Ireland CV Format: What Recruiters Expect
Irish CVs are close to UK conventions: two pages, no photo, and a focus on achievements. International applicants should state their immigration permission clearly, since many employers need to know whether a work permit is required.
Length
2 pages. Graduates can keep it to 1–2.
Photo
No. Irish employers don't expect a photo.
Include
- City/county and phone number with country code if you're abroad
- Immigration permission, e.g. Stamp 4, Stamp 1G, or Critical Skills Employment Permit eligibility
- A short personal statement
- Leaving Certificate results if you're a recent school leaver or graduate
- Qualifications with their level on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) where helpful
Leave out
- Photo
- Date of birth, age or marital status
- PPS number
- Full references — "available on request" is enough
Section order for a Ireland CV
- Contact details and immigration status
- Personal statement
- Key skills
- Work experience
- Education
- Additional information
- References available on request
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Explain your permission to work
State your stamp or permit type (e.g. "Stamp 4 — no employment permit required"). If you'd need a Critical Skills or General Employment Permit, say whether your role is eligible.
Translate overseas qualifications
Irish employers may not know foreign grading systems. Where possible, give the equivalent NFQ level or describe the degree plainly.
Keep it to two pages
Recruiters in Ireland expect a tight, two-page CV with recent roles in the most detail and older roles summarised.
Match the job ad's language
Large Irish employers and multinationals use ATS. Use the same skill and tool names as the job description.
Where to apply in Ireland
Most large employers on these sites screen with ATS software. Match the job ad's wording — our job description keyword extractor pulls out the terms to use.
FAQ
Should an Irish CV have a photo?
No. Leave out photos and personal details like age and marital status.
How long should a CV be in Ireland?
Two pages is the standard.
Do I need to put my visa status on my CV?
If you're not an Irish or EU/EEA citizen, yes — state your stamp or permit so employers know if sponsorship is needed.
Check your CV against Ireland standards
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