Although a decline in international students has been registered in famous study abroad destinations such as the US and UK, France has witnessed a 14% increase over the same period, due to its academic benefits and excellence. However, students moving to France face a setback in gearing up with their expenses as the cost of living in France is 200% higher than in India. You can easily resolve this by finding a part-time job in France and supporting your studies financially.
The French Law allows foreign students to work up to 964 hours per year, or 60% of the maximum working hours that are permitted, without an Autorisation Provisoire de Travail (APT). It also guarantees a minimum wage of EUR 11.65 (INR 1,163) per hour, which equates to a substantial amount of EUR 11,230.6 (INR 11.2 Lakhs), which you can use to fulfill your dreams of studying in France.
Key Highlights:
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With a part-time job in France, you can earn between EUR 750 (INR 68,110) and EUR 1,050 (INR 95,350) per month.
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The top companies offering part-time jobs in France are Carrefour, McDonald’s, Decathlon, and Leclerc.
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The best online sites for searching for part-time jobs in France are Pôle Emploi, Le Bon Coin, and LinkedIn.
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Part-time jobs in France for international students include server, barista, library assistant, and sales assistant.
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Benefits of Doing a Part-Time Job in France
Part-time jobs in France present an excellent opportunity for students and professionals alike, offering flexibility and valuable experience in a vibrant job market. From financial relief to networking opportunities, part-time work can significantly enhance your personal and professional growth. Some of the benefits are:
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Financial Support: Part-time jobs provide a source of income that can help cover living expenses, tuition fees, and other financial obligations, easing the burden of student debt or personal expenses.
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Work Experience: Gaining work experience in a part-time role can enhance your resume and provide valuable skills relevant to future careers, such as teamwork, communication, and time management.
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Networking Opportunities: Working part-time allows individuals to build professional connections in their industry, which can be beneficial for future job opportunities and internships.
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Legal Protections: In France, part-time workers are entitled to various labor protections, including minimum wage, paid leave, and social security benefits, which can provide job security and stability.
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Skill Development: Part-time jobs can help individuals develop transferable skills that are valuable in any career, such as problem-solving, customer service, and adaptability.
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Potential for Full-Time Employment: Part-time positions can sometimes lead to full-time job offers, allowing individuals to transition into a permanent role with the same employer.
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Eligibility Criteria for Part-Time Work in France
Although part-time jobs for a foreign student are well facilitated by the French laws, there are a few requirements that any foreign student must keep in mind before applying for one. France has a set of rules and regulations that are maintained to balance this work-study dynamic. Let us take a detailed look at the key eligibility criteria, to help you work legally while pursuing your studies:
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Valid Student Visa: You must hold a valid VLS-TS, which would allow you to stay in France for four months to a year for your studies. This will entitle you to work to finance your studies, provide you with rental subsidy, and allow you free security deposit service.
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Enrollment in Accredited Institutions: You must be enrolled in a recognised French higher education establishment, for which you are required to stay for a year or more. This will also allow access to a long-stay visa equivalent to a residence permit, which will help you secure a part-time job.
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Age Restrictions: To enroll in any higher studies program and access the visa which will also help you work, your age must be above 18 with no upper limit to the age restriction
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Academic Performance: You need to maintain satisfactory academic progress, as poor performance may jeopardise your visa status and eligibility to work.
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Work Hour Limit: You can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year, as an international student in France engaged in part-time employment. However, during holidays you can work full time without any restrictions.
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Residence Permit: If you belong to a non-EU/EEA country, you might require a residence permit (Titre de Sejour), to allow you work.
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Language: Although international students can rely on English primarily, knowing French makes a huge difference. While no explicitly linguistic obligation is laid out, knowing French allows you to access a wider range of work opportunities.
Types of Part-time Jobs in France
Foreign students in France can explore various part-time job opportunities to support their studies and gain valuable work experience. Let us take a look at some of the part-time roles available for foreign students in France.
