Can I Get a Part-Time Job in the UK?
December 25, 2025 – Yes, many people can secure part-time jobs in the UK, but eligibility depends on your immigration status, age, and skills. The UK has a flexible labour market with abundant opportunities in retail, hospitality, administration, and gig economy roles. International students and visitors face restrictions, while UK citizens, settled residents, or those with appropriate work visas enjoy broader access.
Who Can Work Part-Time in the UK?
- UK Citizens and Settled Residents → Unlimited rights to work part-time or full-time without restrictions.
- EU/EEA Citizens with Settled or Pre-Settled Status → Full work rights under the EU Settlement Scheme.
- International Students on a Student Visa →
- Full-time degree-level or higher courses: Up to 20 hours per week during term time; full-time during official vacations.
- Below degree level (e.g., foundation or language courses): Up to 10 hours per week.
- Part-time courses: No work allowed, paid or unpaid.
- Full-time work possible after course completion until visa expiry, or via the Graduate visa (typically 2 years, potentially reducing to 18 months in future changes).
- Visitors or Short-Term Visa Holders → Generally no work permitted.
- Other Visa Holders (e.g., Skilled Worker, Spouse) → Often full or restricted work rights—check your visa conditions.
Always verify your visa vignette, eVisa, or Biometric Residence Permit for exact work permissions.
Popular Part-Time Job Sectors in 2025
The UK job market offers thousands of part-time roles, especially in cities like London, Manchester, Birmingham, and university towns. Key sectors include:
- Hospitality and Retail — Barista, waiter/waitress, retail assistant, hotel receptionist. Flexible shifts, often evenings/weekends.
- Customer Service and Administration — Call centre agent, office admin, receptionist.
- Gig Economy and Delivery — Food delivery (Deliveroo, Uber Eats), ridesharing (Uber—if visa allows).
- Tutoring and Education — Private tutor, teaching assistant (great for students with subject expertise).
- On-Campus Roles (for Students) — Library assistant, campus ambassador, research assistant.
- Other Flexible Options — Warehouse worker, cleaner, event staff, freelance (if visa permits).
Current listings on platforms like Indeed show over 30,000–80,000 part-time jobs nationwide, with high demand in seasonal roles.
Salary Expectations
- National Minimum Wage (as of 2025):
- Age 21+: £12.21 per hour.
- Age 18–20: Around £10.00 per hour.
- Under 18/apprentices: Lower rates.
- Average part-time earnings: £10–£15 per hour, higher in London (often £12–£18 for skilled roles like tutoring).
- Working 20 hours/week at minimum wage: Potential £900–£1,200 monthly (before tax).
Many roles include tips, staff discounts, or perks like free meals.
Restrictions and Rules (Especially for International Students)
- No self-employment, freelancing (unless specific exceptions), or starting a business.
- No permanent full-time contracts during studies.
- No professional sports/entertainer roles.
- Paid and unpaid work count toward hour limits.
- Breaches can lead to visa cancellation—always comply.
How to Find Part-Time Jobs
- Job Portals — Indeed.co.uk, Reed.co.uk, LinkedIn, StudentJob.co.uk.
- University Careers Services — On-campus jobs and advice.
- Local Networking — Job fairs, university groups, direct applications to shops/restaurants.
- Gig Apps — Uber Eats, Deliveroo (check visa compatibility).
Tips for Success
- Update your CV to highlight skills and availability.
- Get a National Insurance Number (required for paid work).
- Balance work with studies—universities monitor progress.
- For students: Prioritise flexible shifts; build experience for post-study opportunities.
Part-time work in the UK can provide financial support, valuable experience, and networking. If you’re on a restricted visa, plan carefully to avoid issues.
Note: Rules can change; always check gov.uk or UKCISA for the latest guidance and verify your personal visa conditions.