Employment (Scientific Researcher)
Ireland
Last updated: December 25, 2025
3 months (renewable)
$64
6-8 weeks
Medium
About this Visa
This visa lets you work as a researcher in Ireland. You need a job offer from an Irish university or research organization paying at least €23,000–€25,000 per year (or €30,000 if you bring family). This visa is faster and easier than regular work permits. You don't need to prove Irish workers can't do your job. Your spouse or children can come with you and work without needing a separate permit. It's for people with higher education degrees (master's or PhD) who want to do research in Ireland.
Key Benefits
- Work without restrictions
- Bring spouse and children
- Spouse can work without work permit
- Get permanent residency after 2 years
- Apply for Irish citizenship after 5 years
- Family members have free work permits
- Access Irish healthcare after registration
- Travel in and out of Ireland without additional paperwork
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- Must have a university degree (bachelor's or higher)
- Must be a researcher or research assistant
- Must have a job offer from an approved Irish organization
- Must earn at least €23,000–€30,000 per year depending on family size
- Must have a job contract for at least 3 months
- Must have medical insurance
- Must have no criminal record
- Must not have been banned from any country
- Must speak English well enough to do your job (no test required)
Financial Requirement
Annual salary minimum: €23,000–€25,000 (without dependents) or €30,000 (with dependents). Must show 6 months of bank statements.
Documents
- Valid passportIn good condition for your whole stay
- 2 passport photosColor, taken in last 6 months
- Job contractFrom your Irish employer showing salary
- Hosting agreementOfficial letter from your university that they must get approved first
- 6 months bank statementsOn your bank's official paper
- Medical insurance proofEvidence you have health insurance
- Employer letterConfirming they will pay you
- Application letterExplain why you're coming and where you'll live
- Translated documentsEnglish versions if any documents aren't in English
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Please verify all information with official government sources and consult a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions.