Experienced HCAs, interviewed in person
We recruit English-speaking, experienced Healthcare Assistants from South Africa for Irish nursing homes, disability services and home care operators — and we do it the right way, from the first interview to the first shift.
Why South Africa
South Africa offers a large, English-speaking pool of trained and motivated staff. While HCAs do not require NMBI or CORU registration, we set out to recruit staff who hold a qualification in Nursing, Occupational Therapy, Social Work, Psychology, or another related Health and Social Care qualification. Candidates are typically ready to start within four to six months, subject to the work permit.
Interviewed in person
We interview every candidate in person at various locations across South Africa, with our team travelling over every 12–16 weeks to meet and verify them face to face against Irish Care Standards — not via agency intermediaries.
Credentials verified
Qualifications, references, SAPS police clearance, ID and driving licence are checked directly, so you know exactly what a candidate brings on day one.
No fees to candidates
Candidates never pay to be placed — fully compliant with the Employment Agency Act 1971 (Ireland).
The candidate journey
Placing an international HCA is a process, not a transaction. Here's the path every CarePath candidate travels — and where we support you and them along the way.
Sourcing CarePath
We identify candidates through job boards, referrals, word of mouth and training schools in South Africa.
Initial screening CarePath
CV, eligibility and English proficiency are screened before anyone progresses.
Competency interview CarePath
A structured, in-person interview at various locations across South Africa — our team travels over from Ireland every 12–16 weeks — conducted by an experienced Social Care Worker or HCA and a local employer of HCAs.
Credential verification CarePath
Qualifications, references, SAPS police clearance, ID and driving licence are verified directly.
Shortlist delivery CarePath
You receive a shortlist of work-ready, fully assessed candidates.
Final client interviews if required Employer
If you wish, you can meet the shortlisted candidates by video call — the final hiring decision is always yours.
Offer & acceptance Employer
Contract signed between you and your chosen candidate.
Labour market test Employer
The role is advertised domestically, as the permit process requires.
Employment permit application Employer
The General Employment Permit application is submitted to DETE — we can support this as an additional service if required.
Visa & pre-departure Shared
Once the permit is approved, the candidate applies for their visa in South Africa before travelling. Garda vetting is arranged as part of onboarding. CarePath sends an orientation pack covering everything else the candidate will need. CarePath can also provide initial training (if required) in relation to HIQA standards, safeguarding etc. relevant to the sector you are involved in.
Arrival & onboarding Shared
Some employers arrange an airport transfer from Dublin for incoming staff — we can provide this if required.
Have a vacancy to fill?
Get in touch and we'll talk through your requirements, timelines and next steps.
Discuss a vacancy