---
title: "Working in the UK: your rights and restrictions"
description: "Working in the UK: your rights and restrictions| Arden University"
canonical: "https://ads.pr1.ops.ads.arden-prod01.arden.ac.uk/international-students/study-in-the-uk/pre-arrival-guide/arrival/working-in-the-uk"
published: 2026-02-05
updated: 2026-03-11
author: "Arden University"
---

# Working in the UK: your rights and restrictions

[ Back to Arrival guide home ](https://ads.pr1.ops.ads.arden-prod01.arden.ac.uk/international-students/study-in-the-uk/pre-arrival-guide/arrival) [ Go to Pre-Arrival in the UK guide ](https://ads.pr1.ops.ads.arden-prod01.arden.ac.uk/international-students/study-in-the-uk/pre-arrival-guide/pre-arrival) [ Next step: Academic preparation ](https://ads.pr1.ops.ads.arden-prod01.arden.ac.uk/international-students/study-in-the-uk/pre-arrival-guide/arrival/academic-preparation)

Many international students choose to work part time while studying in the UK. If you are studying on a **Student visa**, you may be allowed to work, but there are specific rules you must follow.

Your working permissions can vary depending on your course level and study mode, so it’s important to understand what applies to you.

**Working hours and restrictions**

Typical Student visa work conditions include:

- Up to **20 hours per week during term time** for eligible full-time higher education students
- **Full-time work during official university vacation periods**
- **No self-employment**, freelance work, professional sport, or work as an entertainer

You may have more than one job, but your total working hours must not exceed the permitted limit during term time.

**Your rights at work**

If you are working in the UK, you are entitled to:

- At least the **National Minimum Wage**
- A **written contract**
- **Payslips** showing your earnings and deductions
- **Safe working conditions**

**National Insurance (NI) number**

To work in the UK, you will need a **National Insurance (NI) number**, which ensures you are taxed correctly.

- You can apply for an NI number **online once you are in the UK**
- It is **free to apply**, and you do not need the number before starting work, but you should apply as soon as possible
- You will need your **passport**, **visa** **details**, and **UK** **address** to apply
- Once issued, your NI number stays with you for life

Only use the official [www.gov.uk](https://www.gov.uk/) website to apply for your NI number. Other websites may charge you unnecessarily.

**Important reminder**

Always check your visa stamp or digital visa status to confirm your personal working permissions before starting any work.

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