Can I work in Ireland while studying on a student visa?

Yes, international students on valid Irish study visas have the right to work, with some restrictions:

Work rights for student visa holders:
- During term time: 20 hours per week maximum
- During summer and Christmas holidays (June–September, December–January): 40 hours per week (full-time)
- Your permission to work is linked to your current GNIB (GARDA National Immigration Bureau) card / Irish Residence Permit (IRP) validity

What type of work is permitted:
Any employment — no restriction on the industry or type of work. Students commonly work in hospitality, retail, customer service, and tutoring.

ILEP requirement:
You must be enrolled in an ILEP-recognised programme. Students on non-ILEP courses (some English language courses) may have no work rights.

Practical steps:
- Get a PPS Number (Personal Public Service Number): Required before you can work. Apply at your local Intreo office or Department of Social Protection online (myaccount.gov.ie). Bring proof of identity, address, and your study permission.
- Open a bank account: AIB, Bank of Ireland, and N26 are popular with international students.

Tax:
Register with Revenue (revenue.ie) for a Tax Credit Certificate. This ensures you are taxed correctly and receive your tax credits. Students often overpay tax and can claim a refund by filing an annual return.

Transition Year/Language students: If your programme is an English language course under 25 weeks, work rights are typically not included. Check with your institution.