Your Right to Work in the UK as a Student
Your Right to Work in the UK as a Student
Understanding your right to work conditions as an international student and how to prove it.
Last reviewed: May 2026
What this is
A guide to the right-to-work check process in the UK — what employers need to see, how to prove your status, and what to do if there are issues.
Why it matters
Employers are legally required to check that you have the right to work in the UK before hiring you. As an international student, your right to work is tied to your visa conditions. Understanding what employers need to see — and your rights in the process — prevents misunderstandings and discrimination.
What to prepare
- •UKVI online account / eVisa or passport with your visa vignette
- •Your NI number (needed for PAYE tax)
Steps to take
- 1Know your work hour limit from your visa conditions — typically 20 hours per week during term time.
- 2Give your employer your UKVI online account or passport with visa vignette to check your right to work.
- 3If you have settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, you may not need a visa — check with your employer.
- 4Your employer will use the Home Office online right-to-work checking service.
- 5You do not need to share your immigration status with your employer beyond what is needed for the right-to-work check.
Common mistakes to avoid
- ✗Working more hours than your visa allows — this is a breach of your visa conditions.
- ✗Not telling your employer you are an international student — they must run the right-to-work check.
Important safety warning
If an employer discriminates against you based on your nationality or immigration status, contact the Equality Advisory and Support Service (EASS) on 0808 800 0082.
Official sources
Home Office right-to-work checks: gov.uk/prove-right-to-work | Employer guidance: gov.uk/guidance/employers-right-to-work-checks
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Disclaimer
Beginly provides general guidance on right-to-work. For immigration advice, consult a qualified immigration solicitor.