Every year, over 5,000 Irish students apply for a J1 Summer Work and Travel visa to the United States. But in 2025, a growing number are turning away from the American dream—and looking closer to home.
Why Irish students are saying no to the J1
The traditional rite of passage—a summer of working and partying in the U.S.—is losing its shine. The reason? Trump-era immigration policies and a sense of insecurity.
Adam Brennan, a 19-year-old Dubliner, had planned his J1 trip for after his exams in June. Now, he says there's "no way I'm going to go." His concerns echo a wider sentiment:
- Fear of entry denial or arrest: Stories of travelers being picked up off the street or denied entry for vague reasons have spooked students.
- Political discomfort: Many young Irish disagree with the current administration's policies and treatment of people.
- Safety worries: Parents are increasingly anxious, too.
Brennan sums it up: "You hear all sorts of stories... I would be gutted if I wasted my time and money getting over there for something like that to happen."
The European alternative: freedom of movement in action
Instead of the U.S., Brennan is now looking at the Netherlands. He's not alone. Thousands of Irish students are choosing European destinations because of EU freedom of movement rights.
Irish citizens have the right to live and work in any EU member state.
This is a major advantage. There are no complex visa applications, no uncertainty at borders—just a seamless transition to a new country. Plus, Europe offers cultural diversity and easy travel between nations.
"Europe is so much better in every way," says Brennan. "There are so many different countries and cultures, and you can travel so easily between them."
Making the move: practical steps for students
If you're a student considering a European working holiday, here are key resources to get started:
- EURES network: A European job mobility portal that helps with finding work and moving abroad.
- European Solidarity Corps: For volunteers aged 18–30, offering funded projects at home or abroad.
- MEP internships: No central application—contact MEPs directly, ideally in August for the new parliamentary session.
Language and qualifications
- For EU traineeships, you typically need a university degree and proficiency in two EU languages: one at native level (C2) and another at B2–C1.
- For jobs, speaking a second language and having relevant experience are major advantages.
A new generation looks east
Leaving Cert student Rachel Keane echoes the trend. "I never considered the U.S.—and with all that is going on there now, I definitely wouldn't go," she says. She's applied to several places in Europe and is excited about her upcoming adventure.
"Europe and the UK feel much more like home," Keane adds. "It's great to know that if I ever want to come back for a weekend, it's only a short flight away."
The big picture: a shift in travel patterns
This isn't just a blip. It's a generational shift driven by political realities and the tangible benefits of EU membership. Irish students are discovering that Europe offers what the U.S. once did—opportunity, adventure, and a welcoming environment—without the immigration headaches.
As one student put it: "Trump has probably done me a favour by making me rethink."