Australian Student Visa: Work Limitations Explained

Studying in Australia is a dream for many international students. With globally recognised universities, a diverse culture, and a vibrant lifestyle, Australia offers a rich academic and personal experience. Beyond lectures and assignments, many students also seek employment to support themselves financially or gain work experience.

If you’re an international student, it’s essential to understand the work limitations attached to your Australian student visa. These rules ensure that your studies remain the main priority while still allowing opportunities to work legally in Australia.

This blog explains key conditions, including work hour limits, types of jobs allowed, legal requirements, and work rights for dependents of student visa holders.

Can Student Visa Holders Work in Australia?

Yes, international students in Australia can work while holding a valid student visa. However, this comes with conditions to help balance study and work.

1. During study periods: You can work up to 48 hours per fortnight.
2. During official course breaks, you may work unlimited hours.

These limits are monitored by the Department of Home Affairs. Violating these conditions can lead to visa cancellation, so it’s important to track your work hours.

Work Hour Limits Fro Student Visa: What You Need to Know

The 48-hour per fortnight limit only applies during academic terms. This equates to roughly 24 hours per week, allowing students to earn income without compromising their education.

During holidays or semester breaks, this limit is lifted. Many students use this time to work full-time and save money or gain valuable work experience.

Important: Breaching the 48-hour limit during study terms can result in visa cancellation or future visa rejections. Always keep accurate work hour records.

What Jobs Can International Students Do?

Australian student visas allow you to work in a range of industries, not limited to your field of study. This flexibility helps you gain transferable skills and support yourself financially.

Common Jobs for Students Include:

1. Retail: Store assistant, cashier
2. Hospitality: Waitstaff, barista, kitchen hand
3. Administration: Office assistant, data entry
4. Customer Service: Call centres, front desk support

These roles often offer flexible hours, making it easier to manage work and study responsibilities.

Work Rights for Student Visa Dependents

Student visa dependents can also work in Australia, but the rules vary based on the student’s course level:

Dependents must also apply for a Tax File Number (TFN) before starting employment.

Legal Requirements: Working Lawfully in Australia

Before working, student visa holders must meet legal obligations:

Essential Legal Requirements:

1. Apply for a Tax File Number (TFN) via the Australian Taxation Office
2. Check visa conditions using VEVO to confirm work rights
3. Comply with workplace laws, including minimum wage and safety standards

Failing to meet these requirements can lead to visa complications, unpaid wages, or legal issues.

Workplace Rights and Protections

All workers in Australia, including international students, are protected by law. Key rights include:

1. Minimum wage compliance
2. Safe and healthy work environments
3. Freedom from unfair dismissal or exploitation

If you’re being treated unfairly, contact the Fair Work Ombudsman for help.

Risks of Breaching Work Conditions

Breaching visa work conditions has serious consequences:

1. Visa cancellation
2. Ineligibility for future visas
3. Fines or legal action

Understanding your obligations and sticking to them is the best way to avoid these risks.

Tips for Balancing Study and Work

Balancing study and part-time work can be manageable with proper planning:

1. Create a weekly schedule to organise work around your classes
2. Prioritise academic goals to stay on track
3. Get enough rest to avoid burnout
4. Use campus support services for academic and personal help

Finding Jobs as an International Student

Here are some ways to find suitable part-time work in Australia:

1. University career services – job boards, resume reviews, and workshops
2. Online job platforms – SEEK, Indeed, Student Job Board
3. Local businesses – especially in retail and hospitality
4. Social media and forums – Facebook groups, LinkedIn, student networks

Make sure your resume is updated and tailored to the role you’re applying for. Availability on evenings and weekends can give you an edge.

Frequently Asked Questions on Student Visas

Q1 – Can I work more than 48 hours per fortnight if I have two jobs?

A – No. The 48-hour limit applies to the total hours across all jobs during term time.

Q2 – Can I volunteer instead of working?

A – Yes, but only in unpaid and genuine volunteer roles. Some volunteering may still count as work depending on the circumstances.

Q3 – What if I accidentally exceed the work limit?

A – Even accidental breaches can affect your visa. Inform your employer and seek advice from your education provider or a qualified migration lawyer immediately.

Q4 – Can I start working as soon as I arrive in Australia?

A – You may only begin working once your course officially starts. Starting before that may breach visa conditions.

Why Choose Emigrate Lawyers for Student Visa Advice?

At Emigrate Lawyers, we understand the unique challenges international students face when studying and working in Australia. Whether you’re unsure about your work rights, concerned about a potential visa breach, or planning to bring your dependents, our experienced immigration lawyers can guide you through every step of your journey.

We specialise in providing clear, tailored legal advice to help students:

1. Understand and comply with visa conditions
2. Respond to work-related visa breaches
3. Navigate changes in student visa policies
4. Apply for post-study work visas and future migration pathways

Unlike migration agents, Emigrate Lawyers offers full legal support backed by qualified solicitors with a deep understanding of Australian migration law.

Final Thoughts

Australia offers international students an incredible opportunity for education and growth. By understanding your student visa work limitations, you can stay compliant, gain valuable experience, and enjoy your time in Australia.

For personalised legal advice, always consult immigration lawyers who specialise in student visa matters.