So, you’ve decided to pack your bags and take the leap to Emerald Island? What a perfect choice! But, wait… it’s not just a matter of making the decision and going, is it? Well no. But, if you’ve been dreaming of studying and working in Ireland, we’re here to help you out!
In this article, we’ll take you to step by step through everything you need to do and know. So take note, sit back and be ready! After you’ve read this you’ll be so close to making your dream a reality it will be unreal! Ready?
5 Reasons for Studying and Working in Ireland
Yes, you already know Ireland is the best choice. So, maybe you don’t need to know any more reasons for studying and working in Ireland. Still, these facts might be useful to steel your determination. Or, to assuage some of the doubts you might still be having.
High standards for the educational system
Don’t let its size fool you! Although it is a small island, Ireland has enormous educational potential! For example, Dublin, known as the student capital of Ireland, has three major colleges: Trinity College, University College Dublin, and Dublin City University. But, throughout the country, you’ll find another four universities among QS’ top University Rankings.
Quality of life
Ireland is one of the countries with the highest minimum wage in Europe (€ 10.20 per hour in 2021). On the other hand, it also has several job opportunities. Tech giants like Google, Facebook, and LinkedIn have settled on this rainy island.
Besides this, it is one of the safest countries in the world. According to the Global Peace Index for 2020, the country ranks 12th out of 163 included in this indicator. So if you want to study and work in Ireland, this is the perfect time to do it.
Beer and whiskey traditions
While studying and working in Ireland, you will also get the chance to become an expert on beer and whiskey. Quite the mix, isn’t it? On one hand, the Irish love beer so much, they say that Temple Bar has more pubs than all of Norway<.
On the other hand, this is the land that gave whiskey its name. Heard otherwise? Well yes, that’s because whisky is from Scotland. But the word originated in Ireland and here it has developed its own tradition and history. Irish coffee, anyone?
Irish gastronomy is from another world
You know it, we know it, everyone knows it: the Irish love potatoes. One of the most representative typical Irish dishes is the boxty. An omelet made with grated potatoes, wheat flour, yeast, milk butter, and egg, then, it is fried in oil.
So is colcannon, mashed potatoes mixed with cabbage and butter. And, let’s not forget the cottage pie. Meatloaf topped with mashed potatoes and cheese, baked to gratin. So, if you love potatoes, even if you’re just mild about them, your palate will be glad to be here!
A land full of legend and myth
To travel to Ireland is to learn more about Celtic culture.In addition to being magical, most Irish locations, keep some of the most important Irish legends and mythologies. For example, Malahide Castle, near Dublin. Legend has it that in the 15th century, Richar Talbot, an Irish earl, entrusted a man with the care of his daughter. One night, the young woman was attacked and died in strange circumstances.
Even though the caretaker was not in charge at the time, he was sentenced to the gallows. From that day on, the spirit roams the castle and its surroundings in search of justice. So if you are going to Malahide, avoid walking alone. Lest you come across this famous Irish ghost.
Furthermore, you can visit hundreds of Celtic ceremonial places. Spots like Newgrange and Glendalough where the magic still lives. Care to dance with the fairies?
Steps for Studying and Working in Ireland
So, now we’re more than convinced that Ireland is the place to go. Now, it is time to find out just what needs to be done to move to the Emerald Island
- First and foremost, you must select the city where you will be studying and working. Before you simply say Dublin, consider all the other options. For example, Cork is the second most important city in Ireland. Then there’s Belfast, where the Titanic was built. Or Limerick, a city founded by the Vikings themselves. If you’d like to know more about Irish cities, check out our article about them here!
- Then,you must have either the job offer or contract or the course enrollment proof.
- With those documents in hand, you can request a visa. Remember to go for the one that best adjusts your stay. Later we will detail the visas so you can select the best choice for you.
- Get to Ireland. Duh! Just don’t forget to have all your documents ready in hand. Immigration services will ask you all about your reasons for being in the country.
- Enjoy your stay! See all the wonderful things there are to see and share unforgettable moments.
