Ireland Refugee Board Employment

Employment not only ensures financial stability but also fosters a sense of purpose and belonging, strengthening community connections and facilitating smoother integration into the host country.

The Ireland Refugee Board has consistently advocated for people seeking protection to be allowed to work. In May 2018, the Supreme Court of Ireland declared that the Irish government’s decision to ban people from working indefinitely was unconstitutional. In January 2021, the number of months people had to wait to apply for permission to work was reduced from nine months to six months.

The challenges faced by people seeking protection include the lack of knowledge about the Irish labour market and recruitment processes, non-recognition of prior work experience and qualifications, and limited English language skills. The experience of ‘institutionalisation’ under the Direct Provision system, lack of sufficient childcare support, and inadequate public transport for people living in remote areas also pose significant barriers. Our Employment team provides tailored support to help people navigate these challenges and supports our employment-related advocacy work.

Employment Support

Through our employment programme, we empower refugees and people seeking protection to gain employment through outreach, information sessions, training, casework, mentoring, and referrals to overcome barriers to entering and retaining employment.

We help people understand:

• Their entitlements, Labour Market Access permission, and refugees (including persons with refugee status, subsidiary protection, leave to remain, and family reunification beneficiaries) to work in Ireland.
• Requirements needed for employment, such as opening a bank account, getting qualifications recognised, and registering with professional regulators.
• How much tax they can expect to pay, and how to register with Revenue (the tax office).
• Their employment rights and entitlements; and how to make an employment-related complaint.
• Where else they can get assistance in preparing for and finding employment around Ireland.

Our Impact in 2023

Contact Us

For more information about our employment programme, please email us: