How to Choose an Ethical Nursing Recruitment Agency for Ireland
Protect your money and your career.
A good recruitment agency can make moving to Ireland easier. A bad one can cost you money, time and opportunities. Here is how to tell the difference.
What a good agency does
- Matches you with genuine employers that suit your experience
- Explains the NMBI, permit and visa process honestly
- Helps you prepare your CV and interviews
- Communicates clearly about timelines
- Supports you with relocation and arrival
- Is paid by the employer, not by you
Check the agency is licensed
Recruitment agencies operating in Ireland need an employment agency licence. Ask for the licence number and check it with the relevant Irish authority. If the agency is based in your home country, check it is licensed there too, for example with the Department of Migrant Workers in the Philippines.
Ask about fees in writing
Under ethical recruitment principles, nurses should not be charged recruitment fees. Ask the agency directly:
- Do you charge me any fee at any stage?
- Who pays for the employment permit, visa and flights?
- Will I have to repay anything if I leave the job early?
Get the answers in writing.
Read the contract carefully
Look for clear details on salary, scale point, hours, adaptation pay, accommodation, contract length and any repayment or “bond” clauses. Be very cautious of large penalties for leaving. Ask a trusted person or adviser to review anything unclear.
Red flags
- Guarantees of NMBI registration, permits or visas
- Requests for large upfront fees or payments to personal accounts
- Pressure to sign quickly
- Jobs that skip NMBI registration
- Vague employer details or no written contract
- Agencies that keep your passport or certificates
Questions to ask before you sign
- Which employer will I work for, and can I speak to them directly?
- Where exactly is the job, and what ward or service?
- What support do you give during adaptation?
- How many nurses have you placed with this employer?
- Can I speak to nurses you have placed before?
- What happens if the job offer is withdrawn?
Applying directly is always an option
You do not need an agency. Many nurses apply directly through hospital and nursing home career pages and HSE listings. See nursing jobs with visa sponsorship.
If something goes wrong
If you believe an agency has acted illegally or exploited you, report it to the licensing authority and the police. Tell other nurses through community groups to protect them too.
Frequently asked questions
Should I pay a recruitment agency to work in Ireland?
No. Ethical agencies are paid by employers.
Do I need an agency to get a nursing job in Ireland?
No. You can apply directly to employers.
What is a bond clause?
A term requiring you to repay costs if you leave early. Read it carefully before signing.
Apply directly
See where to find genuine nursing jobs.
