If you’re looking for steady, physical work that doesn’t require any previous experience, potato picking and grading roles in Ireland offer hourly pay ranging from €11.50 to €14, depending on the job type. These positions are fully on-site, hands-on roles where employers welcome beginners and provide all the training you need.
Why Potato Picking in Ireland?
Ireland’s potato farming industry is expanding, but finding local labor for harvesting and grading is an ongoing challenge. This creates a steady demand for reliable foreign workers. In 2026, farms are expected to hire extensively for the harvest season (typically late summer to autumn) and for year-round packing roles. This is your chance to fill a vital role in a key Irish industry.
Job Overview: What You’ll Do
There are two primary types of roles available:
- Potato Picking (Field Work): This is an outdoor, physical role. Tasks include:
- Harvesting potatoes by hand or with machinery.
- Sorting potatoes during collection.
- Lifting and stacking bags or crates.
- Working in a team, often in varying weather conditions.
- Grading and Packing (Shed Work): This is an indoor role, typically less physically demanding. Tasks include:
- Inspecting potatoes on a conveyor belt for quality.
- Sorting them by size and appearance.
- Removing damaged produce.
- Packaging and labeling crates for shipment.
Who Can Apply?
These roles are ideal for:
- Unskilled workers and seasonal job seekers.
- Individuals aged 18 to 45 (preferred by most employers).
- People with basic English communication skills.
- Those who are physically fit and willing to work outdoors.
Requirements: A valid passport, a clean background, and eligibility for a work visa. Previous experience is a bonus but not required, as on-the-job training is provided.
Check Also: Potato Picking and Grading Jobs in UK for Foreigners
Visa Sponsorship Information:
To work legally in Ireland, non-EU/EEA citizens typically need an employment permit. The most relevant pathway for these roles is the General Employment Permit.
- It requires a full-time job offer from an Irish employer.
- It is valid for two years and can be renewed.
- Employers often handle much of the sponsorship paperwork.
Discussions about a dedicated Seasonal Work Permit are ongoing, which could make the process even easier
Salary and Benefits:
You can expect competitive pay and good working conditions:
| Job Type | Hourly Pay | Monthly Estimate (Full-Time) |
|---|---|---|
| Field Picking | €11.50 – €13.50 | €1,800 – €2,300 |
| Grading/Packing | €12.00 – €14.00 | €1,900 – €2,500 |
Additional Benefits Often Include:
- Accommodation: Often provided on-site (sometimes free, sometimes at a low cost of €50-€80/week).
- Overtime Pay: Higher rates after 39-40 hours of work per week.
- Support: Protective gear (gloves, boots) and sometimes transport to the worksite.
- Steady Work: Regular shifts of 8-10 hours per day, often with a 6-day workweek.
Where are the Jobs?
Key hiring counties in 2026 include:
- Wexford: Known for large-scale potato farms.
- Cork & Tipperary: Strong demand for both field and shed workers.
- Meath & Kildare: Proximity to Dublin with many packing warehouses.
- Louth: Have employers experienced with hiring migrant workers?
Visa Requirements:
- Job Offer: You must have a full-time job offer from an Irish employer for a period of at least 12 months. The employer must be a legitimate business trading in Ireland and registered with the Revenue Commissioners.
- Labour Market Needs Test: The employer is required to first prove they could not find a suitable candidate from the European Economic Area (EEA) to fill the position. This is done by advertising the job for at least 28 days on the Department of Social Protection’s jobs portal and a secondary online platform.
- Minimum Salary: The job must meet the minimum annual remuneration threshold. For horticultural operatives, this is an exception to the general minimum, and the job must pay at least €30,000 per year.
- Employee Qualifications: You must have the relevant qualifications, skills, or experience for the job. For potato picking and grading, this would likely be demonstrated through previous work history or references.
- Visa and Entry Requirements: If your country of origin requires a visa to enter Ireland, you must apply for a D visa after your employment permit has been approved
How to Apply For Potato Picking and Grading Jobs in Ireland For Foreigners?
Follow these steps to secure your position:
- Prepare Your Documents:
- A simple, clear CV/Resume (include a photo).
- A copy of your passport.
- Any reference letters from previous work (if available).
- Search on Trusted Job Portals:
- Use keywords like “potato farm jobs Ireland visa sponsorship” or “agricultural worker Ireland.”
- Recommended websites:
- JobsIreland.ie (Official government site)
- AgriRecruit.ie, (Specialist in farm work)
- Indeed.ie and IrishJobs.ie (General job boards)
- Apply Directly: Some smaller farms advertise on their own websites or social media pages (e.g., Facebook). A polite, direct inquiry can sometimes be effective.
- Interview and Visa Process: If selected, you will likely have a phone or video interview. The employer will then guide you through the visa sponsorship process.
Conclusion:
Ireland’s potato harvest offers fair pay, simple entry requirements, and steady, hands-on work for anyone ready to start fresh. With visa sponsorship, accommodation options, and supportive farm teams, the path is straightforward and secure. If you’re seeking a meaningful experience in a peaceful countryside setting, this opportunity brings work, stability, and a new way of life together.
Frequently Asked Questions:
-
Do I need experience to apply?
No. These are entry-level positions. Employers are looking for reliability and a strong work ethic more than specific experience. Training is provided.
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What is the average salary?
You can expect to earn between €11.50 and €14.00 per hour, depending on the specific role (picking vs. packing) and the employer. Overtime is often available at a higher rate.
