Taxes for International Students: Country-by-Country Guide (2026)
If you work part-time during your studies, you'll likely owe income tax — and may be entitled to a refund. Tax rules for international students differ by country and often by your home country's tax treaty. Select your destination country for a detailed guide.
📋 Key Fact: Many international students overpay tax because employers withhold at a standard rate. If your total annual earnings are below the tax-free threshold, you're entitled to a refund — but you must file to claim it.
Tax Basics for International Students
| Country | Tax-Free Threshold | Must File? | Treaty Benefits? |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🇬🇧 UK | £12,570/year | Only if asked | Varies by country |
| 🇩🇪 Germany | €11,784/year | Yes (if working) | Yes (many) |
| 🇦🇺 Australia | A$18,200/year | Yes | Varies |
| 🇨🇦 Canada | C$15,705/year | Yes | Yes (many) |
| 🇺🇸 USA | $0 (must file Form 1040-NR) | Yes | Yes (treaty rates) |
| 🇯🇵 Japan | ¥1,030,000/year | Yes (if working) | Varies |
Choose Your Destination Country
🇧🇪 Belgium
🇨🇾 Cyprus
🇨🇿 Czech Republic
🇬🇭 Ghana
🇬🇷 Greece
🇭🇺 Hungary
🇰🇪 Kenya
🇲🇾 Malaysia
🇲🇹 Malta
🇵🇱 Poland
🇵🇹 Portugal
🇿🇦 South Africa
🇹🇼 Taiwan
🇹🇷 Turkey
🇦🇪 UAE
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
🇺🇸 USA
📋 Free Study Abroad Finance Checklist
Everything you need to set up your finances before you land — bank account, SIM card, forex card & insurance.
🔒 Free 5-page PDF. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.