EU/EEA Citizens

Introduction

Citizens of the European Union or the European Economic Area (other than Bulgarian and Romanian nationals) can live and work in Ireland relatively hassle free, due to the EU policy of free-movement of labor. In most cases, you just go to Ireland, register your presence with valid identification (passport, etc), and start work.

Special Policy for Bulgarian and Romanian Nationals

Special policies are in place for Bulgarian and Romanian nationals who wish to work in Ireland. For the most part, citizens of both countries are required to have a work permit to take employment within Ireland -- however, there are a few exceptions:

• Bulgarian and Romanian nationals who have been living in Ireland with a valid employment permit that expires on or after the 31 December 2006, for an uninterrupted period of 12 months or longer
• Bulgarian and Romanian nationals who entered the State on or after 1 January 2007 and are the spouse/dependant of an EU national, other than a Bulgarian or Bulgarian national, and who both live together in Ireland.
• Bulgarian and Romanian nationals who live in Ireland and are self-employed
• Bulgarian and Romanian nationals who are students and work less than 20 hours per week (after completion of studies they will require an employment permit for 12 months)
• Bulgarian and Romanian nationals who have obtained special permission by the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform to work in Ireland without an employment permit