Ireland is one of the most attractive destinations for international students due to its world-class education system, friendly communities, and opportunities for part-time employment. Many students in Ireland seek flexible jobs that can help them earn extra income without interfering with their studies. If you are a student looking for work opportunities, this guide explores the Top In-Demand and Easy Jobs for Students in Ireland, detailing roles that are accessible, well-paying, and flexible.
Why Students Choose to Work in Ireland
Before diving into the list of jobs, it’s important to understand why students choose to work while st
If you’re a foreigner planning to move to or already living in the United Kingdom, you might be wondering what kind of business you can legally and successfully start. The good news is that the UK offers a business-friendly environment that supports both locals and non-citizens in their entrepreneurial journey. This guide will explore 10 businesses you can start in the UK as a foreigner, highlighting easy-to-understand steps, legal requirements, and profitable sectors.
Whether you’re skilled in services, have retail ideas, or want to go digital, this article will help you get started.
Why Start a Business in the UK?
Before exploring the list of 10 businesses you can start in the UK as a foreigner, it’s important to understand why the UK is one of the best countries for entrepreneurs:
- Favorable tax system for small businesses.
- Strong legal protection for companies and business owners.
- Easy business registration process through Companies House.
- Diverse and international customer base.
- Access to global markets through strong trade links.
Legal Requirements to Start a Business in the UK as a Foreigner
As a foreigner, here are the basic requirements to legally start and operate a business in the UK:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Visa Type | Innovator Founder Visa, Start-Up Visa, or Skilled Worker Visa (if applicable) |
| National Insurance Number | Required for tax and employment purposes |
| Business Registration | Register with Companies House and HMRC |
| Business Bank Account | Essential for separating personal and business finances |
| Tax Compliance | Pay VAT (if turnover is above £90,000) and submit annual returns |
Now let’s go deeper into the 10 businesses you can start in the UK as a foreigner.
1. Food Truck Business
Starting a food truck business in the UK is popular among immigrants, especially in cities like London, Birmingham, and Manchester.
Why It’s a Great Option:
- Low startup costs compared to a restaurant.
- High demand for street food and international cuisines.
- Flexibility in location and menu.
Steps to Start:
- Apply for a street trading license from the local council.
- Get food hygiene certification from the Food Standards Agency.
- Buy or lease a food truck (can range from £5,000 to £20,000).
- Register your business with HMRC or Companies House.
2. Cleaning Services
This is one of the easiest businesses to start with minimal capital and training.
Types of Services:
- Residential cleaning
- Office cleaning
- Carpet and window cleaning
What You Need:
- Basic cleaning supplies and equipment
- Liability insurance
- A website or local ads for customer outreach
Target Audience: Busy families, offices, landlords, and property managers.
3. Online Retail Store
The UK has a massive eCommerce market, making it ideal for foreigners to start online shops.
Best Platforms:
- Shopify
- WooCommerce
- Amazon UK
- eBay
What to Sell:
- Clothes and accessories
- Electronics
- Handmade products
- Niche cultural items
Important: You must register for VAT if your sales exceed the UK threshold (£90,000 in 2025).
4. Courier or Delivery Service
If you own or can lease a vehicle, courier services are a lucrative business.
Business Model Options:
- Work as a subcontractor for big companies like Hermes, DPD, or Amazon Logistics
- Start an independent local courier business
What You Need:
- Valid driving license
- Business insurance and courier vehicle insurance
- Smartphone and route planner
This business can grow by hiring other drivers and expanding service areas.
5. Hair and Beauty Salon
If you have skills in beauty therapy or hairstyling, this is a good business to start in any UK city or town.
Services to Offer:
- Haircuts and styling
- Manicure and pedicure
- Makeup and facials
- Eyelash extensions
Setup Requirements:
- Salon premises or mobile setup
- Local council license (if applicable)
- Hygiene and safety certificates
Note: You can start from home or offer mobile services to reduce overhead costs.
6. Tutoring Services
Education is highly valued in the UK. Foreigners with academic or language skills can start a tutoring business.
Subjects in Demand:
- English as a Second Language (ESL)
- Mathematics and Science
- Exam prep (GCSE, A-Levels)
- Coding and IT
Modes of Delivery:
- Online tutoring (via Zoom or Skype)
- In-person home tutoring
- Small-group classes
Register as a sole trader and get a DBS check if working with children.
7. Import and Export Business
This is one of the most profitable businesses you can start in the UK as a foreigner, especially if you have connections in your home country.
Products to Import:
- Spices and food products
- Textiles and clothing
- Electronics
Key Requirements:
- Apply for an EORI number for customs clearance
- Understand UK import duties and tax
- Partner with a reliable shipping agent
You can start small and grow into wholesale or retail distribution.