University Part-Time Jobs for International Students in France
Most of the universities in France offer on-campus part-time job opportunities to aid the earnings of their students. These job roles can help you build a network of connections on campus, provide you with valuable apprenticeship, and help you build leadership skills. Some of the on-campus jobs you can apply for are:
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Library Assistant
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Research Assistant
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Teaching Assistant
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Tech Supporter
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Jobs at on-campus eateries
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Campus Guide
Off-Campus Part-time Jobs for International Students in France
Apart from on-campus job roles, you can also look for various other part-time job roles, which are available outside the campus, to help you financially. Many job roles which do not require much mental work and offer flexible working hours are also available. Here’s a list of a few such roles:
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Sales Assistant
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Cashier
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Private Tutor
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Freelancer
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Serving at restaurants
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Translator
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Babysitting
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Tour Guide
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Dog Walking
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Driver
Assistantships
In France, plenty of professors hire bright, motivated students on a part-time basis to serve as their assistants. This gives the students a chance to access valuable knowledge, work experience, and form considerable connections with others in the field. Indian students in Paris have access to several such part-time occupations. By doing this, you will get additional money while also learning from a reputable instructor.
Work Hour Limitations and Wage Rules in France
An international student can earn a minimum of EUR 9.22 per hour, with part-time jobs working for a maximum of 964 hours per year. While part-time jobs can bring financial stability for international students, there are a few sets of rules that you will have to keep in mind:
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The French government grants 964 working hours a year to every international student with a valid visa.
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You are permitted to work for 472 hours in case you are enrolled in a 6-month program.
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The French law also maintains a statutory minimum wage, also known as the SMIC, which ensures a minimum wage of EUR 11.65 (INR 1,163) per hour to every working individual.
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A minimum social security contribution of approximately 20% is deducted from all wages, rounding off the income to EUR 9.22 (INR 920.58) per hour, which comes to EUR 8,888.08 (INR 8.8 Lakhs) annually.
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International students are also granted jobs at their host universities or institutions, with an opportunity to work for a year, generally starting from September 1st to August 31st.
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These students are not permitted to work more than 670 hours between September 1st and June 30th and not more than 300 hours between July 1st and August 31st, to ensure a proper academic balance.
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Internships that last more than two months are required to pay the student EUR 650 per month as compensation.
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The internships that are done as part of the program the student is enrolled in are not counted as part of the 964 hours of work permissible by the French government.
Popular Part-Time Jobs in France for International Students
Among the various part-time job opportunities available to international students in France some of the popular roles are jobs associated with hospitality, retail and tutoring. These roles allow the students to work flexible hours with lower mental strain, which helps them to balance work with studies.
Let us take a look at some of the popular part-time jobs among international students:
Job Role |
Type |
Average pay |
---|---|---|
Server |
Off-Campus |
EUR 1,450 (INR 1.4 Lakhs) per month |
Library Assistant |
On-campus |
EUR 1472 (1.4 Lakhs) per month |
Sales Assistant |
Off-campus |
EUR 1,625 (INR 1.62 Lakhs) per month |
Cashier |
Off-campus |
EUR 900 (INR 89,861) - EUR 1000 (INR 99,905) per month |
Research Assistant |
On-campus |
EUR 1917 (INR 1.9 Lakhs) per month |
Private Tutor |
Off-campus |
EUR 19 (INR 1,898) per hour |
Tour Guide |
Off-campus |
EUR 11(INR 1,098) per hour |
Suggested: Job Opportunities in France for International Students
Skills Required in Part-Time Jobs in France for Indian Students
In order to work part-time, you must possess the skill sets such as communication and adaptability, which are found to be key in the field. To secure part-time jobs in France, you should focus on developing skill sets that are highly valued by French Employers and particular to your field of work. Here are some essential skills required for popular part-time jobs:
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Communication Skills: Your ability to interact with customers and colleagues will be a key feature when working in the sales, retail, and hospitality industry.
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Organisational Skills: Managing tasks, prioritising work, and maintaining an appropriate work environment are also essential skills required in the sales and retail industry.
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Fluency of language: English tutoring has been a very popular part-time job for many international students, and securing such a role requires exceptional fluency of the language.
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Adaptability: To access job roles such as a teaching assistant or a research assistant, skills like patience and adaptability play a significant role.
