Entitiled to JA after being out of the country for 2 years?

Hi,

I am currently completing a 2-year post-doctoral training position in the USA under a J1-visa. I am due to return to Ireland in February with job prospects not looking too promising at present.

Before I left Ireland I was undertaking a 3 year PhD earning a university stipend < 12,000 euro/per year and was tax exempt.

Am I entitled to Jobseeker's Allowance if I do not find a job by February? I will most likely be living with my parents who are retired, although I am >25 years old. I will have no other income or assets.

Thanks!

You can apply for JA when you return to Ireland. You will have to complete a HRC1 form (Habitual Residence Form). I would advise you to be sure and have all documentation with you in relation to your Post Doc course and a termination of your lease on where you are currently staying and you J1 visa details. Under current regulations you will be assessed on your means and not your parents as you are >25.

I hope you are successful in gaining employment. Could you apply for another post doc position??

great, thanks for the info!
Yes that is my plan, however cut backs have affected postdoc support in Ireland too, so just figuring out all my options!