Before you arrive: Working in Ireland

If you are from an EU/EEA country, you can work in Ireland without a work permit.
EU/EEA countries are the 25 EU countries and Norway, Liechtenstein and Iceland plus Switzerland.

However, if you are from outside of these areas, you must be registered as a full-time student on a course leading to a recognised qualification in order to work legally in Ireland on a part-time basis i.e. up to twenty hours per week and full-time during holiday periods.

The programmes included on the Department of Education and Science's Internationalisation register of programmes approved by the Minister for Education and Science for the purpose of access to employment by students from outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland. 

PPS Number

To work in Ireland you will require a PPS number.  This is a Personal Public Service Number, which you will require for tax purposes.  Non EU students must register with the Garda National Immigration Office in Liosbaun Industrial Estate before applying for a PPS number.

Applications for a PPS number can be made at the Social Welfare Office, Hynes Building, St Augustine St Galway.  Telephone: 091 500800.  After application, your PPS number should issue by mail within 3-5 working days.

Your will require the following documentation to apply for a PPS number


EU/EEA students

• 2 Forms of identity – e.g. Passport, National Identity Card
• Birth Certificate
• Proof of address (a utility bill in your name and address/bank statement with your name and address/ Letter from NUI Galway including your name and address and stating you are a student of NUI Galway).
  

Non EU/EEA students

• Passport
• Immigration Card (obtained by registering with the Garda National Immigration Bureau)
• Birth Certificate
• Proof of address (e.g. a utility bill in your name and address/bank statement with your name and address/ Letter from NUI Galway including your name and address and stating you are a student of NUI Galway).
  

Non-EEA Graduates - Working in Ireland after Graduation.

Employment of International Graduates in Ireland: Guidelines for Employers and International Students Information Booklet

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