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On International Migrants Day we highlight some of the researchers who have availed of EURAXESS Ireland services.
EURAXESS Ireland offers free advice and assistance to migrant workers coming to live and work in Ireland as researchers in our Univeristies, IOTs and Industry. The office gives researchers and R&D personnel information on immigration, naturalisation, work permits and other practical matters like schooling, housing, healthcare, banking etc. One of the key services of EURAXESS Ireland for migrant researchers from outside the EU is a Fast Track Work Permit for R&D. To date, over 4700 highly specialised migrant researchers have been hired on a fast track permit called a 'Hosting Agreement'.
“Removing obstacles to the mobility of researchers is a key element of Ireland’s science and technology policy. It can be daunting moving to a new country to work and live and we provide practical support and guidance to researchers and their families making their transition easier, and in some cases, possible.” Dr Magda Wislocka, Head of EURAXESS Ireland.
The Hosting Agreement System is managed on behalf of the Department of Business Enterprise and Innovation (DBEI) by EURAXESS Ireland. The benefits of the scheme are many. Visa processing time is shorter with no need to apply separately to DBEI for a work permit. The duration of employment can be from as short as 3 months to a permanent role. The minimum salary level is much lower compared to other work permission schemes in Ireland and the researcher’s spouse and children can join them immediately avoiding long periods of separation from family members.
Researchers from countries as diverse as China, Afghanistan and Africa have availed of the EURAXESS Ireland services as featured below:
JIE KANG, CHINA & TEAGASC
Mohd Salim Saay, Afganistan & University of Limerick
SALLY OCHOLA, KENYA & TRINITY COLLEGE DUBLIN