Working while you study
How many hours you may work, your workplace rights, and the rules that protect your visa.
1 min read🇨🇦 Canada · 🇦🇺 Australia
Work limits are visa conditions
Working more than you're allowed can lead to visa cancellation. Limits have changed several times recently, so always check the official page linked below.
Current limits (checked September 2026)
| Canada | Australia | |
|---|---|---|
| During study periods | Up to 24 hours per week off campus | Up to 48 hours per fortnight |
| During scheduled breaks | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Before you can work | Program must have started; need a SIN | Course must have started; need a TFN |
Your rights
- You must be paid at least the legal minimum wage. Cash-in-hand below the minimum is illegal.
- You should receive payslips, and tax should be handled correctly.
- You can report underpayment without it harming your visa. In Australia, the Fair Work Ombudsman helps visa holders.
Put your studies first. Failing courses can breach your visa conditions, and it can hurt your post-study work options.
Official sources
Rules change often. Always confirm with the official source before you submit anything.
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