Who lost hours and who did not
The change hits one group: students in years one and two of a bachelor's, who are now capped at 20 hours a week during term. Third- and fourth-year bachelor's students, master's and PhD students keep 40 hours. Anyone whose study permit was issued before 21 May 2026 stays on the old terms until a permit under the new law is issued.
The budget arithmetic
At the 2026 minimum of ₹750 (€7.05) an hour, 20 hours a week brings in about ₹64,800 (€610) a month before tax. A frugal student in Kaunas spends ₹53,100–69,100 (€500–650) a month, so a steady job can cover most living costs, but nothing is left for tuition of ₹2.7 lakh (€2,500) or more. From January 2027 the hourly minimum rises to ₹810 (€7.61).
The safe plan for an Indian family: arrange the first year's fees and the ₹9.3 lakh (€8,715) proof of funds from India, and treat any part-time income as help with rent and food, not as the way to pay for the degree.
Self-employment is on thin ice
Some students got around hour limits by registering as self-employed couriers. In October 2026 the Interior Minister proposed a ban on self-employment certificates for foreign students. It is a proposal, not law yet, but building your finances on it is a risk.
What keeps the permit safe
- stay within your hour limit during term;
- attend and pass: a permit renewal needs credits, and permits have been withdrawn from students who stopped studying;
- keep payslips and contracts, which help at renewal.
Full rules and a pay table in rupees: work while studying.