A Guide for International Locums & Consultants

Relocating to Ireland as a healthcare professional is a major life and career decision. Whether you’re returning to Ireland or making the move for the first time, the transition comes with a unique set of challenges—from navigating the Irish healthcare system to securing accommodation, managing finances, and understanding a new tax landscape.

At Beacon Locum Contracting, we specialise in making this journey smooth, efficient, and financially beneficial. Since 2019, we’ve helped hundreds of medical professionals establish their careers and lives in Ireland with expert support and guidance.

Understanding the Irish Healthcare System: A Guide for International Locums & Consultants

Before you take up a locum or consultant role in Ireland, it’s essential to understand how the healthcare system operates.

🏥 Public and Private Sectors

Ireland has a dual healthcare system, consisting of:

• Public healthcare: Managed by the Health Service Executive, referred to as the HSE which provides services in hospitals, GP clinics, and community care settings. Locum roles are commonly available in HSE hospitals and clinics.
• Private healthcare: Includes private hospitals and specialist clinics, often offering more flexibility and potentially higher pay for consultants and GPs.

Many international doctors find roles in both sectors, and Beacon can guide you through contract negotiations and tax implications for each.

📋 Registration Requirements

To practice medicine in Ireland, you must register with the Irish Medical Council (IMC). Depending on your qualifications and experience, you may need:

• General or specialist registration
• English language proficiency
• Recognised postgraduate qualifications

We can connect you with agencies and advisors who facilitate this process quickly and correctly.

💼 Locum Work in Ireland

Locum roles in Ireland are well-compensated and offer flexibility. These positions are often filled through agencies, which we work closely with to place international professionals in roles that match their expertise and lifestyle goals.

We also advise on the best contracting setup—from umbrella company plans to limited company formation—to ensure full compliance and optimal financial outcomes.

How Beacon Locum Contracting Supports Your Transition

We provide a full spectrum of relocation support tailored to healthcare professionals:

🔧 Professional Set-Up

• Assistance connecting with the HSE, private clinics, and medical recruitment agencies
• Guidance on obtaining your PPS number and registering with the Revenue Online Service (ROS)
• Advice on medical indemnity, documentation, and administrative compliance

🏡 Relocation Support

• Support with mortgage applications, banking, and local property insights
• Access to our network of trusted legal, property, and relocation experts
• Practical help with finding housing, schools, amenities, and settling into your new community

💰 Financial Optimisation

• Expert handling of double taxation scenarios and foreign income
• Strategic tax planning to maximise your take-home pay and minimise liabilities
• Assistance with moving funds internationally
• Complete management of tax filings and returns

📩 Make an Enquiry

Why Partner with Beacon Locum Contracting?

We’re not just accountants—we’re your professional partners during one of the most important transitions of your life. Here’s what you gain with us:

✅ Deep expertise in the Irish healthcare sector and tax system
✅ Streamlined processes that save you time and avoid costly mistakes
✅ Personalised support tailored to your unique situation
✅ Maximised financial outcomes through intelligent planning and compliance
✅ Access to a trusted network of legal, property, and recruitment professionals

Our Ongoing Support Services

We offer more than just relocation help. As your career develops, we continue to support your financial wellbeing with:

• Ongoing tax compliance and filing
• Proactive tax and pension planning
• Long-term wealth management strategies
• Advice tailored to consultants, GPs, and private practice owners

Proven Experience You Can Trust

Since founding Beacon Locum Contracting in 2019, Irfan Hameed and our team have guided hundreds of doctors and consultants in relocating to and working in Ireland.

During the COVID-19 pandemic alone, we supported over 300 medical professionals, helping them establish compliant, tax-efficient work arrangements in an unpredictable time. We’ve continued that momentum, building a reputation for integrity, responsiveness, and results.

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Whether you're seeking your first locum role or relocating with your family for the long term, Beacon Locum Contracting is here to support every step of your move to Ireland—professionally, financially, and personally.

📩 Contact us today at to discuss how we can make your transition to Ireland simple, secure, and successful.