Can Indian Students Work Part-Time While Studying in France?

Yes, Indian students studying in France can work part-time while pursuing their education. Students enrolled in a full-time program at a recognized French institution and holding a valid French Student Visa (VLS-TS) are legally allowed to work limited hours during the academic year and increased hours during vacations. France offers many part-time opportunities in retail, hospitality, customer service, university departments, IT support, and administrative roles. Working part-time helps students gain experience, manage living expenses, and adapt to France’s multicultural work environment.
 

Rules for Part-Time Work in France for Indian Students

• Students can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic term
• Students can work up to 964 hours per year (approx. 60% of full-time employment)
• Valid VLS-TS Student Visa is required to work legally
• Students must stay enrolled and maintain regular class attendance
• Minimum wage rules (SMIC) apply to all student workers
• Students must obtain a French Social Security Number to work
• Income tax and social contributions apply as per French laws

*Planning to study in France? Contact Y-Axis for complete guidance.
 

Popular Part-Time Jobs for Indian Students in France

• Retail store assistant
• Café or restaurant staff
• Customer service associate
• Delivery assistant or warehouse helper
• University assistant (research, lab, or teaching support)
• IT support or junior technical roles
• Hotel and hospitality staff
• English tutor or language assistant
• Office/administrative assistant

Basic English is acceptable for many international roles, but knowing French improves job opportunities and communication with employers.
 

Average Earnings from Part-Time Jobs in France

Indian students typically earn between €11.65 to €15 per hour, depending on the job type, location, and employer. Hospitality, retail, and customer service roles usually pay base salaries, while technical or university-related positions may offer higher pay. Students can earn more on evening, weekend, or holiday shifts. Part-time income helps cover food, utilities, travel, and general living expenses.
 

Benefits of Working Part-Time in France

• Helps reduce monthly living and personal expenses
• Provides exposure to France’s international and French-speaking work culture
• Builds communication, teamwork, and customer-handling skills
• Offers valuable industry experience for future career growth
• Strengthens resumes for internships and full-time roles
• Helps build a strong professional network
• Boosts confidence, adaptability, and time-management skills

How to Find Part-Time Jobs in France

Indian students can explore several options to find suitable part-time roles:

• University career centres and campus job boards
• Online portals: Indeed France, Pôle Emploi, StudentJob.fr, LinkedIn, Welcome to the Jungle
• Walk-ins at cafés, supermarkets, restaurants, and retail stores
• Networking with classmates, senior students, and local communities
• Attending job fairs, recruitment events, and university career sessions
• Improving French language skills to access more opportunities
   

Key Documents Required for Part-Time Work in France

• Valid VLS-TS Student Visa
• Passport and student identity card
• Enrollment letter from the university
• French Social Security registration
• French bank account for salary deposits
• Tax registration via gouv.fr
   

Work Restrictions for Indian Students in France

• Cannot work more than 20 hours per week during the academic term
• Total work hours must not exceed 964 hours per year
• Work must not interfere with academic attendance or performance
• Cannot work without a valid student visa
• Must follow French labour laws, tax rules, and employment regulations
   

Planning to study or settle in France? Contact Y-Axis, India’s No. 1 overseas career consultant, for expert guidance on admissions, visas, and post-study options.