Aupair Visa Ireland - Au Pair Program in Ireland

Families living in the Republic of Ireland can only welcome au pairs from the EU European Union  or from the three following countries: Iceland, Norway and Lichtenstein. Au pairs from these countries only have to register with the Irish police when they arrive but do not need any work permit to live and work in Ireland.

For au pairs coming from other countries it is possible to obtain a student visa if the prospective applicant is registered to study English at an approved language school. A student may hold down a part-time job to support themselves while studying. Part-time employment cannot exceed 25 hours per week. The immigration officials at the entry point however will always have the right to refuse entry if they believe the student is actually intending to work full-time.

US citizens can go to Ireland by obtaining a blue card through the BUNAC work-study visa program.

Working Holiday Maker Visa Program:

The Working Holiday Maker Scheme allows a person, age 18 to 29, to come to Ireland for up to one year as a tourist, and work casually in order to fund their stay.

Ireland currently has working holiday agreements with Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, Japan and New Zealand. Full time students or recent graduates from South Africa can apply for a special work visa valid for up to 6 months. See SASTS

Canadian citizens should contact SWAP (Student Work Abroad Programme, Ca) which administers the program on behalf of the Irish Embassy in Ottawa. Information and application forms are available from their website.

Further information can be obtained from your nearest Irish Embassy or Consulate, the Irish Government Department of Enterprise,Trade and Employment (work permit section):  Tel: 00353 21 274099/ 00353 1890 220222.

Do I need a visa to come to Ireland

Student Visa Requirements & Guidelines