Finding an internship in Ireland

By doing an internship, the person can show what they are capable of in the working environment and very often will be offered a permanent job if their standards are up to scratch.

How to find an internship in Ireland

Most companies in Ireland will have an internship opening in place. Some of these will be more formal than others. For example, big accounting firms will always take in a large number of interns each year, whereby they will undergo extensive training and follow a detailed outline during their time in the role. Other internships may be a bit more off the cuff.

You can look for internship opportunities in Ireland by having a browse through different company websites, or you can go to sites dedicated to showcasing the latest internship opportunities like the following:

Internships Ireland
GradIreland

Do you need experience to obtain an internship in Ireland?

If you are in the early stage of your career, then there will not be too much expectation on you having direct experience. However, the employer will look to see if you have the relevant skillsets from other forms of employment or knowledge from your studies that will help you be a success at the company.

The internship market is a completive one, so the more experience you do have, the better.

How to get an internship in Ireland?

For most internship roles, you will need to fill out an application form online. Most of the time, you will also have to attach a copy of your CV. Your CV must be tailored for this specific internship role.

This means highlighting the skills and experience you have which are relevant to the job at hand. If your application gets the all-clear, you will likely be invited for an interview. Some of these can take place over the phone while others will be in person.

Sometimes the interview process may also have some form of competency test attached with it to ensure that you meet some minimum standard.

It is a good idea to do your research and look online to see what other people going for the same internship role in the past have to say about the interviewing process. You will very likely be able to get a good insight and bit of a leg up against your competition by doing so.

Do you need a visa?

Short term internship in Ireland

If you are not from an EU country, you will need to apply for immigration permission before applying for a visa. You will then need to apply for an internship visa.

Long term internship in Ireland

EU nationals can work in an internship in Ireland without needing permission. For those from a non-EU country and doing a paid internship, they will need to get permission to stay in Ireland, as well as registering with immigration. You will not be able to work as an unpaid intern.

You will have to apply for and get immigration permission to work as a paid intern in Ireland. You will have to already have an employment or job contract in place before you apply. When you get to Ireland, you will need to apply for permission to stay in Ireland and be registered with immigration.

What documents are needed?

You will need to have an employment contract, permission for immigration, a valid reason for coming to Ireland, a passport and your employment permit.