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Courses
Courses
Choosing a course is one of the most important decisions you'll ever make! View our courses and see what our students and lecturers have to say about the courses you are interested in at the links below.
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University Life
University Life
Each year more than 4,000 choose University of Galway as their University of choice. Find out what life at University of Galway is all about here.
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About University of Galway
About University of Galway
Since 1845, University of Galway has been sharing the highest quality teaching and research with Ireland and the world. Find out what makes our University so special – from our distinguished history to the latest news and campus developments.
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Colleges & Schools
Colleges & Schools
University of Galway has earned international recognition as a research-led university with a commitment to top quality teaching across a range of key areas of expertise.
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Research & Innovation
Research & Innovation
University of Galway’s vibrant research community take on some of the most pressing challenges of our times.
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Business & Industry
Guiding Breakthrough Research at University of Galway
We explore and facilitate commercial opportunities for the research community at University of Galway, as well as facilitating industry partnership.
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Alumni & Friends
Alumni & Friends
There are 128,000 University of Galway alumni worldwide. Stay connected to your alumni community! Join our social networks and update your details online.
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Community Engagement
Community Engagement
At University of Galway, we believe that the best learning takes place when you apply what you learn in a real world context. That's why many of our courses include work placements or community projects.
Accessibility & LanguageHosting Agreements
Hosting Agreement: General Queries
NOTE: You can search keywords by using CTRL+F.
Hosting Agreement Application Form
Hosting Agreement Form (for PI to complete)
What is a hosting agreement (HA)?
The hosting agreement replaces the need for researchers and the University applying for annual work permits as the agreement is valid for the duration of the employment contract. The hosting agreement has the same benefits as the Green Card, for example, immediate family re-unification and application for residency after two years.
Who does the hosting agreement apply to?
The Hosting Agreement applies to:
- Non-EEA nationals employed in research
- Academic staff involved in research
- Visiting researchers / over 3 months stay
Who needs a hosting agreement?
If you do not currently have permission to work in Ireland; Immigration permission/stamps - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie), the University will apply for a hosting agreement for you on your behalf.
Who needs a visa VISA to enter Ireland?
Nationals of certain countries require an entry visa to Ireland in addition to a Hosting Agreement. You do not need a visa to land in Ireland if you are a citizen of a country listed in this table.
What are the benefits of a hosting agreement?
- Processed by the University (HR) within 1-2 weeks.
- After two years on a Hosting Agreement, researchers can apply for a Stamp 4for a further two years, renewable after that point. This immigration status offers increased flexibility and makes it easier for researchers to move between sectors and employers without the need for any working permission or a new Hosting Agreement.
How to apply for a hosting agreement?
- To apply for a hosting agreement, your PI (or line manager) will need to complete Hosting-Agreement-application-Form.docx (live.com) and return to HR.
- You will need to provide a copy of your signed contract and passport along with the above form to initiate your application.
Where can I find the work permit application number for hosting agreement?
The work permit application number is located in the top left of your hosting agreement. Euraxess will also reference it in their emails. The format is NUIGXXXXX.
Are there any Fees?
There is no approval process or fee (however the researcher must still pay €300 to register with the immigration).
How long is the hosting agreement valid for?
For the duration of the contract being offered. Please note if the contract is extended, the HA will also need to be extended.
How long does it take for a hosting agreement to be approved?
After you complete the personal section on the platform, the hosting agreement should be approved within one week. However this is just permission to work in Ireland, and some applicants will also need to obtain visa permission to enter Ireland.
Visa-required nationals, will require both Hosting Agreement + Visa to be in place prior to commencement.
I want to hire someone currently on a hosting agreement (HA) with University of Galway, will this automatically transfer to their new offer?
No, the current HA will need to be extended by HR in line with the new offer details; otherwise, it will end on the employees current contract's end date.
Make sure to flag to HR and they will organise the extension.
If the candidate is on a hosting agreement (HA) with another University in Ireland, will they need a new HA to work for University of Galway?
If the candidate already has a work permit do they still require a hosting agreement?
It may depend on their current permit and if they are permitted to work full-time. If so, the choice
Does the hosting agreement replace a visa or registration with the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB)?
No, the HA does not replace a visa or registration with the GNIB. The College cannot assist in securing visas. If necessary, a visa must be secured before travelling. Researchers with an HA must register upon arrival and annually with their local GNIB office.
My question isn’t answered above, who can I contact?
Please review Hosting Agreement FAQs - Euraxess, if your query isn’t answered here you can contact your recruitment consultant (who issued your contract) for advice.
Further Employee FAQ's available here: Hosting Agreement FAQ's - University of Galway
