How to register as a Physiotherapist in Ireland

Written in part for SA2Eire by a Member

One of our active and very helpful members, Fran Theron, has been in Ireland many years now, as well as that she assists with regsitering non EU members as Physios.

As a Physiotherapist herself, she is able to give guidance on the the process of getting registered in Ireland so that you are able to seek work and a work permit if needed (non-EU passport holders).

Who needs to register?

Whether you hold an EU, Irish, British or South African passport, you will need to be registered with CORU (the Health and Social Care Professionals Council) before you can work as a Physiotherapist in Ireland. Registration is a legal requirement for all practising physiotherapists regardless of nationality.

For South African only passport holders, you will need a valid employment permit and entry visa in place before you can work here, and CORU registration will need to be completed as part of that process. Registration with CORU is typically required before or alongside your work permit application. Also have a read of the conditions of that work permit linked below.

If you hold an Irish, British or EU passport, you do not need a work permit but you will still need to complete CORU registration before you can practise.

Downloads

You can download the 3 PDFs provided by Fran below. Please note these were last updated in November 2023. While the core information remains relevant, we recommend verifying any fees, timelines or specific requirements directly with CORU at www.coru.ie as these can change.

1. Information for Physiotherapists thinking about coming to work in Ireland — updated Nov 2023
2. Information for Physiotherapy Students studying outside Ireland — updated Nov 2023
3. Studying Physiotherapy / Working as a Physiotherapist — Nov 2023

These PDFs cover:

1. Requirements to Work as a Physiotherapist in Ireland
2. European Professional Card
3. Irish Society of Chartered Physiotherapists Membership
4. ISCP and CORU differences — at a glance
5. Employment Permit
6. Ionising Radiation and MRI Referral
7. Health Services in Ireland
8. Public Health Sector
9. Private Health Sector
10. Continuing Professional Development
11. Contact the Professional Practice Unit