Working in the UK

Can I Work While I'm a Student?

1. Nationals from EU and EEA countries Yes, you have the right to take up employment in the UK as a student. Students from some of the new EU countries may need to register under the Worker Registration Scheme:www.workingintheuk.gov.uk

2. Students from all other countries: The stamp/sticker in your passport will tell you if you are allowed to work or not. Generally, International Students are being given restricted permission to work. This permission is given when you apply for entry clearance to the UK.

How do I Apply for Permission to Work during my Studies?

If you are coming to the UK for a course that lasts longer than 6 months, you should automatically be given permission to work up to 20 hours per week (and full-time during student holidays) on your student entry clearance sticker, so check with the British Embassy when you apply.

If you are coming to the UK for 6 months or less, you would normally not be allowed to work, unless you specifically ask for such permission when you apply for entry clearance (this is called “Entry on Code 2”).

To be sure to get permission to work, we recommend that you apply for entry clearance in advance (at the British Embassy in your home county) in all cases.

It is important, that you can show that you have enough money to support yourself without having to work in the UK. You need evidence to prove this (e.g. bank statements, a sponsor’s letter) and to stress that the reason you want to work is NOT financial but educational (such as - for experience, to improve your English, your CV).

If you are not sure if you are allowed to work, please show your passport to the International Welfare Adviser once you have arrived at Chichester. It is a criminal offence to work if you do not have permission or to work for more hours than those authorised by the government.

For more information visit: www.UKCISA.org.uk

Can I Apply to Work in the UK After my Studies?

There are some schemes that allow students to stay on in the UK to work after finishing a degree. If you want to apply to work, find out if you might be able eligible for one of the schemes. Remember to make the necessary arrangements before your permission to stay in the UK as a student runs out.

For more information, visit: www.UKCISA.org.uk

Please note: We can accept no responsibility for any errors or omissions. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the above information, it is meant for guidance only and cannot cover every eventuality. For individual queries, please contact the International Welfare Adviser: Intwelfare@chi.ac.uk