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Knowledge of Culture: Job roles like Tour Guides, which are a popular source of part-time income, require extensive knowledge of French culture and its history.
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Persuasion Skills: To work as a sales assistant, one is required to master product knowledge and persuasion skills, as earnings in such roles are dependent upon appeasing the customers.
Top Industries for Part-Time Jobs in France
Some of the top industries that offer part-time opportunities to international students studying in France are Carrefour, McDonald’s, Decathlon, etc. These well-known companies in the fields of sales, retail, and hospitality offer flexible working hours that accommodate academic schedules and offer students an easy source of earning. Here’s a list of the various companies that provide job opportunities across various sectors:
Companies |
Description |
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Carrefour |
One of the largest supermarket chains in France, Carrefour, frequently offers part-time roles for cashiers, stock clerks, and customer service representatives. Flexible hours make it a popular choice for students. |
McDonald’s |
McDonald’s operates widely across France and hires part-time employees for various roles, including kitchen staff and front-of-house service. The company is known for offering shift-based work suitable for students. |
Decathlon |
A major sports goods retailer, Decathlon, often seeks part-time staff for customer service, sales, and inventory management. They also offer employee discounts, making it an attractive option for sports enthusiasts. |
Leclerc |
Another large supermarket chain, Leclerc, provides numerous part-time positions, including cashier and stock associate roles. They are known for hiring students and providing flexible working hours. |
La Poste |
France’s postal service, La Poste, offers part-time roles in mail handling, sorting, and delivery, particularly during peak seasons like holidays, making it ideal for those seeking temporary work. |
Auchan |
A large hypermarket chain, Auchan, regularly hires part-time workers for positions in cashiering, stocking, and customer service. They are known for offering shifts that accommodate student schedules. |
IKEA |
IKEA stores in France often offer part-time roles in customer service, sales, and logistics. With flexible working hours, it’s an ideal place for students and those looking to balance work and personal commitments. |
Average Part-Time Job Salary in France
The average salary from a part-time job in France ranges between EUR 750 (INR 68,110) and EUR 1,050 (INR 95,350) per month. Whether you're a student or a working professional, there are plenty of part-time opportunities across various industries.
Here's a list of popular part-time jobs and their approximate hourly pay to help you find the right fit.
Part-Time Jobs |
Average Hourly Pay |
---|---|
Retail Assistant |
EUR 11 (INR 990) |
Waiter/Waitress |
EUR 12 (INR 1,080) |
Tutoring/Teaching English |
EUR 20 (INR 1,810) |
Babysitting |
EUR 11 (INR 990) |
Delivery Driver/Rider |
EUR 10 (INR 910) |
Event Staff |
EUR 15 (INR 1,360) |
Supermarket Cashier |
EUR 13 (INR 1,180) |
Library Assistant |
EUR 10 (INR 910) |
Freelance Digital Jobs |
EUR 27 (INR 2,450) |
Tour Guide |
EUR 18 (INR 1,630) |
Private Tutor |
EUR 24 (INR 2,170) |
Uber Driver |
EUR 19 (INR 1,720) |
Barista |
EUR 10 (INR 910) |
Dog Walker |
EUR 8 (INR 730) |
Translator |
EUR 21 (INR 1,910) |
Salesman |
EUR 15 (INR 1,360) |
Museum Jobs |
EUR 10 (INR 910) |
How to Find Part-Time Jobs in France
Finding part-time jobs can be time consuming, but it can be achieved through a combination of online job boards, university resources and local networking. Finding the right part-time job can help you support yourself and meet your requirements, while studying abroad. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you in the process:
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Check for Visa Eligibility: Most of the student visas allow you to work 964 hours annually, however this may vary depending on the course.
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Online Job Boards: Popular online portals like Pole Emploi, LeBonCoin, Indeed France often list part-time roles available. LinkedIn can also be a valuable source of information for part-time jobs, especially in urban areas.
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University Resources: Universities provide job boards, workshops, and guidance designed to help international students seeking part-time jobs.
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Local Networking: Explore local businesses for available job roles, which often hire part-time employees.
