Employment Opportunities
In 2013-14 the Irish economy has bounced back after a few years in recession. However, throughout this period the country remained a destination of choice both for employers, looking for a business-friendly and low tax environment, and jobseekers who want to experience Ireland’s unique culture and lifestyle (and salaries well above the EU average!) As the country has become increasingly international in outlook, there are particularly good opportunities for office support staff with language skills and exposure to foreign cultures.
Political
The island of Ireland is divided between the Republic of Ireland, whose capital city is Dublin, and the six counties of Northern Ireland, whose capital city is Belfast.
Population
The population of Ireland is approximately 6,150,000, of whom 4.6 million live in the Republic. Over 40% of the population resides within 100 km of Dublin. In recent years Ireland has become more multicultural. Polish people have made up the largest number of immigrants (over 150,000) but you will meet people from all over Europe and beyond.
Languages
The Republic has two official languages: Gaeilge (Irish) and English, which is the first language of 95% of the population. In fact, some would argue that the best English is spoken in Ireland – and Dublin is home to many international language schools! In Northern Ireland you may also encounter a dialect, Ulster Scots.
Currency
The currency in the Republic of Ireland is the Euro and in Northern Ireland it is the Pound Sterling.
Accommodation
Short term
Hotels in Ireland have an average room price of approximately €80 per night. In addition to the major chains there is also a variety of smaller, individually owned hotels, B&Bs and youth hostels available at competitive prices:
Long term
You will find a wide range of furnished and unfurnished accommodation on offer in Ireland, from houses and apartments to smaller studios and flats. Generally speaking you will find it easy to secure accommodation that suits your budget though prices are high in central Dublin compared to the rest of the country. See the following websites for a range of accommodation:
Transport
If you work in one of Ireland’s major cities you will probably rely on public transport to get to work. Dublin’s suburbs are well served by buses, trams (Luas) as well as the DART suburban railway. You will find more information about public transport and other options such as cycling at the Transport for Ireland website.
Visas, Permits & Tax
Work & Residence Permits
If you are a national from a European Economic Area (EEA country) you do not require a visa, although you are required to apply to your local Garda (police) station for a residence permit if you plan to stay longer than three months.
If you are a non-EEA national and intend to work in Ireland you will need both a work permit and a residence permit (issued simultaneously for the same duration). There are some exceptions to this rule; please see www.entemp.ie/labour/workpermits for further details.
Applications for work permits must be made by your prospective employer to the Work Permits Section of the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment in Dublin and must be submitted before your arrival in Ireland.
Tax & Social Services
Before you start working in Ireland, it’s essential that you get a Personal Public Service (PPS) number, which will register and identify you on the tax system. To obtain your PPS number you will need to visit your local Social Welfare branch and take with you proof of your address. You will also need identification. www.welfare.ie
Employees in Ireland pay tax through the PAYE (Pay As You Earn) system. This means that your employer deducts the tax you owe directly from your wages, and pays this tax directly to the Revenue Commissioners. The amount of tax you pay depends on a variety of factors including your marital status, whether you have children, and whether you are in rented accommodation. (For more information about taxation in Ireland visit www.revenue.ie).
Once you have a PPS number you will need to apply for a Tax Clearance Certificate. The best way to do this is either to download the form from the website or go to a local Revenue office and pick one up. A Tax Clearance Certificate will ensure that you are taxed at the correct rate.
If your earnings have been relatively low you may be entitled to a tax rebate before you leave Ireland. To claim this you will need a P60 (outlining your exact salary and tax details) and/or a P45 form (which you get when you leave a job).
Banks
If you find employment in Ireland (and you want to get paid!) you will need a bank account. To open one you must provide two forms of identification (including one with a photograph, such as a passport) plus proof of residence in Ireland (e.g. a recent electricity or gas bill). Major retail banks in the Republic of Ireland include:
- Ulster Bank
- Permanent TSB
- AIB
- Bank of Ireland
