What is a student permit?

This is a permit that allows a person to enter Malawi and study at an approved educational institution.

Who can apply?

Any foreign national who intends to study or conduct educational research in Malawi.

How and where can I apply for a permit?

Applications can be made by submitting the Student Permit Application Form and supporting documents/information to Immigration Headquarters or Regional Immigration Offices for processing after payment of the applicable fees.

What happens when I apply?

The application will be forwarded to the Chief Immigration Officer for a decision. Once a decision has been made, you will receive an official notification that your application has been approved or rejected.

Can I extend my permit?

A student residence permit can be extended by submitting a student residence permit extension application and supporting documents/information to regional immigration offices or headquarters. The application for extension must be submitted 3 months before the expiry of the permit (validity period).

—

Can I combine study and work in Malawi?

Many university and college programs around the world allow students to work part-time, typically 20 hours per week. But in no case is it allowed to work more than 30/35 hours a week. Although the earnings from such a job won't be enough to pay for your studies, it will help support your studies, such as paying your food or travel bills. You can earn some pocket money by working part-time while you study.

The type of job you get depends a lot on your qualifications, previous work experience if you have any and your skills. In addition to money, part-time work also helps you learn in real time; for example, working in the cafeteria or college security, you will meet many new people, learn new dialects and get a chance to interact with the locals.

The part-time option is more suitable for students pursuing graduate or research programs. Opportunities are limited for students enrolled in undergraduate programs or certificate courses lasting several months. Usually, your program director will help you find part-time jobs on campus, such as working in the cafeteria, library, college dining hall, security, laundry, gardening, etc. Candidates with higher qualifications may also be given the opportunity to conduct classes with junior students.

If you stay on campus during the summer break, you can work full-time to earn a little extra money that can be added to next semester's expenses. Also, with weekends free, you can look for work to do during the holidays to earn a little extra money; for example, you can mow the lawn or clean the house. If you know how to drive and have a local driver's license, you can take people on tours and it will be quite exciting. You will enjoy your vacation serving travelers.

You can also find part-time jobs off campus, such as working at a gas station or delivering newspapers, etc. You can find part-time off-campus jobs from local newspapers, classifieds, social media, and more. Senior students and college groups will also help you.

Many colleges and universities provide students with internships as part of their program. Thus, students can earn from internships and continue their studies. When you work for someone part-time, it becomes part of your resume and serves as a good reference when looking for a regular day job. When looking for part-time jobs, preference is given to local candidates, but there are no reservations. Any person can apply for such a job and earn money.

Tips for students/part-time job seekers

Students can look for part-time jobs within their college premises.

Such options are available to students, such as working in the cafeteria, library, support of the administrative department.

Alternatively, you can look for jobs near your college or residence to save time on your commute.

Students can discuss with their peers who are already working and enroll there.

Part-time employment is one of the best options available to students as it provides great experience and financial support.

A few options that students can take advantage of outside of college are working at an amusement park, grocery store, shopping mall, showrooms, restaurants, gas stations, or even working from home, etc.

There are a huge number of opportunities that students can easily take advantage of.