This is an important question! The ability to freelance or run an online business while on a student visa depends on the country’s specific visa rules. Here’s a general overview for the most popular study destinations:

United Kingdom (UK)

- Student visa holders (Tier 4 or Student Route) are NOT permitted to be self-employed or engage in business activity, which includes freelancing, running an online business, or working as an independent contractor.
- You are only allowed to work for an employer (part-time, up to 20 hours per week during term time, and full-time during vacations).

United States (USA)

- F-1 visa holders cannot engage in self-employment, freelancing, or running a business.
- You may only work on-campus or in specific off-campus jobs authorized by your university (such as CPT or OPT, which have strict rules).

Canada

- Study permit holders may work part-time (up to 20 hours/week during academic sessions), but freelancing or self-employment is generally not allowed unless you have a valid work permit that allows it. Working for an employer is permitted.

Australia

- Student visa holders (subclass 500) are allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time.
- Self-employment, freelancing, and running an online business are technically permitted as long as you have an Australian Business Number (ABN) and comply with tax laws. However, you must adhere to the 48-hour work limit, and your primary purpose in Australia must remain study.

Other Countries

- Rules vary, but most countries restrict student visa holders from self-employment or business activities.

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Recommendation

- Always check the specific visa conditions of your destination country.
- Violating visa rules can lead to cancellation of your visa and impact your future immigration prospects.

If you want tailored guidance for a specific country or have questions about part-time work opportunities, feel free to ask!
You can also book a counselling session with Pollster Education for personalized advice: