Work in Ireland

If you are not ready to return to the US, and fancy staying on this side of the world for a little longer, the Work in Ireland programme could be the answer. To be eligible for the programme you must be a US citizen and hold a valid Blue Card. For more details please see www.bunac.com/usa/ireland/. Please note this site is for those applying in the US you need to refer to the information below if applying in the UK.

You will be able to work for a maximum of 4 months from the start date on your permit. Your Work in Ireland permit can start before, on or the day after the expiry date of your Blue Card, but no later. The programme is very similar to the Work in Britain programme and typical jobs are in tourism, retail and offices.

In order to apply to the programme you must submit (either in person or by post) the following to the BUNAC office in London or Edinburgh:

• A fully completed application form
• A copy of your Blue Card
• A copy of your initial entry stamp into the UK
• Three passport sized photographs (please write your name on the back of each)
• £125 application fee. Payment can be by cash, credit card or a cheque made payable to BUNAC

Applications can be made by post or in person at the London or Edinburgh BUNAC offices. You must allow a minimum of eight weeks for your permit to be processed (this is a new requirement from January 2008).

Once BUNAC has processed your application you will receive your Work in Ireland permit, a Work in Ireland handbook and a 'Travelling to Ireland/Hostel' information sheet. Arrival orientations are held in Dublin, so we would recommend starting your trip there.

Please note that as you will only be in Ireland for a short time, you will not be eligible for the health benefits which apply to Irish Nationals. Therefore please make sure that you have insurance to cover your time in Ireland. If you currently have BUNAC Insurance this can be extended, if not we can sell you a new policy - please ask staff for further details.

At orientation you will receive your Work in Ireland Participant Card which must be presented when you register with the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB).  You must register with the GNIB in order to receive work authorisation. The fee to register with the GNIB is €150 and can be paid by credit card (no debit cards accepted).  Further information will be available at your orientation in Dublin.

To apply please complete the application form and return to BUNAC.