Exchange in Ireland: how to find job openings in 2026?

With the Irish labor market expanding rapidly and policies even more favorable to international students, 2026 is consolidated as a year of historic opportunities for Brazilian exchange students seeking study and work in Ireland. The post-pandemic economic changes, combined with massive investments in technology and tourism, created a unique scenario for those seeking to combine studies with professional experience. In this comprehensive guide, we'll show you exactly how to find the best vacancies, prepare your resume to Irish standards, and stand out in the competitive local job market.

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The Irish job market for international students in 2026

Ireland has established itself as one of the most strategic destinations for international students, not only for its globally recognized quality of education, but also for its excellent job opportunities in diverse sectors. For those seeking Learn a language abroad while gaining professional experience, the country offers the perfect combination. The vibrant economy grew 4.2% in 2025, with multinational companies established in diverse sectors, from technology and pharmaceuticals to hospitality and retail.

Why Ireland is the ideal destination for 2026:

• Fast-growing economy: GDP growing 4.2% per year
• Multicultural and extremely welcoming environment for Brazilians
• Favorable policies for foreign students with visa flexibility
• Possibility to improve English in a real professional environment
• Competitive salaries that surpass most European countries
• Strategic location to explore Europe with low-cost flights
• Established Brazilian community offering support and networking
• Heated technology sector with a shortage of skilled labor

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Updated rules for working during your exchange in 2026

Before starting your job search, it's critical to understand the rules that apply to international students in Ireland in 2026. The Irish government kept the policies favorable and even expanded some possibilities for those who choose the exchange in Ireland:

Work limits per period:

• Academic period: Up to 20 hours per week during the course
• Official school holidays: Up to 40 hours a week full time
• June to September: 40 hours a week (high tourist season)
• December 15 to January 15:40 hours a week (holiday season)

Required mandatory documentation:

• IRP (Irish Residence Permit) card - replaces the old GNIB
• Personal Public Service Number (PPS) - equivalent to the Brazilian CPF
• Stamp 2 in the work permit passport
• Government-recognized proof of enrollment in a course
• Valid international health insurance

These limits are strictly enforced by the Irish authorities through integrated digital systems. Working beyond what is allowed can result in serious problems with your visa, heavy fines, and even deportation with a 5-year ban on returning. Therefore, it is essential to strictly respect the established rules.

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Minimum wage and working conditions in 2026

Ireland offers one of the best minimum salaries in Europe, which was significantly increased in 2026, making the country even more attractive for international students:

Minimum wage by age group in 2026:

• Over 20 years old: €14.10 per hour (approximately R$ 86.00)
• 19 years old: €12.69 per hour (90% of adult salary)
• 18 years old: €11.28 per hour (80% of adult salary)
• Under 18: €9.87 per hour (70% of adult salary)

Working the maximum allowed during the term (20 hours a week), a student can earn approximately €1,128 per month (about R$ 6,880), an amount that is generally sufficient to cover housing, food, and transportation costs, depending on the city chosen. During holidays, working 40 hours a week, earnings can reach €2,256 per month (about R$ 13,760).

Updated taxes and contributions:

Every worker in Ireland is subject to paying taxes, but the system was simplified in 2026:

• PAYE (Pay As You Earn): Progressive Income Tax
• USC (Universal Social Charge): Unified Social Contribution
• PRSI (Pay Related Social Insurance): Mandatory Social Insurance

The excellent news is that students who work part-time generally fall into exemption or low tax brackets. With annual earnings below €18,000, the effective tax rate is around 8-12%, significantly lower than for full-time workers.

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Best sites for job searching in Ireland in 2026

Finding work in Ireland was made much easier with specialized online platforms that were improved in 2025-2026. Check out the main sites for your search:

Main platforms:

• IrishJobs.ie: Ireland's largest job site, with over 15,000 active monthly vacancies
• Indeed.ie: It brings together vacancies from various sources with specific filters for part-time jobs
• LinkedIn: In addition to vacancies, it allows strategic networking with Irish professionals and companies
• Glassdoor.ie: It offers detailed vacancies and real reviews of companies made by employees
• Monster.ie: International platform with several opportunities in Dublin and other cities
• Jobs.ie: Site specialized in vacancies for students and first jobs
• Irishjobs4students.com: New platform focused exclusively on international students

Essential groups and communities:

Aside from these traditional sites, don't underestimate the power of digital networking! There are several specific groups where places are shared daily:

