Studying abroad is exciting, but it also comes with one big question: how do I support myself while living there? For many international students in Ireland, part-time jobs are the answer. They not only provide extra income but also give you valuable work experience and help you connect with local life.
Ireland is one of the most welcoming countries for students, and the good news is, you can legally work while you study. But before you dive into the world of job hunting, it’s important to understand the rules, the types of jobs available, and how to actually land a position that suits your schedule.
Can international students work in Ireland?
Yes ✅, students from non-EU/EEA countries with a valid Stamp 2 visa can work part-time during their studies. Here’s what the rules usually look like:
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You can work 20 hours per week during the semester.
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You can work 40 hours per week during holiday periods (June, July, August, and 15 Dec–15 Jan).
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You don’t need a separate work permit if you are a full-time student with an approved course.
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You must be registered with GNIB/IRP (Irish Residence Permit).
So, the short answer is: yes, you can work, but with certain limits.
Why working in Ireland is a good idea for students
Working part-time while studying in Ireland is not just about the money. Of course, extra cash helps with rent, groceries, or even saving up for a trip around Europe. But there are also other benefits:
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Work experience: Employers in Ireland like to see local experience on your CV.
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Improved English: Daily conversations at work can boost your communication skills.
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Networking: Meeting people through work can open future opportunities.
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Confidence: Working in a new culture helps you become independent and adaptable.
Most common jobs for international students in Ireland
Not every job will fit perfectly with your schedule, so students usually choose flexible part-time roles. Here are some of the most popular ones:
| Job Type | Average Pay (per hour) | Why It’s Good for Students |
|---|---|---|
| Retail assistant 🛒 | €11 – €13 | Flexible shifts, customer interaction |
| Barista ☕ | €11 – €14 | Fun environment, tips possible |
| Waiter/Waitress 🍴 | €11 – €15 | Evening shifts, tips add extra income |
| Call center agent 📞 | €12 – €16 | Communication skills, steady hours |
| Delivery driver 🚴 | €11 – €14 + tips | Flexible timings, physical activity |
| Babysitting 👶 | €12 – €18 | Great for students who like kids |
| University jobs 🎓 | €12 – €20 | On-campus, very student-friendly |
| Internships 💼 | Varies (sometimes unpaid, sometimes €14–€18) | Career-related experience |
How much can students earn in Ireland?
Ireland has one of the highest minimum wages in Europe. As of 2025, the minimum wage is €12.70 per hour.
If a student works the maximum allowed hours:
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During the semester (20 hours × €12.70 × 4 weeks) ≈ €1,016/month
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During holidays (40 hours × €12.70 × 4 weeks) ≈ €2,032/month
Of course, this doesn’t include tips (which can be a nice bonus in cafes and restaurants).
Best cities in Ireland for student jobs
Some cities have more opportunities than others, depending on where your university is located.
| City | Why it’s good for jobs |
|---|---|
| Dublin | Capital city, highest number of jobs but also higher cost of living |
| Cork | Growing tech hub, lots of retail and hospitality work |
| Galway | Student-friendly, strong tourism industry |
| Limerick | Many industrial and retail jobs |
| Waterford | Smaller city but good for part-time service jobs |
Tips for finding a job quickly in Ireland
Finding a job as a student can be competitive, especially in big cities. Here are some practical tips:
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Prepare a simple CV: Irish employers like short, to-the-point CVs (1–2 pages).
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Register on job sites: Websites like Indeed.ie, Jobs.ie, and IrishJobs.ie are popular.
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Check university notice boards: Many campuses advertise part-time jobs.
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Walk around with your CV: For cafes, restaurants, and retail stores, sometimes handing in your CV directly works best.
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Use social media groups: Many local Facebook groups post part-time job opportunities.
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Be flexible: Night shifts, weekends, or seasonal jobs are often easier to get.
Balancing work and study
One mistake some students make is focusing too much on work and letting studies suffer. Remember, the main purpose of your stay is your education 🎓.
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Choose shifts that don’t clash with lectures.
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Inform your employer that you’re a student (most are understanding).
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Avoid working more than you can handle. Burnout helps no one.
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Use earnings wisely—budget for essentials first.
Student internships in Ireland
Apart from part-time jobs, many international students aim for internships because they directly connect with their field of study.
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Some are unpaid, but many pay around €14–€18 per hour.
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Internships often open doors for Graduate Visas (Stamp 1G), allowing you to stay in Ireland after finishing your degree.
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Tech, finance, and pharmaceuticals are big industries where internships are easier to find.
Challenges international students face in jobs
It’s not always smooth sailing. Students sometimes face:
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High competition in Dublin and Cork.
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Employers asking for previous Irish experience.
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Difficulty in adjusting to work culture.
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Some workplaces may not offer flexible schedules.
The key is patience. It might take a few weeks to land your first job, but once you do, things usually get easier.
Future opportunities after graduation
One of the biggest advantages of studying in Ireland is the Graduate Route Visa. After finishing your course, you can stay for:
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12 months if you completed an undergraduate degree.
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24 months if you completed a master’s or PhD.
This gives you time to find a full-time job in your field and possibly switch to a work permit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can international students in Ireland work full-time?
Only during official holiday periods (June–August and mid-December to mid-January). Otherwise, the limit is 20 hours per week.
2. Do students need a PPS number to work?
Yes, a PPS number (Personal Public Service number) is required for any job in Ireland.
3. Can students send money home while working in Ireland?
Yes, many students do. However, you should budget carefully, as living costs in Ireland are high.
4. How easy is it to find a job in Ireland as a student?
It depends on the city. Dublin and Cork have more opportunities but also more competition. Smaller towns may have fewer jobs, but sometimes less competition too.
5. Do students pay taxes in Ireland?
Yes, but if your income is below a certain amount, you may get a tax refund.
Final thoughts
Jobs in Ireland for international students are not only possible but also a great way to make your student journey more rewarding. The key is balance—earn money, gain experience, but don’t forget why you’re in Ireland in the first place: your education and future career.
Whether you’re serving coffee in a Dublin café ☕, helping in a Galway shop 🛒, or interning at a tech company in Cork 💻, every job adds something valuable to your journey.
