Work and Live in Ireland as a Nurse

Choosing where to live

Where you work will largely decide where you live, but it helps to understand the differences between regions before you accept a job.

• Dublin. The capital has the most hospitals and the widest range of specialist roles. It is lively and international, but rents are the highest in the country and competition for housing is intense.
• Cork. Ireland’s second city has major teaching hospitals, a strong food culture and easy access to the coast. Living costs are high but lower than Dublin.
• Galway. A creative, student-friendly city on the west coast with a large university hospital. Housing is in short supply, so start searching early.
• Limerick and Waterford. Growing cities with regional hospitals and more affordable rents.
• Smaller towns. Regional hospitals and nursing homes across the country recruit actively. Life is quieter and cheaper, though you may need a car.

Finding accommodation

Housing is the biggest challenge for most new arrivals. Many employers offer temporary accommodation for the first weeks or months, so ask about this before you travel. Popular property websites list rooms and apartments, and Facebook groups for nurses and for your national community often share rooms and advice.

Expect landlords to ask for a deposit, usually one month’s rent, plus the first month in advance. Never send money for a property you have not seen or verified, as rental scams are common. Once you rent, your landlord should register the tenancy with the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB), which protects your rights.

Getting around

Dublin has buses, the Luas tram and DART commuter rail. Cork, Galway and Limerick have city bus networks, and intercity trains and coaches connect the main towns. Outside cities, public transport is limited and shift workers often need a car. You can drive for a period on certain foreign licences, and some countries have licence exchange agreements with Ireland; otherwise you will need to take the Irish driving test process. Car insurance can be expensive for new drivers in Ireland, so get quotes before buying a car.

Healthcare and schools for your family

As a resident, you can use the public health service. GP visits usually involve a fee unless you qualify for a medical card or GP visit card, and young children have free GP care. Many nurses choose private health insurance for faster access to some services, and some employers offer group schemes.

Public primary and secondary schools are free, though families pay for uniforms, books and some activities. Schools in popular areas fill quickly, so contact them as early as possible. Irish is taught in most schools, but children who arrive from abroad may be exempt in some cases. Childcare for younger children is costly, though national schemes help reduce fees.

Culture, community and faith

Irish people are known for being friendly, chatty and fond of humour. Conversation often starts with the weather. Pubs are social centres, but you do not have to drink to join in. Sport, especially Gaelic football, hurling, rugby and soccer, is a big part of community life.

International communities are well established. You will find Indian, Filipino, Nigerian, Pakistani and Brazilian associations, churches of many denominations, mosques, temples and gurdwaras, and shops selling familiar foods in all major cities. Many hospitals have networks for international staff that organise social events and offer peer support.

Weather and seasons

Ireland has a mild, changeable climate. Winters are rarely very cold but are dark, windy and wet. Summers are cool, with long evenings of daylight. A good waterproof jacket and layers will serve you better than heavy winter clothing.

Exploring Ireland

Days off are a chance to discover a beautiful country: the Cliffs of Moher, the Wild Atlantic Way, the Ring of Kerry, Connemara, Glendalough and castles in every county. Flights from Dublin, Cork and Shannon make Europe easy to reach for short breaks.

Frequently asked questions