• Facebook: “Brazilians in Ireland” (85,000+ members)
• Facebook: “Jobs for Brazilians in Dublin” (42,000+ members)
• WhatsApp: Groups organized by city and sector
• Discord: Exchange student communities with opportunities channel
• Instagram: Pages specialized in publicizing vacancies for Brazilians

Useful apps for 2026:

Some apps have become essential for those seeking work in Ireland:

• Jobs Ireland: Official Irish government app with real-time notifications
• Job or: Connect candidates directly with recruiters through AI
• Recruit Ireland: Specialized in vacancies for different qualification levels
• MyJobs Ireland: New app with geolocation of nearby vacancies
• Studentwork.ie: Exclusive for students with automatic visa verification

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How to prepare an efficient resume for the Irish market

A good resume is your gateway to the Irish job market. Unlike Brazil, in Ireland the CV (Curriculum Vitae) follows specific and strict standards that must be respected. In 2026, employers are even more demanding with format and content. For those who are starting their exchange program, preparing an appropriate CV is the first step to professional success.

Ideal structure of the Irish CV:

1. Basic personal information:

• Featured full name
• Irish telephone (local number essential)
• Professional email
• Updated LinkedIn link
• Address in Ireland (optional but recommended)

2. Professional profile (Personal Statement):

• Brief summary of 3-4 lines maximum
• Focus on professional skills and objectives
• Avoid clichés and generic phrases
• Adapt for each specific vacancy

3. Education:

• Academic education in reverse chronological order
• Certifications and courses relevant to the vacancy
• Include current course in Ireland
• Mention the equivalence of Brazilian diplomas

4. Work Experience:

• Always in reverse chronological order (most recent first)
• Clear and objective description of responsibilities
• Use action verbs in the past tense
• Include measurable results when possible
• Highlight transferable experiences for the Irish market

5. Skills:

• Specific technical skills
• Language proficiency with levels (A1-C2)
• Software and tools you master
• Relevant interpersonal skills

6. References:

• “References available upon request” (accepted standard)
• OR include 2 professional contacts with prior permission
• Ideally, include an Irish reference if possible

Essential tips for 2026:

• Keep your CV 1-2 pages at most (strictly speaking)
• Adapt it for each specific vacancy - generic CVs are discarded
• Use clear, direct English and avoid verbatim translations from Portuguese
• DO NOT include a photo (unless specifically requested)
• Highlight experiences that demonstrate transferable skills
• Be absolutely honest about your level of English
• Use PDF format for sending (never Word)
• Name the file as: "Nome_Sobrenome_CV_2026.pdf”
• Check spelling and grammar multiple times
• Ask natives to review if possible

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Sectors with the highest demand in 2026

Some sectors offer significantly more opportunities for international students in Ireland, especially in 2026. Get to know these areas before starting your interchange can help with career planning:

Hospitality and Tourism (70% of student hires):

• Hotels: Receptionists, housekeeping, night auditor
• Restaurants: Waiters, cooks, runners, hosts
• Cafes: Baristas, attendants, supervisors
• Bars and pubs: Bartenders, bar backs, door staff
• Average salary: €14-16/hour + generous tips

Retail and Supermarkets (35% of opportunities):

• Street stores: Vendors, cashiers, assistants
• Major chains: Tesco, Dunnes Stores, Lidl, Aldi
• Shopping centers: Greater flexibility of schedules
• Average salary: €14.10-15/hour

Customer Service and Support (45% growth in 2025-2026):

• Call centers: Especially for Portuguese speakers
• Chat support: Message support for global companies
• Tech support: Level 1 technical support
• Companies actively seek multilinguals
• Average salary: €15-18/hour

Technology and IT (new market for students):

• QA Testing: Software Quality Testing
• Data entry: Data entry and organization
• Junior developers: For IT students
• Tech support: Technical support in Portuguese
• Average salary: €16-20/hour

Deliveries and Logistics (post-pandemic explosion):

• Deliveroo, Just Eat, Uber Eats: Deliveroo Deliveroo
• Amazon Flex: Independent Deliveries
• DPD, An Post: Logistics Assistants
• Full schedule flexibility
• Average salary: €14-17/hour + bonus per delivery

Cleaning and Facilities (always in demand):

• Commercial cleaning: Shopping mall, offices
• Residential cleaning: Houses and apartments
• Facilities management: Building maintenance
• Average salary: €14-15/hour

Ireland is home to large global companies such as Google, Facebook (Meta), Amazon, Microsoft, Apple, Pfizer, and Johnson & Johnson, which occasionally offer internship and part-time positions for qualified international students, especially during vacation periods.

