100 signatures reached
To: Department of Justice, Department of Enterprise Trade & Employment, and Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science
Support access to employment for Non-EEA PhD students' spouses in Ireland
PhD students in Ireland, particularly those from non-EU countries, are increasingly struggling to focus on their studies due to financial constraints. The stipends provided often fall short of covering the living expenses for themselves and their families, forcing these students to take on part-time jobs alongside their demanding academic pursuits. This situation compromises their focus and adds undue pressure. We propose that the spouses of non-EU PhD students be granted the right to work in Ireland. Allowing these spouses to enter the workforce would provide crucial financial support for their families, help integrate them into Irish society, and bring diverse skills to the Irish economy.
Other EU nations have adopted flexible regulations that enable spouses of international students to work, as seen in the 2015 Holiday Visa Policy in the European Union. These policies have helped families maintain economic stability while positively contributing to society. It is time for Ireland to adopt a similar approach for the benefit of its international students and the broader community.
Under Ireland’s Family Reunification Policy, non-EEA PhD students are allowed to bring their dependents to Ireland during their doctoral research studies. However, many spouses of these students face the difficult choice of leaving behind highly skilled employment in their home countries to support their partners, only to encounter significant barriers to re-entering the workforce in Ireland. The requirement for a work permit to gain employment presents a major obstacle for these individuals.
While some non-EEA PhD students' spouses are granted immediate access to employment without the need for a work permit, a majority are still restricted due to their spouses not being part of the hosting agreement scheme. Both groups of PhD students, whether on the hosting agreement or not, are equally qualified and contribute significantly to research and development in Ireland. The disparity in treatment based on contract terms is unfair and creates inequality among early career researchers.
We urge the Irish government to review and amend its immigration regulations to allow all non-EEA PhD students’ spouses to work in Ireland without requiring a work permit. Specifically, we request that all non-EEA PhD students’ spouses be granted Stamp 1G, enabling them to access employment without barriers and contribute their skills to the Irish economy.
Why is this important?
Joining our campaign supports fairness and equality by eliminating employment barriers for non-EU PhD students' spouses, who play a crucial role in supporting their partners’ academic pursuits. This change will enhance Ireland’s global appeal, making it a more attractive destination for top talent and strengthening the economy by bringing diverse skills into the workforce. Additionally, it fosters social integration, enriches cultural diversity, and alleviates financial strain on PhD students, allowing them to focus on their research. Advocating for this change sets a positive example of solidarity and progressive policy, demonstrating Ireland’s commitment to inclusivity and encouraging similar measures globally. Sign the petition today to help make a significant difference in the lives of these families and promote a fairer, more inclusive society.