Summary
- Employers require you to provide proof of enrollment, a valid IRP, and a PPS number for employment.
- As an international student, part-time jobs in Ireland can help you manage expenses and interact with the local culture.
- From eligibility to the best jobs available – this article tells you what to expect during your part-time work journey in Ireland.
Do you plan to study in Ireland? Part-time jobs can make a real difference. These jobs help you earn money, meet new people, and understand how things work outside the classroom. Many students work in cafes, shops, or even on campus. It adds a certain charm to your student life.
Ireland allows international students with a Stamp 2 visa to work while they study. You can work up to 20 hours a week during classes. During holidays like summer and Christmas, the hours double, allowing you to earn more.
From eligibility to the best jobs available – this article tells you what to expect during your part-time work journey in Ireland.
Note: If you’re planning to study in Ireland, managing your finances wisely is key — and part-time jobs can definitely help. But to make the most of your study abroad journey, you also need the right university and financial support.
GradRight’s university search platform helps you find Irish universities that not only match your academic goals but also offer good part-time work opportunities and support for international students. The platform uses AI to shortlist programs based on your profile and preferences, making your decision easier and smarter.
Once you’ve found the right university, GradRight’s loan search platform helps you secure education loans from over 15 trusted lenders. You can compare offers, negotiate terms, and even access no-cosigner or no-collateral loans, ensuring your finances are taken care of without hassle.
With this dual support, you can focus on your studies and part-time work while keeping your financial planning solid.
Next, let’s dive into the details of part-time jobs in Ireland and how to make them work for you.
Eligibility for part-time jobs in Ireland for international students
International students in Ireland can work part-time alongside pursuing their education. This helps them financially and provides work experience.
However, you (the student) may have to adhere to specific rules to work in Ireland legally:
- Course enrollment: You must be enrolled in a full-time course (minimum duration – 1 year). This course has to be listed on the Interim List of Eligible Programmes (ILEP).
- Visa Status: You must hold a valid Stamp 2 visa. A Stamp 2 visa allows students to engage in casual employment.
- Age requirement:You Must be at least 18 years of age.
- Registration: You are required to register with the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB). They must also obtain an Irish Residence Permit (IRP).
- PPS number: A Personal Public Service (PPS) number is essential for employment and tax purposes.
Working hours:
- During term: You are permitted to work up to 20 hours per week.
- During holidays: From June to September, and between December 15 to January 15, students are permitted to work up to 40 hours per week.
Importance points to note:
- If you are not enrolled in courses under the ILEP, you are not permitted to work.
- If you hold a Stamp 2A visa you are not allowed to work.
Additionally, students are to comply with Irish employment laws, tax obligations, and labour rights. Employers require you to provide proof of enrollment, a valid IRP, and a PPS number for employment.
How to find part high-paying part-time jobs in Ireland for international students
As an international student, part-time jobs in Ireland can help you manage expenses and interact with the local culture. Many students pick-up roles in retail, hospitality, customer service, on-campus positions, delivery services, tutoring, and warehouse work. While prior experience is helpful, it’s not mandatory. Employers value enthusiasm, reliability, and a willingness to learn and grow.
So, how do you find part-time jobs in Ireland? Below are some tried-and-tested methods:
- University career cell: Most Irish universities have career cells to assist students with placements. They host job fairs, and workshops, and share job listings tailored to the needs of students.
- Online search: Websites like Indeed.ie, Jobs.ie, and IrishJobs.ie list numerous part-time opportunities. You can set up job alerts with filters to keep you informed.
- Networking: Apart from university-held events and student clubs, being connected with local peers can give you an extra edge. Word of mouth and personal recommendations fill a lot of positions.
- Local advertisements: Newspapers, and community bulletin boards often list openings that are not advertised online. You may also visit local businesses personally to discover the latest job openings.
- Recruitment agencies: Agencies like Brightwater and Manpower Ireland specialize in placing students in part-time roles. Informing them about your requirements may help them find positions that fit your schedule.
To improve your chances, update your resume. It should highlight relevant skills and experience. You may want to tailor your application to each job as that shows genuine interest.
What laws apply to international students for working while studying in Ireland?
As an international student in Ireland you must adhere to specific employment laws. These laws protect students’ rights in the workplace. They also make sure you are treated fairly.
Employment regulations to take note of:
- Employment contracts: Employers provide a written statement of employment terms within five days of starting work. This includes details such as employer and employee names, job descriptions, pay, and working hours.
- Working hours: Students with Stamp 2 immigration permission can work up to 20 hours per week during the term. Holiday periods are a different story – you may work up to 40 hours a week.
- Minimum wage: As of January 1, 2025, the national wage in Ireland is €13.50 per hour for employees aged 20 and over. Younger workers receive proportionally lower rates.
