How to Find Work with Zero / Low English (Dublin)

Helpful Content
Purpose: Help students with limited English get safe, legal, entry-level work in Dublin.
Responsible team: Student Success / Admin
Last updated: January 30, 2026
Quick summary
  • Start with routine roles where communication is simple and visual.
  • Reliability matters more than perfect English.
  • Keep your CV to one page and show free time clearly.
  • Always follow your work permissions and keep payslips.
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Who this is for

Students with A1–B1 English who want to work part-time while studying.

If you are not sure this applies to you, contact Student Success for guidance.

Step-by-step

1) Confirm your work permission

Check your immigration stamp and hours allowed. If unsure, contact Student Success before applying.

2) Target low-English roles

Roles that usually require less English:

  • Kitchen porter / dishwasher
  • Cleaning and housekeeping
  • Warehouse packing and stock sorting
  • Food prep assistant
  • Basic back-of-house support

3) Build a very simple CV

Include:

  • Name, phone, email
  • Availability (days and times)
  • Any work history (even informal)
  • One sentence on reliability (on time, responsible)

4) Apply the right way

  • Walk-in applications still work for cafes, small hotels, and local shops.
  • Warehouses, supermarkets, and hotels often require online applications.
  • Respond quickly to calls or messages.

5) Learn the job words you need

Make a small list of the tools and tasks you do each day and learn those words first.

Documents, costs, timelines

Documents
  • Check the official sources for required documents.
Costs and timing
  • Costs and timelines vary. Check official sources or contact Student Success.

Common mistakes (avoid these)

  • Applying without checking your legal work permission
  • Sending long or complex CVs
  • Changing free time every week
  • Not replying to employers quickly

If something goes wrong

Do not wait. Tell us early so we can help you.

  • Write down dates, shifts, and who you spoke to.
  • Ask your manager for clarification if you feel safe.
  • Contact Student Success for help and help.
  • If you feel stuck, contact the Student Success Team.

How ULearn can help

  • Confirm your work permissions
  • Review your CV
  • Practice a simple interview
  • Explain payslips and work documents
  • Student life questions: contact the Student Success Team.
Need help now? Contact Student Success and we will guide you.
Email Student Success

Sources (official)

  • Immigration permission stamps: https://www.irishimmigration.ie/registering-your-immigration-permission/information-on-registering/immigration-permission-stamps/
  • Working as a student (holiday periods): https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-study-in-ireland/what-are-my-study-options/planning-to-study-in-ireland/
  • Payslips (WRC): https://www.workplacerelations.ie/en/what_you_should_know/hours-and-wages/payslips
Disclaimer: Rules can change. Always check the official sources above or contact Student Success if unsure.

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