8. Translation and Interpretation Services
If you are fluent in multiple languages, you can provide translation services to:
- Government departments
- Immigration services
- Hospitals and schools
- Law firms
Requirements:
- Language certification (like CIOL or NRPSI is preferred)
- Professional liability insurance
- Build a portfolio or register on freelance platforms
You can also offer document translation and website localization services.
9. Construction or Handyman Services
There is a high demand for skilled laborers, especially in property maintenance and renovation.
Services to Offer:
- Painting and decorating
- Carpentry
- Plumbing and electrical repairs
- Tiling and flooring
What You Need:
- Trade experience or certifications (e.g., CSCS card)
- Toolkits and work van
- Public liability insurance
Many foreigners successfully run these businesses in both residential and commercial markets.
10. Mobile Phone Repair and Accessories Business
With millions of mobile users in the UK, this is a high-demand, low-cost startup.
Services to Offer:
- Screen and battery replacements
- Unlocking and software services
- Selling phone accessories
Startup Tips:
- Start from a small kiosk or rented shop
- Get basic repair training (if needed)
- Use Facebook Marketplace and Google Ads to attract customers
This business is profitable and easy to scale up with low overheads.
Summary Table of the 10 Best Businesses You Can Start in the UK as a Foreigner
| Business Type | Startup Cost | Skill Needed | Profit Potential |
|---|---|---|---|
| Food Truck Business | Moderate (£5k–£20k) | Cooking/management | High |
| Cleaning Services | Low | Basic skills | Moderate |
| Online Retail Store | Low to Moderate | Marketing/sourcing | High |
| Courier or Delivery Service | Low | Driving/license | Moderate to High |
| Hair and Beauty Salon | Moderate | Beauty therapy | High |
| Tutoring Services | Low | Academic/language | Moderate |
| Import and Export Business | Moderate | Networking/logistics | High |
| Translation Services | Low | Language skills | Moderate |
| Construction/Handyman Services | Moderate | Trade skills | High |
| Mobile Phone Repair Business | Low | Technical/repair | Moderate to High |
Final Thoughts
Starting a business in the UK as a foreigner is not only possible—it can also be highly profitable. The country offers the tools, support, and legal structure needed for foreigners to thrive. Whether you want to run a physical business like a food truck or a digital store from your living room, you have options.
To succeed:
- Choose a business based on your skills.
- Start small and scale gradually.
- Comply with all UK business laws.
- Market your services locally and online.
The 10 businesses you can start in the UK as a foreigner listed above are just the beginning. With passion, planning, and persistence, your business dream can become a reality in the United Kingdom.
udying in Ireland:
- To support living expenses
- To gain valuable work experience
- To improve communication and interpersonal skills
- To integrate into Irish society and culture
The Irish government allows full-time students to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and up to 40 hours per week during holidays, making it a perfect opportunity to earn while studying.
Factors That Make a Job Student-Friendly
Here are the key factors that make a job suitable for students:
- Flexible working hours
- Minimal experience required
- Training provided on the job
- Close proximity to university campuses
- Weekly or bi-weekly payments
- Opportunities for skill development
These factors were taken into account when creating this list of the Top In-Demand and Easy Jobs for Students in Ireland.
1. Retail Assistant
Retail jobs are one of the most common and easy-to-find roles for students.
Responsibilities:
- Stocking shelves
- Assisting customers
- Operating cash registers
- Keeping the store clean
Benefits:
- No experience usually required
- Flexible shifts (morning/evening)
- Good communication skill development
Average Pay: €10–€13 per hour
Where to Find:
- Tesco
- Dunnes Stores
- Lidl
- SuperValu
2. Barista / Café Staff
Working in a coffee shop or local café is perfect for students who enjoy a lively environment.
Responsibilities:
- Making coffee and beverages
- Taking orders
- Cleaning and organizing
Benefits:
- High demand in cities and towns
- Free meals or drinks included
- Part-time shifts available
Average Pay: €10–€14 per hour
Popular Chains:
- Starbucks
- Costa Coffee
- Insomnia Coffee
- Local cafés near universities
3. Delivery Rider / Food Courier
If you own a bicycle or scooter, this job offers flexibility and minimal interaction.
Responsibilities:
- Picking up and delivering food orders
- Navigating city streets using an app
- Ensuring timely delivery
Benefits:
- Set your own working hours
- Minimal supervision
- Keep 100% of your tips
Average Pay: €12–€18 per hour (including tips)
Companies Hiring:
- Deliveroo
- Just Eat
- Uber Eats
4. Supermarket Staff
Working in supermarkets can include roles such as cashier, cleaner, or shelf-stocker.
