False: The vast majority of roles in the Civil and Public Service are open to European Economic Area (EEA) citizens. There are some roles where you have to be an Irish Citizen such as roles in the Diplomatic Stream of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. For information in relation to a specific campaign you will need to refer to the information booklet for that campaign.
Other Mythbusters
Myth 2: Do you need to know someone in order to get into the Civil Service?
False: Our recruitment campaigns are open, objective and fair and we pride ourselves in ensuring that everyone is treated to the same professional, high standards at all stages of the process. All candidates are asked to complete the same standardised assessments, whether it be tests, exercises or an interview, and all candidates are scored in an objective and standardised manner. So bottom line, everyone is treated the same regardless of 'who you are' or 'who you know'. Any candidate that is successful, is successful based entirely on their own merit.
Myth 3: Do you have to be fresh out of college (within 3 years) to apply for the role of Administrative Officer?
False: There are no time or age limits on being an applicant for the Civil Service Administrative Officer role. Once you hold a first or second class honours degree, you can apply for this role.
Myth 4: Do you need to speak Irish to apply for the Civil Service?
False: Being able to speak Irish or have an Irish language qualification is NOT a requirement to apply for a role in the Civil Service. Although, if you are an Irish speaker, there are a number of specific opportunities to work with Irish across the Civil Service. In addition, across many roles, if you do speak Irish or have Irish language skills, you may find there is a demand for your assistance from colleagues in your Department/Office.
Myth 5: Once placed in a Department, are you there for life?
False: Mobility is very important in the career path of a Civil Servant. It is a fast paced environment with quite a bit of movement, people coming in, moving up and moving across. Regularly, there are opportunities arising within and across Departments and Offices, where people can build new experiences, skills and develop their career.