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How to stand out in job interviews

Getting an interview is already a great achievement and shows that your CV has attracted attention! To make the most of this critical opportunity:

Essential prior preparation:

• Research deeply about the company: Website, social networks, recent news, values and organizational culture
• Practice your English intensively: Especially technical terms from your field and professional vocabulary. If you need to improve before you travel, consider programs from online languages
• Prepare answers to classic questions: “Tell me about yourself”, “Why do you want to work here?” , “What are your Strengths/Weaknesses?”
• Have concrete examples: Use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method
• Prepare smart questions: Demonstrate genuine interest in the position and company

On the day of the interview:

• Punctuality is absolutely essential: Arrive 10-15 minutes early
• Suitable clothing: Even for informal vacancies, introduce yourself professionally (business casual minimum)
• Positive body language: Eye contact, upright posture, firm handshake
• Genuine enthusiasm: Irish people value positive energy and motivation
• Absolute honesty: Especially about visa availability and limitations
• Highlight previous experiences: Focus on transferable skills, even if from different contexts.

Common Questions in Irish Interviews 2026:

• “What experience do you have in this role?”
• “How would you handle [specific job situation]?”
• “What is your availability?” (be specific about schedules)
• “Do you have your PPS number?” (essential to have before the interview)
• “When can you start?” (companies seek immediate availability)
• “How is your English level?” (be honest, don't overdo it)

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Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Working in a foreign country brings unique challenges that are important to anticipate and prepare accordingly:

Language barrier:

• Even with good academic English, Irish accents and local slang may initially confuse
• Don't hesitate to ask for clarification - it's better to ask than to make a mistake
• Watch Irish shows on TV to familiarize yourself with the accent
• Practice constantly outside the study environment

Significant cultural differences:

• Irish people value punctuality extremely - delays are unacceptable
• Direct but polite communication - avoid Brazilian rodeos
• Respect for hierarchy in the workplace
• Small talk is important - Irish people are very sociable
• Local humor can be sarcastic - don't take it personally

High competition in the market:

• Especially in Dublin, the competition is very fierce
• Thousands of international students seeking the same positions
• Differentiate yourself with certifications, experience, and networking
• Consider smaller cities with less competition

Inevitable initial rejections:

• It's absolutely normal to receive “no” for an answer in the first 10-20 attempts
• Don't be discouraged - persistence is fundamental and valued
• Ask for feedback when possible to improve
• Every “no” brings you closer to “yes”

Adaptation to the routine:

• Rainy and cold weather can affect mood - prepare yourself mentally
• Homesickness is natural - keep in touch with family
• Build local support network - connect with other Brazilians
• Maintain hobbies and activities that make you happy

Remember: persistence, resilience, and adaptability are key. Many Brazilians start in simple positions and gradually progress to areas related to their training. The first professional experience in Ireland opens the door to much better opportunities.

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Balancing study and work with success

One of the biggest challenges for exchange students is to find a healthy balance between academic and professional activities without compromising either. Who are you doing it for exchange in Ireland, this management is fundamental:

Efficient time management:

• Get organized with digital tools: Use Google Calendar, Notion, or Todoist to manage appointments
• Always prioritize studies: Its main objective is the formation and learning of the language
• Establish clear boundaries: Don't accept more work hours than you can manage
• Plan ahead: Anticipate exam periods and academic work

Transparent communication:

• Inform employers about probationary periods: Most companies are flexible with students
• Be honest about availability: Don't promise what you can't deliver
• Keep teachers informed: If work is affecting your studies, talk

Health and well-being:

• Adequate rest is essential: Minimum 7 hours of sleep per night
• Balanced diet: Don't skimp on health to save money
• Regular physical activity: Helps with stress and energy management
• Balanced social life: Make time for friends and leisure

Warning signs to reduce load:

• Academic grades falling
• Constant extreme tiredness
• Lack of concentration in classes
• Excessive anxiety or stress
• Recurrent health problems

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Comparing with other exchange destinations

For those who are deciding between different destinations, it's worth comparing Ireland with other popular options. While Ireland offers excellent job opportunities and competitive salaries, destinations such as Malta and Aotearoa they also present attractive programs for Brazilian students. If you are looking for an experience more focused on an academic career, the programs of University abroad may be more suitable.

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Be Easy

Our specialized team, with over 17 years of experience, can help you find the best study and work opportunities in Ireland aligned with your profile. With the Be Easy, you transform your dream of studying and working abroad into a concrete reality, making the most of this transformative experience!

Contact us and discover how we can help fulfill your exchange dream in Ireland in 2026 with safety, peace of mind and guaranteed results.