Responsibilities:
- Managing checkout counters
- Replenishing goods
- Cleaning and maintenance
Benefits:
- Steady demand for workers
- Suitable for evening and weekend shifts
- Friendly team-based work environment
Average Pay: €11–€14 per hour
Employers:
- Aldi
- Lidl
- Centra
- Spar
5. Tutor or Teaching Assistant
If you are good at a particular subject, tutoring can be both rewarding and profitable.
Responsibilities:
- Helping other students with assignments
- Conducting study sessions
- Assisting professors with grading (for TAs)
Benefits:
- Flexible hours
- Great for building your resume
- Higher pay rate
Average Pay: €15–€30 per hour
Where to Offer Services:
- Tutor websites
- University tutoring centers
- Social media groups
6. Event Staff / Usher
This job involves working at concerts, sports events, or exhibitions.
Responsibilities:
- Managing crowds
- Checking tickets
- Providing directions
Benefits:
- Free entry to major events
- Short, engaging shifts
- Great for social students
Average Pay: €10–€15 per hour
Common Employers:
- Event agencies
- Stadiums
- Theatres and concert halls
7. Cleaning Staff / Janitor
Though physically demanding, cleaning jobs are straightforward and in constant demand.
Responsibilities:
- Cleaning classrooms, offices, or homes
- Emptying bins
- Mopping and vacuuming
Benefits:
- Early morning or night shifts available
- Minimal supervision
- Doesn’t require customer interaction
Average Pay: €11–€14 per hour
Employers:
- Universities
- Offices
- Residential apartments
- Cleaning agencies
8. Call Center Representative
If you have good English-speaking skills, call centers often look for part-time workers.
Responsibilities:
- Answering customer queries
- Managing complaints
- Providing information
Benefits:
- Office-based experience
- Skill development in communication
- Bonuses for performance
Average Pay: €12–€16 per hour
Companies Hiring:
- Teleperformance
- Voxpro
- Irish banks and utility companies
9. Babysitter / Child Minder
For responsible and caring individuals, babysitting offers high hourly rates and flexibility.
Responsibilities:
- Watching children
- Helping with homework
- Preparing meals or snacks
Benefits:
- Work during evenings or weekends
- Usually in-home setting
- Regular clients possible
Average Pay: €12–€20 per hour
Where to Find Jobs:
- Local communities
- Websites like MindMe.ie
- Family referrals
10. Library Assistant
University libraries sometimes hire students to manage desks or organize books.
Responsibilities:
- Issuing and returning books
- Managing records
- Assisting with queries
Benefits:
- Quiet work environment
- Flexible hours during academic terms
- Located on campus
Average Pay: €10–€13 per hour
Employers:
- Campus libraries
- Local public libraries
Comparison Table: Student-Friendly Jobs in Ireland
| Job Title | Avg Pay (€/hr) | Flexibility | Experience Needed | Interaction Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Retail Assistant | 10–13 | Medium | Low | High |
| Barista | 10–14 | Medium | Low | High |
| Food Courier | 12–18 | High | Very Low | Low |
| Supermarket Staff | 11–14 | Medium | Low | Medium |
| Tutor/Teaching Asst. | 15–30 | High | High (Skill-based) | Medium |
| Event Staff | 10–15 | High | Low | High |
| Cleaning Staff | 11–14 | High | Very Low | Low |
| Call Center Agent | 12–16 | Medium | Medium | Very High |
| Babysitter | 12–20 | High | Low (some trust) | High |
| Library Assistant | 10–13 | Medium | Low | Low |
How to Find These Jobs in Ireland
Students can search for jobs through the following platforms:
Online Job Portals:
- Indeed.ie
- Jobs.ie
- IrishJobs.ie
- StudentJob.ie
University Career Centres:
- University job boards
- Part-time openings on-campus
Local Networks:
- Facebook groups (e.g., “Dublin Student Jobs”)
- Word of mouth through classmates
- Flyers and posters on noticeboards
Tips for Getting Hired Fast
- Prepare a simple CV with part-time work focus.
- Apply early in the semester before the job market becomes saturated.
- Be open to different roles and explore multiple options.
- Dress appropriately for interviews, even informal ones.
- Get Irish references quickly by doing volunteer or temp work first.
Final Thoughts
Working while studying in Ireland is not just about making money—it’s a chance to build work experience, learn life skills, and enjoy your time in a vibrant, welcoming country. The jobs listed in this article are ideal for students who are looking for part-time, easy, and flexible employment. Whether you want to serve coffee, tutor a classmate, or deliver pizza, you can find something that suits your schedule and interests.
By choosing from the Top In-Demand and Easy Jobs for Students in Ireland, you can strike a healthy balance between your academic responsibilities and financial goals—without stress.