An Introduction to the Training and Work Experience Scheme in Ireland

If you are interested in coming to Ireland to seek employment, you may want to take part in Ireland's Training and Work Experience Scheme (TWES). The TWES is a cooperative program with a number of other countries where young people are given the opportunity to gain education, training, working experience and international knowledge in training schemes run by the national training and employment service. Countries that participate in the TWES with Ireland are Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Finland, Germany, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and the United States. To apply for the program you must be able to show an adequate level of the English language.

The type of training that is offered in the program typically applies to occupations where training leads to professional qualifications. Trainees are expected to have relevant qualifications and are not to replace existing members of the staff.

TWES permits are a specific type of work permit that can only be issued by employers. Recruitment agencies cannot issue TWES permits. Permits are not issued in instances where training can be obtained through full time study. They are also not issued for the sports or entertainment sectors.

To qualify as a trainee, you should be between the ages of 18 and 54. You will need to be at the start of your career. The training or work experience must be for at least 30 hours a week for a certain amount of time. You will occupy a full time position with normal salary and working conditions that are similar to on-the-job training positions.

Positions are only granted for a period of one year, but can sometimes be extended six months.

And to qualify as a work experience application you should be between the ages of 18 and 35. Work experience positions are a bit different in that you will not get a formal qualification, work in a full time position or get salary that is considered normal. Your pay will me more in the form of a cash stipend and considerably lowed than what a normal employee would earn.