Working While on a Student Visa

Many students engage in paid work while studying, but it’s essential to be aware of specific rules that apply to your student visa. We have prepared this article to help understand your rights as an employee.

Finding a job can be challenging, and balancing work with study commitments requires careful thought. Be sure to leave time for enjoying student life and getting involved in your study activities.

If you choose to work, verify your eligibility, obtain an Australian tax file number, and familiarise yourself with your rights and responsibilities as an employee. 

How many hours can you work?

Student visa holders in Australia are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during their course and unlimited hours during official holidays or after their course has finished. After finishing your course, if you have completed all course requirements and are awaiting your results or graduation, you are also eligible to work unlimited hours until your visa expires or you transition to a different visa.

A fortnight refers to a 14-day period starting on a Monday. There are some exceptions, such as postgraduate research students on a student visa who can work unlimited hours during their studies. 

Please note that you cannot begin working until your course has officially started, as technically your work rights (work visa) did not come into effect. If your employer requires confirmation of the university holiday period, you can request a letter.

Family members of working age are allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight at any time.

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/student-500

Tax File Number

You must apply for a Tax File Number (TFN) to be eligible for employment. As a student visa holder, you are considered a “resident” for tax purposes. You need to provide your TFN to your employer when you start work.

You can apply for a TFN on the Australian Taxation Office website https://www.ato.gov.au/individuals-and-families/tax-file-number 

Superannuation contribution

Superannuation, or “super,” is a retirement savings system in Australia. Employers are required to contribute a percentage of your earnings into a super fund. As a student visa holder, you are entitled to these contributions just like any other employee. To apply for superannuation, you need to choose a super fund and provide your fund details, including your account number and Tax File Number (TFN), to your employer. 

Finding a job

To apply for jobs, ensure you have an updated resume and a cover letter tailored to each job application. Some jobs may require responses to selection criteria. You can create a professional resume free of charge at https://www.educli.com/en/educli-resume 

The majority of jobs vacant in Australia are advertised online. Visit:

www.seek.com.au

www.mycareer.com.au

www.careerone.com.au

www.studyandwork.com.au

For more details on using job search websites, visit their respective platforms.

Your Rights at Work

It’s crucial to understand your rights and responsibilities as a worker in Australia and know where to seek help and advice. Workers are entitled to rights around minimum wage, workplace health and safety, and protection from discrimination.

For further information and advice about working in Australia, refer to the Fair Work Ombudsman https://www.fairwork.gov.au/ 

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