Working holiday authorisation - hospitality and culinary pilot
Work in the Irish hospitality sector for up to 12 months
The Department of Foreign Affairs and the Irish Hotels Federation (IHF) have partnered to create a new pilot programme for Working Holiday Authorisation applications with backgrounds in culinary or hospitality studies.
About the pilot programme
The Working Holiday Authorisation (WHA) Programme allows eligible US citizens to live and work in Ireland for a period of up to twelve months. This programme reflects not only the close historical and cultural ties between Ireland and the US, but also the vibrancy of the modern transatlantic relationship.
This pilot programme, which is supported by the Irish Hotels Federation, provides eligible students and graduates from the culinary and hospitality sectors with a unique opportunity to secure employment and accommodation in Ireland’s world-leading tourism and hospitality industry, before their arrival in Ireland.
Why should you choose to work in the Irish hospitality sector?
Ireland is renowned for its rich hospitality and world-class tourism offering, which includes and this programme provides an opportunity to be part of these celebrated industries.
Ireland’s tourism and hospitality industry supports one in ten of all Irish jobs, making this a great time for new talent to join the industry in Ireland
You would be joining one of the most educated workforces in the world and one of the youngest in Europe.
Working in the renowned Irish hospitality sector would be an asset on any résumé.
Where can participants work?
Positions are available across the Irish hospitality sector, including:
Bar and restaurant
- Shift leaders
- Food and beverage assistants
- Bartenders
- Lounge assistants
Kitchen
- Commis chefs
- Chefs de parties
- Sous chefs
Conference and banqueting
- Supervisors
- Co-ordinators
- Porters
Accommodation
- Supervisors
- Assistants
Front office
- Shift leaders
- Receptionists
What can you expect from participating in this programme?
Successful applicants will be provided with a contract of employment at a leading Irish hotel for between six months and one year, with competitive remuneration based on qualifications and experience. Here, they will receive full on boarding plus ongoing training and development.
Along with providing students and graduates with excellent experience in the Irish hospitality industry, this programme also provides opportunities for participants to travel, immense themselves in a different culture, and make new friends.
How to apply
Interested candidates should submit a cover letter stating: expression of interest, background, desired positions and availability to start accompanied by a copy of their résumé with two references, to chicagowha@dfa.ie.
A full list of frequently asked questions about the WHA programme, including further information on the application process is available on the main Working Holiday Authorisation page.