13% of online searches for jobs in Ireland coming from outside country, says report

Foreign workers continue to show huge interest in working in the country

Indeed economist Jack Kennedy said hybrid and flexible working have moved from a perk to an expectation. Picture: Fennell Photography

Some 13% of online searches for jobs in Ireland now originates outside the country - showing how the Irish jobs market remains a major attraction to foreign workers.

The data was included in research from recruitment company Indeed's 2026 Trends Report, which was published on Tuesday. The report also found that over one in 10 (11%) job postings in Ireland mentions AI, more than equivalent job postings in the US, UK, France, and Germany, reflecting the tech sector’s sizable footprint in the Irish economy.

Job postings which mention AI are most frequently seen in tech-related categories, led by data & analytics (56%), followed by software development (48%), IT systems & solutions (37%), and IT infrastructure, and operations & support (29%).7

Several non-tech categories also have significant shares of AI postings, including arts & entertainment (24%), human resources (20%), and sales (19%).

"AI is rapidly reshaping how work gets done, with a clear expectation emerging for workers across all sectors to be comfortable using AI tools, even in roles that aren’t traditionally tech-focused. Those who adapt to these skills will have a competitive edge, as employers increasingly seek ways to integrate AI into their processes," said Indeed economist Jack Kennedy.

The research also shows that remote and hybrid work mentions reached a new high of 19.4% by the end of December 2025 – more than four times higher than pre-pandemic levels. The occupations with the highest share of remote or hybrid mentions include software development (47%), media & communications (44%), and data & analytics (43%).

Indeed’s report shows that while job postings in Ireland are well down from peaks seen in early 2022, they still remain 7% above their pre-pandemic baseline as of January 2026. The level of postings has also remained relatively stable since May.

The share of Irish job postings which include salary information has dipped recently to around 34%, its lowest since late-2022, though incoming EU legislation is expected to result in increased transparency.

“Jobs are still being created, unemployment remains low, but pay pressures haven’t gone away. For workers and employers alike, this year’s labour market story is one of ongoing change and adaptability," said Mr Kennedy.

"From an employer perspective, hybrid and flexible working have moved from a perk to an expectation in 2026, and employers will need to keep this in mind when recruiting. The organisations that will stand out will be those offering not just competitive salaries, but transparency, flexibility and support for employees navigating a rapidly changing work environment.”

A report by Dublin Chamber published on Monday found hybrid working remains firmly embedded across the capital's business community. Dublin Chamber’s latest Business Outlook Survey found that nearly four-in-five businesses (78%) now operate a hybrid working model. Fully on-site working for roles where remote working is feasible, remains limited, while fully remote arrangements also continue to account for a relatively small share of firms in the region.

While the use of hybrid working is widespread, the chamber reported more and more firms adopting a more structured approach to its use, with set or minimum in-office days becoming the dominant practice. It said this reflects a growing focus on collaboration and culture while still recognising the value of flexibility for staff.