(Untitled)

[lenorea]

Hi, so I'm an American who will be in England on a student visa, studying full-time. Apparently, I can work 20 hrs a week while classes are in session and full-time during school holidays

Comments

[starskin]

I'm not sure, really, because I entered the country only a few days before my course started. However, I would *imagine* that your visa is valid from the time you enter the country. If the Home Office didn't know, then I assume that means there's no hard and fast rule expressly forbidding you to work before the start of your program.
And don't forget it's going to take time to actually find, apply and interview for jobs. Maybe that's why they'll let you come over early, to let you set yourself up.

Sorry I can't be of more help, but those are my thoughts on the subject. Good luck! :)

[lenorea]

They told me it would be at the discretion of the immigration officers when I landed, so I figured I'd just see what the average experience was like. Thanks!

[flowerpixie3]

you can most likely start work on the first day that your student visa is valid. of course you will need to find a job which may take a bit of time once you are in the country...

[lenorea]

Thanks! That would be good. I've found it really easy to find work on my previous stays in London, so I doubt it'll take long.

[demurelibertine]

I think it all depends on where you are living and what you are willing to do. But I've had a few friends that went over on BUNAC and it took them over a month to find jobs (and this was with locals help). I wouldn't bet on finding a job fast will all the horror stories I've heard - It could happen granted, but you should have extra money in the wings waiting just in case...

[demurelibertine]

hmmm... *will - with

oops!