Ireland has become an increasingly popular destination among Brazilians seeking work and study opportunities abroad. With its welcoming culture, stunning natural beauty and growing economy, the country has a lot to offer. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore what it’s like to work and study in Ireland, from the minimum wage to the best cities to live.
Minimum Wage in Ireland
One of the most important factors to consider when planning a move to Ireland is the minimum wage. In 2023, the minimum wage in Ireland is €11.30 per hour worked. This equates to approximately 1,700 euros per month for those working full time.
For many Brazilians, the possibility of earning in euros is an irresistible attraction. For example, if you work as a cleaner for 20 hours a week, your monthly salary would be 850 euros. In terms of conversion to the real, this represents around 4,800 reais, depending on the current exchange rate.
It is worth noting that professions such as waiter, kitchen assistant, call center attendant and software developer also offer attractive salaries in Ireland, ranging from 11.30 to 25 euros per hour.
Working and Vacation Schedule
Working hours in Ireland are generally 9am to 5pm, with a one-hour lunch break. Lunch times are usually from 12 pm to 2 pm, although they can vary depending on the job. It is interesting to note that, unlike Brazil, lunch is not such an important meal for the Irish, and it is common to see people having snacks instead of lunch.
There are legal limits on working hours in Ireland. Generally, Irish people work 39 to 48 hours a week. However, for students, the limit is 20 hours per week during the academic period. During school holidays, students can work full time.
An interesting aspect is that holidays in Ireland can be taken at any time of the year, and do not need to be consecutive. For example, you can take 4 days of vacation in a specific month. Furthermore, after a month of work, employees have the right to take vacation.
Requirements to Work in Ireland
To work in Ireland, you must be enrolled in a course lasting at least 25 weeks in English. There are also specific exchange programs in Ireland that are exclusive to work, and you can consult the options available at specialized agencies.
When planning your move to Ireland, it is important to take costs into account. It is recommended to bring at least 700 euros per month for your stay in the country. In addition, you must enroll in an English course with a minimum workload of 15 hours per week. The average duration of these courses varies from 6 months to 2 years.
Brazilians in Ireland
The majority of Brazilians who go to work in Ireland focus on sectors such as food, beverage and customer service. However, depending on the level of English and training, it is possible to find Brazilians working in Irish supermarkets and convenience stores. The versatility of Brazilians is a strong point in this aspect.
Work Visa in Ireland
Ireland offers some possibilities for obtaining a work visa, but this is dependent on the level of education. To obtain a work visa in Ireland, it is necessary to complete a level 9 or 10 higher education course. After completing the course, the student can apply for a work visa, which is valid for 2 years.
Level 9 courses in Ireland generally correspond to master’s degrees and postgraduate degrees, while level 10 courses are equivalent to doctorates. It is important to highlight that to study levels 9 and 10, an advanced level of English is required.
Living and Accommodation Costs in Ireland
In addition to considering all available salaries and job opportunities, it is crucial to understand the costs of living and accommodation options in Ireland. Prices can vary significantly depending from city to city in which you choose to live.
In Dublin, for example, the cost of living is generally higher compared to other Irish cities. Apartment rents can also be high in the capital, although there are shared accommodation and student housing options to save money.
Smaller cities such as Galway and Limerick generally have more affordable living costs and cheaper rents. It’s worth researching and comparing prices before making a decision.
Additionally, consider transportation, food, and entertainment expenses when calculating your monthly budget. Remember that with proper planning, you can balance your expenses and make the most of your experience in Ireland.
The Best Cities to Work and Study
Ireland offers several city options to live, study and work. The capital, Dublin, is the most famous and also the most popular among students and tourists. With its young and diverse population, Dublin is known as the capital of Irish pubs.
Another city that deserves to be highlighted is Cork, the second largest city in Ireland, which is just 3 hours from Dublin. In addition to these, there are other interesting options, such as Galway, Limerick and Waterford.
Now that you have a complete picture of what it’s like to work and study in Ireland, including salaries, requirements and the best cities to live, you’re ready to embark on this exciting journey.
In short, working and studying in Ireland is an enriching experience for Brazilians looking for opportunities abroad. With attractive salaries, a quality education system and a welcoming environment, Ireland has become a prominent destination for those looking to expand their horizons.
Always remember to find out about the specific visa requirements and details of each exchange program before making your plans. With determination and proper planning, you can make the most of your journey in the land of clovers and stunning landscapes. Good luck!
