Are you a nurse looking for the perfect place to grow your career while enjoying a high quality of life? Ireland is calling! With its welcoming healthcare system, excellent work-life balance, and opportunities for professional growth, Ireland has become one of the best destinations for international nurses. But what exactly makes it so special? Here are five top benefits of working as a nurse in Ireland — plus, how OET can help you get there!
1. A fulfilling nursing career where you truly make a difference
Nurses in Ireland experience a high level of professional satisfaction. The healthcare system provides the resources and support you need to do your job effectively, ensuring that patient care remains the top priority. You’ll have access to modern facilities, well-structured teams, and continuous professional development opportunities, helping you grow in confidence and make a real impact.
2. Competitive salary that recognises your experience
Your hard work and experience matter in Ireland! Nurses receive competitive salaries, with pay scales that consider your prior experience — even if it’s outside Ireland. For instance, as of October 2024, the salary scale for a Staff Nurse/Midwife starts at €35,919 and can progress up to €52,294 annually, depending on experience and time at a job.
3. A work-life balance that supports you and your family
Ireland is known for its family-friendly policies and excellent work-life balance.
As a nurse, you’ll benefit from:
- Paid maternity leave – 26 weeks of statutory leave, with an additional 16 weeks of optional unpaid leave. During this period, you may be eligible for Maternity Benefit of €289 per week, depending on your PRSI contributions (Pay Related Social Insurance – mandatory deductions from your salary that fund social welfare benefits). Many employers top up this amount to match your full salary, so it’s worth checking your workplace policy! Plus, your job is fully secured while you are on maternity leave.
- Paternity leave and parental support
- Sick leave, annual leave, and compassionate leave
- Free maternity and childbirth care
If you have a Critical Skills Employment Permit, you can bring your spouse and children to Ireland, and they’ll also have pathways to residency and citizenship!
Child benefit details
Ireland offers a child benefit payment to support parents and guardians. As of November 2024, the payment is €140 per month per child. This benefit is available for children:
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Under 16 years of age
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Under 19 years of age if in full-time education, full-time training, or who have a disability and cannot support themselves
Additionally, from 1 May 2024, child benefit has been extended to children aged 18 who are in full-time education or who have a disability.
4. Career flexibility and extra earning opportunities
After just two years on a Critical Skills Employment Permit, you can start working for other employers in addition to your main job. Many nurses take on extra shifts through agencies, increasing their earnings and gaining experience in different settings.
Navigating employment through recognised recruitment agencies
Currently, there is no hiring freeze in Ireland, making it the right time for international nurses to seek employment.
To assist in your job search, consider engaging with reputable recruitment agencies.
Here are some tips to find a trustworthy agency:
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Seek recommendations: Connect with fellow nurses who have experience working in Ireland. They can provide valuable insights and may suggest agencies they trust.
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Conduct vigilant research: Look for reviews and testimonials about recruitment agencies.
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Utilise online resources: Platforms like YouTube feature videos of foreign nurses working in Ireland who mention recruitment agencies they trust.
Visit OET’s Recognising Organisations page and filter by Ireland under "Country" and Employers under "Organisation Type" to see the recruitment agencies trusted by OET.
Remember, legitimate agencies should not charge you for their services. Always verify the credibility of an agency before proceeding.
5. A pathway to permanent residency and EU citizenship
Ireland offers long-term stability for nurses. After five years, you and your family members can apply for citizenship, gaining all the benefits of being a European Union (EU) citizen — including the ability to live and work across EU countries.
How to get started? OET can help!
To work as a nurse in Ireland, you need to register with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland (NMBI) — and passing the OET Test is a key requirement. OET Test is designed for healthcare professionals like you, ensuring you have the English skills needed to work confidently in an English-speaking healthcare environment.
Your dream nursing career in Ireland starts here!
With competitive salaries, career growth, family-friendly benefits, and a path to permanent residency, Ireland is a fantastic place for international nurses. If you’re ready to make the move, start by preparing for your OET Test today and take the first step toward your future in Ireland.
Get started with Free OET Sample Tests