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Working holiday in
Ireland

Australia, New Zealand and Canada qualify for the Working Holiday Authorisation. British citizens need no scheme at all under the Common Travel Area. Verified against official sources.

Classiebawn Castle above the rugged Atlantic coast at Mullaghmore, County Sligo.

Working holiday visa programmes

Visa programmes
Ireland Working Holiday Authorisation
Visa fee
Varies
By nationality
Eligible nationalities
3
Maximum stay
Up to 24 months
Where extensions apply

Processing time varies by passport, visa subclass and current government processing conditions. Age limits, length of stay and fees also differ by nationality, so check your own route below.

Can you get a working holiday visa for Ireland?

3 nationalities have a working holiday agreement with Ireland. Find your country to see the visa available to you, the age limit, length of stay and application requirements.

Compare fees, ages and stay lengths for every nationality →
New to Ireland?
Start here: first-week checklist
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Get ready for Ireland

Banking

Open a local account soon after you arrive in Ireland so you can get paid and skip foreign-card fees. Most banks let you start the application online before you land.

Mobile and connectivity

Set up a local number or eSIM in Ireland for data and calls. The major networks have the widest coverage; budget MVNOs run on the same towers for less.

Tax

The work/tax number you need in Ireland, how to apply, and what it means for getting paid.

Healthcare

What healthcare you can access in Ireland, how to see a doctor, and whether you need insurance.

Living and working in Ireland

Cost of livingWhat a working holiday in Ireland actually costs: rent, wages, food, and transport.Opening a bank accountHow to open an account in Ireland, which banks are easiest for newcomers, and how to get paid.Getting a SIMMobile networks, budget MVNOs, and eSIM options for staying connected in Ireland.HealthcareWhat healthcare you can access in Ireland, how to see a doctor, and whether you need insurance.Tax and work numberThe work/tax number you need in Ireland, how to apply, and what it means for getting paid.
All Ireland living guides →

Ireland working holiday FAQ

Who can do a working holiday in Ireland?

Australia, New Zealand and Canada qualify for the Working Holiday Authorisation. British citizens do not need a scheme: under the Common Travel Area they can already live and work in Ireland.

Do British citizens need a working holiday visa for Ireland?

No. Under the Common Travel Area, British citizens can live and work in Ireland with no visa or permit, so there is no Working Holiday Authorisation for them.

How long is the Ireland Working Holiday Authorisation?

Australia and New Zealand holders get up to 12 months; Canada holders get up to 24 months. One authorisation per person, activated within 12 months of issue.

What are the age limits for the Ireland WHA?

Australia and Canada are open to applicants aged 18 to 35; New Zealand is 18 to 30.

Your first-week checklist

The practical order of things for your first days. What to sort and where to go next.