Are you a non-native of your country who is ambitious to explore the world and improve your professional self? Do not worry about finding the right one but why don’t you take a look at Ireland Internship Visa? In this detailed manual, we are going to explore the inner workings of this invaluable chance which can open the way to career progression of the person entering it.
What is the Ireland Internship Visa?
The Ireland Internship Visa is the pass to the opportunity to gain professional experience while relaxing in the enchanted territories of Ireland. Designed for foreign citizens aspiring to complete an internship and bolster their professional skills, this visa comes in two flavors:
Long Stay ‘D’ Visa
This option allows you to stay in Ireland for more than three months, providing an extensive experience in an Irish workplace.
Short Stay ‘C’ Visa
Ideal for shorter internships, this visa allows you to remain in Ireland for up to 90 days, making it perfect for those looking to gain valuable insights quickly.
Please note that this visa is exclusively for paid interns. Unfortunately, it is not possible to apply for the Internship Visa for unpaid internships. Additionally, to qualify, you must be enrolled as a full-time student in a third-level educational institution outside Ireland.
Eligibility Requirements
To ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for the Ireland Internship Visa, consider the following factors:
Job Offer
You must have a secured job offer, indicating your commitment to the internship.
Minimum Wage
Your remuneration should meet or exceed the National Minimum Wage in Ireland, ensuring fair compensation for your work.
Highly Skilled Occupation
Your internship role should be listed among the Highly Skilled Eligible Occupations, demonstrating the value you bring to the Irish workforce.
Intent to Depart
You must provide evidence of your intention to leave Ireland once the internship concludes, emphasizing your commitment to the program.
Financial Support
Be prepared to furnish details about any financial support you will receive during your internship.
Relevance to Your Studies
Your internship should be directly related to your field of study and contribute to your academic and professional growth.
Securing the Internship Employment Permit
Before applying for the Internship Visa, you need to obtain immigration permission that allows you to participate in a paid placement in Ireland. This permission requires proof of a job offer or an employment contract. It is a crucial step in embarking on your internship journey in Ireland.
If you’re uncertain about your eligibility, don’t hesitate to reach out to our immigration consultants. They will assess your case and guide you through the application process.
The Atypical Working Scheme
Consequently, for those persons who can see no way to WorldSkills Ireland, the Atypical Working Scheme may be a valid solution. Launching the Government Depart of Business, Enterprise, and Innovation (DBEI), which intends to retain or lure high-skilled personnel is the basis for this scheme. To be eligible, consider the following criteria:
- Skill Shortage: You must fill a position that is currently facing a shortage of skilled workers.
- Compensation: Your internship or short-term employment should offer a fair wage for your skills.
- Letter of Approval: Secure an Atypical Working Scheme letter of approval before arriving in Ireland.
- Entry Permission: Apply for an appropriate entry permission to Ireland before your arrival.
This scheme is particularly beneficial for Paid Researchers or Locum Doctors working in the general practice, hospital sector, or primary care sector.
Applying for the Internship Visa
Now that you are well-acquainted with the prerequisites, let’s explore the application process:
Initial Online Application
Regardless of whether you opt for the Internship Employment Permit route or the Atypical Working Scheme, begin by submitting your visa application online. Upon submission, you will receive instructions on where to send your supporting documents.
Document Submission
Send in your passport, valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Ireland, along with other documents demonstrating your eligibility for the visa. The designated office for document submission will be detailed on your visa application summary sheet.
Employer’s Role: The Intern Permit
Irish employers seeking to host interns from abroad must apply for the Intern Permit. To qualify, they must meet specific criteria and demonstrate their commitment to fairness:
Registration
Employers must be registered with the Revenue Commissioners and, in some cases, with the Companies Registration Office/Registry of Friendly Societies.
Payment Commitment
Employers should intend to pay their interns fairly.
Majority EEA Nationals
Intern Permits are typically granted to employers whose businesses employ over half of EEA nationals.
If you own a business in Ireland and are interested in hiring foreign interns, our immigration experts can guide you through the process and the necessary permits.
Visa Costs
The cost of the Internship Visa depends on the duration of your stay in Ireland:
- Long Stay ‘D’ Visa or Short Stay ‘C’ Visa
- Single entry permit: €60
- Multiple entry visa: €100
Additionally, you will need to pay fees for the Internship Employment Permit or the Atypical Working Scheme:
Internship Employment Permit
- €500 for a permit valid for 6 months or less
- €1000 for a permit valid from 6 to 12 months
Should your Internship Visa application be unsuccessful, you will receive a ninety percent refund of your fees.
Processing Time
The processing time for Internship Visas varies based on application volume. To ensure a timely outcome, apply at least three months before your planned employment start date. The minimum waiting time is twenty working days, although decisions often take longer.
To expedite your application and reduce processing time, consider consulting one of our immigration experts. They will review your application to ensure it is complete and accurate, avoiding potential delays.