after you complete your studies.
The length of time you can stay depends on your level of education. For example, if you complete a Bachelor’s degree, you may be able to stay for 2 years. If you complete a Master’s degree, you may stay for up to 3 years. If you study in regional Australia, you might be eligible for extra years.
Once you have the 485 visa, you can work full-time with no hour restrictions.
Can Family Members Work Too?
If your student visa allows family members, such as a spouse or partner, to come with you, they may also be able to work. Usually:
They can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while you are studying.
If you are studying a Master’s degree or higher, your partner can work unlimited hours.
It is important to check the specific conditions of your visa to understand what your family members can and cannot do.
Tips for Managing Study and Work
Balancing work and study can be difficult. Here are a few tips to help you manage your time well:
Make a schedule: Plan your study and work hours ahead of time.
Prioritize your studies: Remember that your main reason for being in Australia is education.
Avoid night shifts: Try to find jobs that do not affect your sleep or health.
Speak to your school: They may help you find suitable jobs or internships.
Keep records: Always keep track of your work hours and pay.
Conclusion
Working while studying in Australia can be a great opportunity. It helps you earn extra income, gain experience, and become more confident in a new country. However, it is important to follow the rules and not exceed your work limits.
If you stick to the 48-hour fortnight rule and stay focused on your studies, your time in Australia can be both successful and enjoyable. Always ask for help if you are not sure about something, and remember that your school and government resources are there to support you.
