Regardless of your future career plan, studying in Switzerland will definitely your ultimate opportunity to get accessed to the world’s leading education provider. Even though you’ll study in top-ranked universities, Switzerland is also one of the top 20 wealthiest and safest countries in all of Europe. Money is a thing.

Once accepted to any educational institute in Switzerland, the next step is to apply for a student visa and get ready to come to Switzerland. While preparing, perhaps you are wondering, “Can international students work in Switzerland?”

This article will provide you with the information you need. Stay tuned!

Can international students work part-time while studying in Switzerland?

Countries like the U.S do not allow international students to work part-time while studying. But the good news for international students in Switzerland is that you do have the right to work part-time here.

However, keep in mind that non-EU/EFTA international students can only work after they’ve studied for six months. In particular, the employers will have to apply for the work permit on the behalves of non-EU/EFTA students so that they can start working.

Once the work permit is granted, international students can work up to 15 hours per week and full-time during vacations. This is quite similar to international students in Australia, where they can work up to 20 hours per fortnight and full-time during semester break.

What job can I do while studying in Switzerland?

Tutors / TAs

You can be a private tutor to earn some extra money. This can be a good source of income for international students. Because Switzerland is a very diverse land, students can even teach foreign languages to those in need.

Babysitting

This job is particularly popular for students of all ages; you can earn an average of €11 per hour.

Babysitting is a very popular and relatively easy-to-find job, especially if you live in big and prosperous cities like Zug, Switzerland.

Join online surveys

If you do not care about polishing your CV, then joining online surveys can be an option.

You can make money by participating in online surveys; This job is always in demand since businesses and organisations need people to share their opinion for improvements. However, it doesn’t guarantee a fixed income and is somewhat daunting.

Waiter/Waitress

This job is probably the to-go option for anyone who studied or has been studying abroad. Being a waiter/waitress is very fun due to the job’s nature. You’ll have an opportunity to meet lots of people and even make new friends when studying in Switzerland. Moreover, you can choose the work schedule that fits your study, which is a plus.

Courier

If you live in big cities, you can always make extra money with your bike. You will have a flexible working schedule as a courier!

Work for your school

In addition to the jobs above, you can also work for the university/institute you are attending. Most universities in Switzerland need a team of students to support their administrative work, admission and management. You can also have the chance to become a full-time employee at your school after graduation.

In conclusion

The experience gained while working part-time in the country you’re studying is extremely valuable, especially in Switzerland, a safe and diverse country with many job opportunities. 

Working part-time is also the best way to learn more about the local culture while earning pocket money and improving your language skills, making new friends, expanding your network; and more importantly, learn things that you’ll never learn from just reading textbooks.

The Swiss Institute of Management and Innovation has policies to support its student who attend full-time study in Switzerland financially.

Source: The Swiss Institute of Management and Innovation