Types of Visas for Studying and Working in Ireland
A promise is a promise, the time has come to explain the visas available for studying and working in Ireland. Keep in mind that the process will depend on your nationality and purpose. Sounds complex, doesn’t it? Actually, it’s quite easy to figure out the visa you need. And, if you still have doubts or simply can’t be bothered with all the paperwork, never worry! That’s what we’re here for. Get in touch and we’ll take care of the rest 😉
European citizen? Here’s what you need to do
If you are a citizen of the European Union, the European Economic Area, or Swiss, you don’t need a visa. You just have to present your ID card. And that’s not even the best part! You have equal conditions to study, work, and live as any Irishman would.
What if you aren’t a European citizen
The first thing you should do is check if you need an Irish visa because of your nationality. If so, the type of visa will depend on the time you will spend in the country. The classification is less than three months and more than three months.
Visas for less than three months
You can apply for this type of visa if you go as a tourist, to visit family or friends. Also, if you are attending an academic or sporting event, a job interview, or taking an exam. If you are getting a medical exam or getting married, you can also get this one.
If you’ll be studying a short course, remember that before requesting your visa you must enroll in a certified institution. The course must be recognized by the authorities with a duration equal to or less than 90 days. Then, you can apply for a Short Term Study Visa (type C).
Now, if you are going to work in Ireland for three months, you must apply for an immigration permit. And, after you get it, you can apply for what is known as an Employment Visa. Meanwhile, the tourist visa (type C) does not entitle you to work or access public services.
Visas to stay over three months
You’ll need this visa if you’ll be studying and working in Ireland for more than three months. It is known as a Long Stay Visa (type D). It is usually requested for undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral studies.
Like type C visas, you must enroll in one of your courses of interest before applying. But, this must be within the PLEP (Provisional List of Eligible Programs). Otherwise, your request will likely be denied. So we recommend that you review it in detail.
On the other hand, if you want to study and work at the same time, there are different options. One of them is tamp 2, which is ideal for you if you are going to take a course that lasts at least 25 weeks.
By obtaining it, you will be able to work 20 hours a week if you are studying and 40 hours a week if you are on vacation.
In addition to this visa, there is the Working Holiday Visa. What is the difference between the two? With this type of visa, you can be in Ireland for one year; six months to study and the rest to work in Ireland. But beware! It does not apply to all nationalities. So, check if your country is on the list first!
Courses in Ireland
The Irish education system is made up of three cycles of education. The first is mandatory and ranges from 6 to 16 years of age. The second cycle, known as upper secondary, is free and not compulsory, it also lasts two years and seeks to provide the basic knowledge to start university studies.
Finally, there is the third cycle that is aimed at university or equivalent studies: technical school programs and teacher colleges. The duration of each program can vary, but the longest is usually the medical degree.
VET Courses
Vocational courses, also called VET (Vocational Education Training) have the aim of reinforcing skills in a specific professional area. Upon completion, you get an official certification. With it, it’ll be easier for you to find a job opportunity in what you like the most. So, if you’re in Ireland for the long run, this is the course for you!
Higher Education
Of course, Bachelor’s and postgraduate degrees are also available in Ireland in universities and institutes. As we mentioned, Irish Universities have been making quite a name for themselves. So, if you study here, your chances of finding a job here or anywhere else in the world increase substantially. We have experience in some of the best colleges in Ireland. Have a look!
How much can you earn working in Ireland?
One of the advantages of working in Ireland is precisely the diversity of salaries you’ll find. As of February 2021, students earned, on average, 20,000 euros a year. Keep in mind, in 2021, the minimum wage is 10.20 euros.
However, if your English level is good. And if you acquire knowledge of one of the most demanded areas in Ireland, your income will be higher.
Studying and Working in Ireland with GrowPro
Now that you know what life is like in Ireland, don’t you just want to catch a plane and start your adventure? Choose one of our experiences and travel to the youngest country in Europe.
Are you worried about all the paperwork? Relax! At GrowPro we advise you on selecting your city of destination. Also, we do the paperwork and we clarify any questions you may have. In other words, we can be your favorite partner to accompany you in the best experiences of your life. Let’s plan together and jump into the ring! What do you think?
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