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Join Communities: Engage in communities and local clubs, which could be a valuable source of information for potential job leads.
Online Platform To Find Part-Time Jobs in France
Many online portals, apps, and websites are available to assist you in finding the perfect part-time job. Several reliable websites, such as Indeed France, Pole Emploi, and LeBonCoinoffer a variety of job listings across different industries. Below is a list of top online sites where you can find part-time work opportunities in France.
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Indeed France: One of the most popular job search engines, Indeed France offers a vast selection of part-time job listings across various industries, including retail, hospitality, and administration.
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Le Bon Coin: Known for classified ads, Le Bon Coin is a go-to platform for finding part-time job opportunities in smaller businesses, as well as freelance and temporary work.
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StudentJob France: Specifically designed for students, StudentJob France offers part-time and internship opportunities tailored for those still in school. It's a great resource for international students.
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Pôle Emploi: France’s national employment agency, Pôle Emploi, provides a dedicated section for part-time jobs. This platform is reliable for finding roles across the country.
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LinkedIn: LinkedIn is widely used in France for professional networking and job hunting. You can find part-time job listings from companies and recruiters actively looking for part-time or temporary staff.
Rules and Regulations for Student Work in France
International students studying outside of the EU are permitted to work up to 964 hours a year, earning a minimum wage stated by the government. This helps the students gain valuable knowledge and work experience to the students. However a list of rules and regulations need to be maintained to work in France:
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You are permitted to work 472 work hours if you are enrolled in a 6-month program.
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Your work schedule should not conflict with your academic schedule or the university's curriculum.
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For overseas students working part-time in France, the minimum hourly pay is around EUR 7.61 (INR 680). As a result, part-time employment can help them earn up to EUR 7,900 (INR 7,10,380) annually.
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In addition, a student attending a French university may find work. Universities often offer international students a one-year contract that runs from September 1 to August 31.
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Students may work up to 670 hours between September 1 and June 30. Contrarily, 300 hours might be worked full-time between July 1 and August 31.
Impact of Part-Time Jobs on Student Visa and Academics
Part-time jobs can have both positive and negative impacts on student visas and academics. It is important to check both sides before taking on a part-time job role, as it is key to maintain a work-study balance as an international student. Let us discuss some effects of part-time jobs on a student visa and academics:
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Student Visa Implications: it is important to check the specific regulations for part-time work on your France student visa, while also being aware of the working hours of the job.
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Visa Restrictions: It is important to understand any restrictions on the working hours implied as a part of your visa. For instance, the working hours permissible by a visa for a 6-month program and a year-long program are different.
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Academic Implications: You must keep track of the academic responsibilities, as bad academic results jeopardize the visa status of international students.
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Financial Support: Part-time jobs can provide essential financial support for living expenses and tuition fees.
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Set Boundaries: To work part-time jobs, you must establish clear boundaries between work and academic responsibilities.
Tips for Balancing Work and Study in France
Balancing study and work in France requires effective time management, prioritisation, and self-discipline. Here are some tips to help you achieve a healthy balance:
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Time Management: To balance work and studies in France as an international student. You can plan your day, week, and month to effectively track and utilise your time.
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Study Habits: Define your academic objectives and create a plan to achieve them. You can also create deadlines to keep track of your academic progress.
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Work-Life Balance: You should pick out a proper part-time job that offers flexible hours that accommodate your academic schedule.
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Take Regular Breaks: It is important to take breaks to avoid burnout and maintain productivity.
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Self-Care: It is important to prioritise physical and mental well-being through exercise, breaks, and managing stress using effective techniques.
From the Desk of Yocket
Well, that is everything about studying and working part-time in France. The advantages alone are sufficient to motivate you to take up a job while studying there. However, always be mindful of the eligibility criteria, rules, and regulations aligned with working abroad. Violating them could lead to serious repercussions. Hopefully, this blog resolved all your queries regarding the wages, locations, and types of part-time jobs available in France for international students.
If not, unveil the several Yocket Premium services by getting in touch with our Yocket experts. From finding the right university and course based on your profile to debriefing you on the costs involved and the scope of finding part-time jobs, we are here to help.