Can foreign students have paid part time work in France?

Reader Question: If my son (an American) moves to France to study, will he be able to earn money from part-time work?

Foreign students in France are able to work, as long as it is no more than 60% of a full-time job (no more than 21 hours per week).

Although a good level of French will be required for most typical student jobs (working in a café or clothes shop for example), some places such as themed bars or pubs look to higher native English speakers.

The employer should make a declaration to the prefecture about hiring a foreign student.

Be aware, however, that the students workload may be higher at a French university than back at home, and working a job for 21 hours may not be feasible alongside intensive studying.

Tax rules are slightly different

Note that income from student jobs is declarable in France in the annual income tax return in May/June for the previous year’s income.

There is, however, an exemption of several thousand euros for people aged under 26 on January 1 of a given tax year – this was €4,936 for 2022 income – and students need only declare any income over this.

Income from work placements linked to their studies is exempt from taxation up to the level of the minimum wage.

Related articles:

What is a TEFL certificate, do I need this to teach in France?