How to apply for tax refunds after working in Ireland: Complete guide 2025
Ireland has earned its place as one of the most desirable exchange destinations, combining exceptional professional opportunities, vibrant culture and stunning landscapes. But did you know that, in addition to all the transformative experience, you can still recover part of the taxes paid while working in the country? This benefit can represent a significant return, even paying for part of your program or even those dream low-cost trips around Europe!
Why Ireland is a perfect place to work
Ireland has established itself as the new European business hub, attracting technology giants, pharmaceutical companies and financial services companies. This heated scenario creates excellent opportunities for exchange students, providing not only an enriching cultural experience, but also the chance to build a valued international curriculum.
Even facing challenges such as the pandemic and the housing crisis, the country maintains its prominent position as a preferred destination for those who wish to study, work and possibly build a life abroad.
Everything about the Irish tax refund
Who is entitled to a refund?
If you worked legally in Ireland during your exchange program, you are probably entitled to request a refund of part of the taxes withheld from your payroll. The Irish tax system works with the PAYE (Pay As You Earn) model, where taxes are automatically deducted from your salary.
Key factors that determine your eligibility include:
- Have legally worked in Ireland with a PPS Number (equivalent to a CPF)
- Have paid income taxes (PAYE)
- Have all payslips or P60/P45 statement
- Have adequate documentation of deductible expenses (when applicable)
What is the deadline for requesting a refund?
You have a generous period of up to 4 full fiscal years to request your refund. For example, in 2025, you can still request refunds for the years 2021 to 2024. This large window allows you to properly organize your documentation even after returning to Brazil.
How much can I receive in reimbursement?
The average reimbursement amount for international students is around €950 (approximately R$5,200), which may vary significantly depending on:
- Time worked in Ireland
- Salary range during the period
- Tax credits applicable to you
- Deductible expenses (medical, educational, etc.)
Some exchange students recover up to €1,500, especially those who worked for longer periods or with higher salaries.
How to claim your tax refund
The application process can be carried out in two ways:
1. Direct request to the Revenue (Irish tax authority):
- Create a MyAccount account on the Revenue website
- Gather all tax documents (P60/P45, payslips)
- Complete Form 12 (for non-residents)
- Wait for the review and approval of the order
2. Hiring a specialized service:
- Companies such as Taxback.com They offer full assistance
- More likely to maximize your reimbursement
- Service fees generally between 10-15% of the amount recovered
- Multilingual support and process monitoring
Required documents
To ensure an efficient process, have on hand:
- PPS Number (Irish tax identification number)
- All paychecks (payslips) for the period worked
- Employer-provided P45/P60 forms
- Proof of address in Ireland
- Bank details for receiving the refund
- Proof of deductible expenses (where applicable)
Tips for maximizing your refund
- Keep all receipts for medical expenses: They are deductible and can significantly increase your reimbursement
- Strict control of paychecks: Request and save all monthly payslips
- Report educational expenses: Courses related to your area may be partially deductible
- Declare status changes: Changes in your work or personal situation may positively impact the calculation
Study and work in Ireland
Be Easy offers a complete program for those who wish Study and Work in Ireland , combining linguistic development, professional experience and cultural immersion. Our program is structured to maximize your international experience.
Benefits of the program:
- Educational Excellence: Internationally recognized educational institutions
- Diversified job opportunities: Strong and stable economy with vacancies in various sectors
- Guaranteed work permit: 20 hours a week during the academic period and 40 hours during the holidays
- Support at every stage: From course choice to adaptation in the country
- Rich and welcoming culture: Complete immersion in the Irish lifestyle
Be Easy
Na Be Easy, we are committed not only to providing a transformative international experience, but also to guiding you through the entire process, including how to maximize benefits such as tax refunds. Our specialized team offers personalized support from initial planning to your return, ensuring that you take advantage of every available opportunity during your exchange in Ireland. Contact us today and discover how we can help make your international dreams a reality!
