Jobs in Ireland for exchange students in 2025
Dreaming of living an international experience while working and studying in Ireland? One of the biggest challenges for exchange students is to understand the local labor market and identify the best opportunities available. In 2025, employment options in Ireland for international students remain diverse and accessible, especially for Brazilians seeking personal and professional growth.
The Irish job market for exchange students
The job market in Ireland is extremely receptive to international students, offering diverse opportunities in different sectors. With a constantly growing economy and a culture that values diversity, the country has become one of the most sought after destinations by Brazilians who want study and work in Ireland. In 2025, this trend is further strengthened with the opening of new vacancies and the easing of some hiring requirements.
For Brazilian exchange students, one of the great advantages is the work permit that accompanies a student visa. Depending on the course and the duration of the program, it is possible to work between 20 and 40 hours a week, allowing not only to cover part of the expenses, but also to acquire valuable international professional experience for the curriculum. In addition, the Irish minimum wage, one of the highest in Europe, guarantees fair compensation even for entry-level roles.
Sectors with the highest demand for international students
The hospitality and services sector remains the main employer of international students in Ireland. These areas offer greater flexibility in schedules, more accessible experience requirements, and opportunities to practice English on a daily basis. In 2025, some sectors stand out for their high demand for workers:
- Hospitality and tourism: Hotels, hostels, restaurants, cafés and pubs constantly hire for functions such as attendant, waiter, barista, receptionist and housekeeping
- Retail: Stores, supermarkets, and shopping centers offer vacancies for attendants, cashiers, and inventory assistants
- Delivery services: With the continuous growth of e-commerce, delivery and logistics companies are looking for couriers, order separators, and assistants
- Care for children and the elderly: Roles such as nanny (au pair) and caregivers, especially for families that value cultural exchange
- Information Technology: For those already trained in the area, technical support, development, and data analysis positions are available, especially in Dublin
- Events and entertainment: Temporary work at festivals, shows, and cultural events, especially during the high tourist season
The most common jobs in Ireland for exchange students
Food and beverage establishments represent one of the main gateways for exchange students to the Irish labor market. Working in restaurants, cafés and pubs offers much more than just a source of income - it's a complete immersion in local culture, with opportunities to constantly practice English and expand your network of international contacts.
Functions such as barista, waiter/waitress, and kitchen porter are particularly accessible to those starting out. Many establishments value attitude, availability, and willingness to learn more than previous experience. In addition, the flexible hours of these positions make it possible to reconcile work and studies, a crucial factor for those who are in a program of exchange to learn a language abroad.
How to find a job in Ireland in 2025
Finding a good job in Ireland requires strategy and preparation. The process is competitive, but with the right tips, your chances increase significantly. Here's how to stand out when searching for opportunities:
- Prepare a resume in Irish standard: Concise documents (1-2 pages), focused on relevant experiences and adapted to each vacancy. Include references if available.
- Develop your online presence: Keep your LinkedIn profile up to date and connect with Irish professionals and companies. Join groups related to the local labor market.
- Use specific employment sites: Platforms such as Jobs.ie, Indeed Ireland, and Irish Jobs are widely used by local employers. Sign up and set up alerts to receive notifications of new vacancies.
- In-person networking: Attend networking events, job fairs, and meetings of Brazilian communities. Many opportunities are filled by referral.
- Search directly at the establishments: The face-to-face approach still works very well in Ireland. Visit establishments with your printed resume, especially in sectors such as hospitality and retail.
- Perfect your English: The better your command of the language, the more doors will open. Invest in extra classes and practice constantly.
Compensation and working conditions
In Ireland, the minimum wage for 2025 is set at €12.70 per hour, one of the highest in the European Union. For a 40-hour working week, this represents approximately €2,000 per month before taxes. Taxation varies according to the salary range, but students generally benefit from tax exemptions that allow them to keep a large part of their income.
Trending sectors and new opportunities
The Irish labor market is constantly evolving, with new sectors emerging as potential employers for exchange students. In 2025, in addition to traditional areas, new opportunities stand out, especially for those seeking experience in more specialized fields.
The Irish digital economy continues to expand, with Dublin established as one of Europe's main technological hubs. Large companies such as Google, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Microsoft maintain significant operations in the country and often offer internship programs and entry-level positions accessible to international students with training or experience in the field.
The healthcare sector is also in increasing demand, especially for support functions that do not require specific qualifications. Administrative positions in hospitals and clinics, as well as caregiver roles, provide opportunities for those with an interest in the area and a good level of English.
Balance between work and studies
One of the biggest challenges for exchange students is to find a balance between professional and academic activities. Working while studying requires organization and discipline, but with proper planning, it is possible to make the most of both experiences.
Irish legislation sets clear limits on working hours allowed for international students, precisely to ensure that the focus on studies is maintained. Depending on the type of visa and the academic period, you may be able to work between 20 and 40 hours a week. It is essential to respect these limits not only to comply with the law, but also to avoid compromising your academic performance.
Many Irish employers are used to hiring international students and offer flexible schedules that adapt to academic needs. When seeking a vacancy, be transparent about your availability and study commitments. Companies that value educational development tend to be important allies in your exchange journey.
Documentation required to work legally
To legally work in Ireland as an exchange student, you will need some essential documents. The bureaucratic process may seem complex at first, but with the right guidance, it becomes quite accessible.
The first and most important document is the Personal Public Service Number (PPS Number), equivalent to the Brazilian CPF. This number is essential to work formally, to open a bank account and to access public services in Ireland. To obtain it, you will need to present your passport, proof of Irish address, and letter of acceptance from the educational institution. The process can be initiated online and finalized in person at a Social Protection Department office.
In addition to the PPS Number, you must have an Irish bank account to receive your salary. Banks such as AIB, Bank of Ireland, and Revolut are popular with exchange investors for their ease of opening and low fees. Also remember that your student visa must be valid for the entire working period, and the established time limitations must be strictly respected.
Be Easy
A Be Easy specializes in turning exchange dreams into reality. Our Study and Work in Ireland program offers complete support, from choosing the ideal course to guidance for finding employment in the country. With over 10 years of experience and a team that knows the Irish market in depth, we ensure that your experience is safe and enriching. Start your international journey right now and discover why we are the preferred choice of thousands of Brazilians who decided to study and work abroad.
