Working
in Ireland
A practical guide to work permission, finding a job, pay, PPS numbers, tax and preparing your CV.
Always check the conditions printed on your current immigration permission before accepting employment.
Check your conditions before you apply
Your Irish Residence Permit and permission conditions decide whether you may work. If the wording on your permission differs from this summary, follow the conditions attached to your permission and confirm them with Immigration Service Delivery.
Stamp 2
- Up to 20 hours per week during school term
- Up to 40 hours per week during June–September and 15 December–15 January
- Your work must remain secondary to your studies
- You must not operate a business or work as self-employed
Stamp 2A
- Do not accept paid work on Stamp 2A
- Check your current IRP card and permission letter
- Ask Student Welfare if you are unsure where to verify your conditions
Where to start your search
Online job boards generally offer the widest choice of full-time and part-time vacancies. Local business windows, noticeboards, recommendations and community networks can also be useful.
Always read the complete job description and check that the experience, shift pattern and working hours suit your permission and class schedule.
Before you apply
- Check the experience and qualifications requested
- Make sure every shift fits your permitted working hours
- Confirm whether pay is weekly, fortnightly or monthly
- Ask what identification and payroll documents are required
- Check whether an Irish bank account is needed for payment
- Keep your contact details and availability up to date
Know the basic protections at work
Under 18
Age 18
Age 19
Age 20+
Your employer should provide
- Written core terms of employment within five days of starting
- A written statement covering the remaining employment terms
- At least the applicable minimum rate of pay
- A payslip showing gross pay and each deduction with every payment
Three steps before your first payslip
Apply for a PPS Number
Request Emerald Documents
Register Your First Job
Prepare a clear application in English
Your CV should include
- Your name and current contact details
- A short profile tailored to the role
- Relevant employment history and responsibilities
- Education, qualifications and language skills
- Accurate dates and consistent formatting
- References or “references available on request”
Emerald seminars and support
Emerald runs regular CV and interview-preparation seminars. Check the Social Programme noticeboard or ask Student Welfare when the next session is scheduled.
The team can also give practical guidance as you prepare your English-language CV.
Still unsure what you need?
Student Welfare can help you find the right ECI document or point you toward the appropriate official service.