- Self-employment restrictions: International students are not permitted to engage in self-employment or start their businesses while on a student visa.
- Tax obligations: A PPS (Personal Public Service) number is essential in order to be legally employed and paid. This number allows you to access social services and fulfill tax obligations.
International students In Ireland who work part-time are subject to the same tax rules as Irish residents. Here is a breakdown:
PPS number (Personal Public Service number):
- Unique identification number for accessing public services and is mandatory for legal employment.
- You need it before your employer can pay you or deduct taxes.
- Apply through the local PPS allocation center with proof of identity, address, and a job letter.
Income Tax(PAYE – Pay As You Earn):
- Employers deduct tax directly from the wages under the PAYE system.
- You may pay Income Tax, Universal Social Charge (USC), and Pay Related Social Insurance (PRSI) based on your earnings.
Tax credits and standard rate cut-off:
- Once you start working, you must register your job with Revenue using the ‘myAccount’ portal.
- If you fail to register, you will be placed on emergency tax, which deducts more than usual from your pay.
- You can claim tax credits like the Employee Tax Credit and Personal Tax Credit to reduce your liability.
Other deductions like the Universal Social Charge (USC) and PRSI (Pay Related Social Insurance) are applicable only if your income exceeds a certain limit. It is important to:
- Keep track of payslips and contracts.
- Ensure your employer registers your employment with Revenue.
- Stay under the legal working hours allowed on a Stamp 2 visa.
This ensures your work remains legal, and you avoid overpaying tax.
Popular part-time jobs for international students in Ireland
Ireland provides a range of part-time jobs for Indian and other international students. These span across various sectors, each with their own set of responsibilities and pay scales.
Below is an overview of the best part-time jobs in Ireland available to students, along with their estimated hourly wages. It also lists part-time jobs in Ireland for students with limited work hours.
| Popular part-time jobs in Ireland | ||
|---|---|---|
| Sector | Student Job Roles in Ireland | Estimated Hourly Salary (€) |
| Retail | Supermarket staff, shop assistants | €11 – €14 |
| Hospitality | Waitstaff, baristas, kitchen assistants | €11 – €14 |
| Customer Service | Call center agents, receptionists | €12 – €16 |
| On-Campus Jobs | Library assistants, research assistants | €12 – €18 |
| Delivery Services | Food or parcel delivery drivers | €11 – €16 + tips |
| Tutoring | Private tutors, language teachers | €15 – €25 |
| Warehouse & Logistics | Packing, stocking, general labor | €11 – €14 |
These roles not only provide financial benefits but also help you develop manifold skills like communication, time management, and teamwork.
Things to remember when searching for part-time work opportunities in Ireland
To ensure a smooth and lawful experience, it is important to understand the requirements for part-time jobs in the country:
- Irish bank account: You need to open an Irish bank account, as employers require one to deposit your wages.
- Visa and course eligibility: Confirm that you have a Stamp 2 visa. A Stamp 2 visa permits you to work part-time. Ensure that the ILEP (Interim List of Programmes) lists your course.
- PPS number: You must obtain a Personal Public Service number for legal employment and tax purposes.
- Employment Rights: Familiarize yourself with your rights. This includes a written contract, entitlement to breaks, and being paid at least the minimum wage.
- Balance work and study: Prioritize academic commitments. Overworking may lead to visa violations.
- Financial Planning: The role of part-time work in Ireland is to supplement your finances. Hence ensure you have adequate funds to cover the educational and living costs.
Laws applicable to international students working part-time jobs in Ireland
International students working part-time jobs in Ireland need to adhere to employment laws. This ensures legal compliance and protects their rights:
- Employers provide a written contract to the employee. This contract should detail wages, work hours, and responsibilities. This should be given within 5 days of starting employment.
- Students are permitted to work for 20 hours/week during term and 40/week during holidays. Overworking may cause visa violations.
- The minimum wage in Ireland is €13.50/hour for workers aged 20 and over. The same holds for part-time jobs for international students.
- Students must obtain a PPS number and ensure that their employer deducts the appropriate taxes through the PAYE system.
Adhering to the laws safeguards your rights as a worker in Ireland. Always seek guidance from the university support services when required. Maintain fluent communication with your employer to ensure compliance.
FAQs
1. How much can an international student earn in Ireland part-time?
Students usually earn between €11 and €16 per hour, depending on the job and sector.
2. Is it easy to get a part-time job in Ireland for international students?
Jobs are available, but competition is high, so early and active searching helps.
3. Is it easy to get a part-time job in Ireland for international students?
Yes, only during official holidays like summer and Christmas breaks.
4. Which city has the most part-time jobs in Ireland?
Dublin offers the highest number of part-time job opportunities.
5. What is the highest-paid part-time job in Ireland for international students?
Tutoring and research assistant roles often pay the most, up to €25 per hour.