Working while studying in France has become an essential part of student life for many international learners. Whether you want to reduce your living expenses, gain professional experience, or simply integrate more deeply into French society, part-time work offers valuable opportunities. France’s supportive labor laws, diverse job market, and student-friendly environment make it possible to earn an income while still progressing through your academic program.
In this guide, you’ll learn how international students can legally work in France, the types of jobs available, and how to balance work with your studies effectively.
Can International Students Work in France?
International students can legally work in France, even if they are enrolled in a full-time academic program. As long as you hold a valid student residence permit (VLS-TS or student residence card), you are authorized to work part-time during your studies. Working while studying in France is a common choice among international students because it helps cover living expenses, improves language skills, and provides valuable professional experience.
Additionally, you don’t need a separate work permit for most part-time jobs. Your student visa already gives you the right to work under specific conditions. Universities in France also collaborate with companies and offer campus-based jobs, making it easier for students to find flexible opportunities that fit their schedule.
| If you’re planning your academic journey, you can explore more details through our related guide on Study in France. |
Legal Work Limits
Working while studying in France is fully allowed for international students, but there are clear legal rules you must follow. Understanding these limits helps you avoid visa issues and ensures you stay focused on your academic goals.
In France, international students are allowed to work:
• Up to 964 hours per year (which equals 20 hours per week)
• Up to 60% of full-time employment
• Both on-campus and off-campus, including cafés, retail stores, university jobs, and internships
• Without needing a separate work permit, as long as you hold a valid student residence permit
Keep in mind that during university holidays, students are sometimes allowed to work full-time, as long as the total annual limit (964 hours) is not exceeded.
Additionally, internships that are part of your academic program follow different rules and do not count as part-time work hours, since they are considered educational training—not employment.
Popular Student Jobs
France offers a wide range of part-time job opportunities suitable for international students. Most positions do not require advanced French at the beginning, making them accessible even during your first months of arrival. The most common student jobs include:
1. Hospitality & Café Work
Jobs in cafés, restaurants, bakeries, and fast-food chains are among the most popular choices. These roles often include flexible hours, making it easier to manage your class schedule.
2. Retail and Sales Assistant
Working in clothing stores, supermarkets, or bookstores is another common option. These jobs help students improve their French quickly thanks to daily customer interaction.
3. University On-Campus Jobs
Some universities offer roles such as library assistants, IT support, language tutors, or event staff. These positions typically have fixed schedules that align well with academic programs.
4. Babysitting and Au Pair Work
Babysitting is one of the easiest and highest-paying student jobs in France. Many families prefer English-speaking students, making it ideal for international applicants.
5. English Tutoring
Being a native or fluent English speaker is a big advantage. International students often work as private tutors for children, professionals, or even groups.
6. Internships (Paid or Unpaid)
Although internships differ from part-time jobs, many Master’s students combine both. Paid internships provide excellent work experience and often lead to full-time opportunities after graduation.
Overall, working while studying in France gives students not only extra income but also real-life cultural exposure and professional experience.
Tips to Balance Work and Study
Working while studying in France can be rewarding, but balancing both requires good planning and consistent habits. Here are practical tips that help international students manage their schedules effectively:
• Prioritize Your Academic Schedule: Your classes, exams, and project deadlines should always come first. Create a weekly study plan and choose work shifts that fit around your academic commitments.
• Choose Flexible Part-Time Jobs: Select jobs with adjustable hours — such as campus jobs, café work, tutoring, or delivery roles. Flexibility makes it easier to adapt during exam periods or busy weeks.
• Avoid Taking Too Many Hours: Even though you are legally allowed to work up to 964 hours per year, working excessively can affect your grades. Aim for a realistic number of weekly hours that doesn’t cause burnout.
• Use Digital Tools to Stay Organized: Apps like Google Calendar, Notion, or Trello help you track deadlines, work shifts, and study sessions so you can maintain a healthy routine.
• Communicate With Your Employer: Most employers in France are familiar with student schedules. Inform them in advance about busy academic periods — many are willing to adjust your shifts.
• Maintain Your Well-Being: A balanced lifestyle is essential. Make time for rest, social life, and healthy meals so you can stay productive both at work and at university.
| For more insights into academic planning and student success, explore our guide on France study programs. |
Work after Graduation
Working while studying in France can open the door to long-term career opportunities — especially if you wish to stay and build your professional future in the country. France offers several pathways for international graduates to seek full-time employment after completing their studies.
After graduation, students with a Master’s degree or higher can apply for a “Recherche d’Emploi ou Création d’Entreprise” (RECE) permit, which allows them to stay in France for 12 months (renewable once) to look for work or start a business. During this period, you may work full-time as long as the job is related to your field of study.
Graduates with degrees at licence (Bachelor’s) level or below typically need to secure a job contract and apply for a change of status to a work permit. Fields such as technology, engineering, business, hospitality, healthcare, and research offer strong employment opportunities for international graduates.
Because France is part of the EU labor market, gaining work experience here can also unlock broader career mobility across Europe — a major advantage for students planning a long-term international career.
Conclusion
Working while studying in France offers international students valuable professional experience, financial support, and deeper integration into French society. Thanks to flexible part-time opportunities, clear legal regulations, and strong post-graduation pathways, students can build both their academic and career future while living in one of the world’s most dynamic destinations.
By understanding work rules, choosing the right job, and maintaining a healthy balance between studies and employment, you can make the most of your student life in France and prepare for long-term success.
If you need guidance with job regulations, choosing the right study program, or navigating administrative requirements, EuroGlobe’s expert team is here to support you every step of the way.
