02 November 2022

Recognition of international qualifications

CORU approves applications for recognition of international qualifications for dispensing opticians and optometrists. Since the beginning of 2022, in the context of an acute workforce crisis, 7 dispensing opticians and 51 optometrists have applied to practise in Ireland through this route. Many of these will require a period of adaptation (POA) - a period of supervised practice to address any deficits identified in the standards of proficiency.

FODO has received complaints from several non-EU/EEA applicants about a Catch-22 whereby applicants need a work visa to undertake the POA but must have completed it before they can apply for a work visa.

The Department of Health and the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment say this is for the sector to work out with CORU. So, FODO has written to CORU to suggest working collaboratively to find a solution. CORU is consulting its Optical Registration Board, and we await a response.

Read more about applying for recognition.