There are three main reasons why international employers should consider hiring in Ireland: First of all, the country’s labour force is young and highly educated. In fact, the country’s population is the youngest in the whole of Europe and according to IDA Ireland, over 53.5% of Ireland’s population aged between 30 and 34 hold a third level qualification, with science, technology, maths and engineering being in high demand. Second, Ireland is considered to be a pro-business country and the Irish economy ranks among the fastest growing economies in Europe. And finally, the country has a very modern telecommunication infrastructure providing the means for an efficient workflow and smooth cooperation processes with remote team members. Employment Contract Irish labour law does not specifically require a written employment contract. However, employers must provide their new employees with a written statement outlining the terms of employment within the first two months after the employee’s first day. The statement should include the following information: Identification of both parties Date of commencement (and employment duration for temporary contracts) Workplace Job title and description Salary and payment details Applying pension scheme Working hours and overtime regulations Total number of holidays Regulations on sick leave and sick pay Notice periods for employment termination Reference to collective agreements Working Hours The legal maximum employees are allowed to work within one week is 48 hours but a standard working week in Ireland comprises 40 hours usually spread over five days. Overtime It is up to the employer and the employee to agree on overtime payment as there is no statutory obligation for employers to grant extra pay for overtime work. Payroll Employees can be paid either weekly or monthly. In no case should payments be issued later than at the end of each month. Minimum Wage Minimum wage in Ireland varies depending on the employee’s age. In January 2024, the minimum wage rates increased to: EUR 14.30 for employees of 20 years and older EUR 12.17 for employees aged 19 EUR 9.04 for employees aged 18 EUR 7.91 for employees under 18