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.