More than 60% of international students in Ireland work part-time jobs to manage living expenses and gain valuable work experience. For many Indian students, part-time employment provides not only financial support but professional and cultural exposure, offering insights into everyday life in Ireland.
Students can choose from a wide range of roles, including work in cafés, tutoring or delivery services. Before applying, it is important to understand the rules, visa requirements, working hours, salary expectations, legal obligations and how to balance studies with work. This guide outlines what international students need to know about part-time work in Ireland.
Eligibility for Part-Time Jobs in Ireland
Both EU and non-EU international students may work part-time in Ireland, but specific eligibility criteria apply:
EU Students
Can apply for part-time jobs without a student visa
May work up to 20 hours per week during the academic term
May work up to 40 hours per week during holidays
Must provide proof of enrollment
Non-EU students (including Indian students)
Must be enrolled in a full-time course listed in new TrustEd Ireland framework, which is a replacement of Interim List of Eligible Programmes (ILEP)
Require a Stamp 2 Visa
May work up to 20 hours per week during the academic term
May work up to 40 hours per week during official holiday periods (June–September and December –January)
Must hold a Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) card, a PPS (Personal Public Service) number, and a valid immigration stamp
Visa Requirements for Part-Time Work in Ireland
To work legally in Ireland, international students must meet certain visa conditions and hold the required documents.
Non-EU students must meet the following visa requirements to work part-time in Ireland:
Visa type: Stamp 2
Valid passport: Required for work eligibility
Enrollment proof: Full-time course listed in new TrustEd Ireland framework, which is a replacement of ILEP
Maximum hours: 20 hours per week during term time and 40 hours per week during official holidays
Other documents: GNIB card, PPS number, and an Irish bank account
Part-Time Job Rules in Ireland for International Students
International students working part-time in Ireland must follow specific rules to remain compliant with immigration and employment laws:
Age Requirements: Students must be at least 18 years of age to to take on part-time work
Eligibility: Only students with a Stamp 2 Visa and a PPS number are permitted to work part-time
Working Hours: Students may work up to 20 hours per week during term time and up to 40 hours per week during holidays; exceeding these limits can result in visa cancellation
Job Restrictions: Full-time employment is not permitted under a study visa
Minimum Wages: As of January 1, 2025, adult workers earn at least €13.50 per hour; workers under 20 receive a lower rate; all wages must be paid into an Irish bank account
Employer Compliance: Employers must confirm that a student’s visa allows part-time work and comply with government regulations on hours and conditions
Part-Time Working Hours for Students in Ireland
Ireland sets clear limits on the hours international students may work to help them balance study and employment. Universities generally advise students not to exceed these limits:
Students may work up to 20 hours per week during term time
During recognized holiday periods (summer break and public holidays), students may work up to 40 hours per week
Students may work up to 48 hours in a holiday week if their three-month average does not exceed 40 hours
Exceeding these limits can put a student’s visa status at risk.
Benefits of Doing a Part-Time Job in Ireland
If you land a part-time job in Ireland, many benefits can add value to your overall student life, including the following:
Extra Income: Part-time jobs provide financial support for students to manage their day-to-day expenses, as well as cover travel and leisure costs.
Work Experience: You can get exposure to a global work culture and gain practical experience, and the skills you require to help you get jobs easily in the long run.
Flexibility: You can tailor your working hours to balance work and studies.
Skill Development: It can enhance English communication and interpersonal skills.
Networking: Establish professional and local connections that may lead to full-time opportunities.
Cost of Living vs Part-Time Income in Ireland
Part-time work in Ireland can help students cover everyday expenses such as groceries, transport, and utilities. However, income from part-time jobs usually does not cover the full cost of living, particularly rent, which is often the largest expense. Careful budgeting is important for managing student finances.
To work legally in Ireland, international students must have a PPS Number. This unique number tracks taxes, social insurance and benefits.
Tax Credits
All workers including students are eligible for basic tax credits which reduce the amount of income tax deducted from their salaries. Students can apply for these credits through the Revenue Online Service (ROS).
Income Tax, USC & PRSI
Income tax applies to earnings above the tax-free threshold. A small percentage is also deducted for the Universal Social Charge (USC) and Pay-Related Social Insurance (PRSI) supports social benefits and pensions. Employers handle these deductions automatically through payroll.
Workplace Rights & Protections
Safe Working Conditions: Employers are responsible for a safe and healthy work environment, which includes proper training, safety equipment, and emergency procedures.
Payslips: Students must receive a payslip with every payment showing hours worked, gross pay, deductions including tax, USC and PRSI, and net pay
Rest Breaks: Workers are entitled to breaks during shifts. A 15-minute break applies if you work more than 4.5 hours, and a 30-minute break applies if you work more than 6 hours
No Exploitation: Students should not accept “cash-in-hand” jobs. Any form of forced extra hours or underpayment is illegal
Part-time jobs in Ireland allow international students, particularly Indian students, to gain real-life work experience, earn money and support their living expenses. Universities, however, are strict about balancing academics with part-time work.
At Fragomen Educational Services (FES), India’s leading study abroad consultants with 14 branches nationwide, we guide students on all aspects of studying abroad, including admissions and part-time work opportunities in Ireland.
Students seeking professional guidance on studying and working in Ireland can connect with FES to begin planning their international career.
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