Abena: Ireland-Based Registered Nurse Shares Updates on Recruitment, Immigration & Life Abroad
Abena is a registered nurse living in Ireland and a returning guest on SVTV Africa’s Daily Hustle Worldwide with DJ Nyaami. Speaking on the show, she revealed major changes affecting international nurses, midwives, asylum seekers, and families hoping to migrate to Ireland.
According to Abena, many nurses who started the process from Ghana and other African countries now have to go back and restart everything because most international nursing and midwifery decision letters have expired. Some nurses had just two months left to finish their process, but lost their chance due to the new system.
She explained that previously, when Ireland recruited nurses from Ghana, employers refunded registration fees, flight tickets, and even provided accommodation. However, things have changed drastically. For a long period, Ireland stopped hiring from “red-list’’ countries like Ghana. When the embargo was finally lifted, they reduced recruitment support, and now they only hire selectively.
Abena emphasized that IELTS results expire in two years, and the decision letter is valid for only one year. If it expires before the nurse arrives in Ireland, the person must start the entire process again.
Abena also highlighted new, strict rules introduced by the Irish government regarding asylum seekers and immigrants:
Previously, asylum seekers could gain citizenship within 2–3 years.Now, it takes 5 years.
The same 5-year wait applies to nurses and skilled workers applying for permanent residency or citizenship.
Anyone who receives government support for more than two years may be denied citizenship — Ireland now wants migrants to be financially independent.
The amount required to bring family members has increased significantly:
Over €30,000 annual income to bring a spouse.
€36,000 per year if you have one child.
A new rule states that children above 16 years old will be given a work permit, making it easier for them to support themselves.
It is now possible to bring parents (mother or father) to Ireland, but the financial requirements are strict.
Authorities are doing more checks in malls and public places because many businesses hire illegal immigrants.
Abena noted that the cost of living in Ireland remains very high.
Rent is expensive, and many people are forced to live in single rooms.
She lives in a three-bedroom house with her family and pays €1,900 per month, which is considered good for a family home.
Nurses and midwives are paid based on experience, so those who worked many years in Ghana benefit when they move.
Abena is currently on maternity leave and has two children. Despite the challenges, she believes that preparation, correct documentation, and realistic expectations are key for anyone wishing to migrate.
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