Ireland Info
Living in the emerald isle can be a ball of fun as long as you know what to expect
Visas
Unless you have a passport issued by a country from the European Economic Area or Switzerland, you'll need a visa to work in Ireland. The good news is there are a few options for Aussies.
Working holiday visas
Australians and New Zealanders aged between 18 and 30 can apply for a Working Holiday visa through the Embassy of Ireland in Canberra or the Honorary Consul General of Ireland in Auckland. The visa allows you to stay for 12 months, but you can only work for three months with any one employer. You will also need to show you can support yourself financially (A$5000 in the bank or A$2500 plus a return ticket home).
Green Card
The Green Card is a two-year employment programme for most occupations with a salary over €60,000 and some restricted occupations with a salary between €30,000 and €60,000. This permit can be applied for by the employer or the employee, so you'll need a job or a firm job offer. It can usually be renewed indefinitely after the initial two years.
Work permit
Work permits can be granted for jobs offering €30,000 or more and in certain circumstances when the salary is less. It is used when a Green Card isn't applicable. Initially valid for two years, it can be renewed for another three years. After five years it becomes indefinite. It can be applied for by either the employee or employer and costs €1000 for six to 12 months.
Tax
Tax is deducted from your pay through a Pay As You Earn (PAYE) system, so you'll need a Personal Public Service (PPS) number, which is similar to a tax file number in Australia, in order to begin working. See the Moving to Ireland Guide on the Irish Tax and Customs website (www.revenue.ie)
Accommodation
If you're expecting cheap accommodation in Dublin, you'll be disappointed to learn the city is known for its high cost of living. The good news is, it's more affordable once you get out of the capital. Many expats live in shared accommodation to save on expenses and meet people. Check out newspapers such as the Irish Independent, Irish Times and Irish Examiner for lettings and www.daft.ie for sharehouses.
After hours
If there's one thing the Emerald Isle has a reputation for, it's craic (no, not the illegal stuff). The Irish know how to have a good time, and if you are up for some Guinness-guzzling shenanigans, you're coming to the right place. A pub crawl around Dublin's Temple Bar district, the entertainment hub of the capital, is a favourite activity of many Aussies. You'll also find traditional Irish pubs on almost every street corner.
