To leave any job, you need to submit a resignation letter. In Ireland, these are more than just a formality and may be required by employment law. Here's what you need to know.
Key Takeaways
- A resignation letter is a formal written record confirming that you are leaving your job voluntarily
- In Ireland, your resignation letter helps establish your official notice date and final working day
- Always check your employment contract before resigning to confirm your notice period
- A professional resignation letter should be clear, neutral, and concise
- You are not required to explain your reasons for leaving in detail
- Including a brief expression of appreciation helps maintain goodwill and future references
- How you behave after submitting your resignation is just as important as the letter itself
What Is a Resignation Letter and Why Does It Matter?
In the same way that a cover letter expresses your interest in a job, a resignation letter is a formal written document that confirms your decision to leave a job. The letter is an essential professional and practical part of your resignation. It offers clarity and confirms that you're ending your employment voluntarily. It's also helpful in creating a written record for both you and your employer, especially in larger organisations, where HR can process notice periods, final pay, and references.
in Q2 2025
Resignation Letters in Ireland: Notice Periods and Legal Basics
In Ireland, resignation letters aren't just a matter of common courtesy to an employer; they're part of employment law. There isn't a single legally mandated format for a resignation letter, just as there isn't a single format for cover letters. Still, the notice period and clarity of your resignation are required by law. By writing a resignation letter, you can ensure your departure remains above board and professional.
separations from primary employment in Ireland
Check your employment contract carefully before resigning. Most employment contracts specify a notice period, which is worth asking about in your interview. This can vary depending on your role, seniority, length of service, etc. When you submit your resignation letter, you'll likely be expected to work your notice unless there's an alternative arrangement agreed with your employer.
In Ireland, a resignation letter is not just a courtesy. It is written confirmation that you are ending your employment voluntarily. This matters because it establishes your official notice date, confirms compliance with your contract, and protects both you and your employer if disputes arise later.
What to Include in a Professional Resignation Letter
Your resignation letter can be personalised, but there are a few core elements that you should include. Before anything else, make sure your resignation letter includes these.
- Include a clear statement that you're resigning. Don't use vague wording. A direct statement makes it clear that you intend to resign.
- Specify your final working day. Check that this aligns with your contractual or statutory notice period. Write this clearly.
- Just like you would after an interview, include a brief expression of appreciation. You don't need to make this emotional or detailed (or even accurate), but it helps maintain goodwill. You might need references from this employer down the line.
You are not legally required to explain why you are resigning in Ireland. In most cases, keeping your reason brief or omitting it entirely is the safest approach.
If you choose to include a reason:
- Keep it neutral and factual
- Avoid emotional language or criticism
- Focus on your next step rather than problems in the role
Detailed explanations are better saved for an exit interview, where context can be given verbally. A resignation letter should remain professional, concise, and suitable for long-term records.
How to Write a Letter of Resignation Step by Step
Approach writing a letter of resignation methodically, just like you would write your CV. That way, you can check that your letter includes everything it has to. Once you've done that, reread it to check for errors, then submit it.
For remote or hybrid roles, the resignation letter itself rarely changes, but the process around it often does.
Best practice includes:
- Sending the resignation letter by email after informing your manager via call or video
- Clearly confirming your final working day and equipment return arrangements
- Offering a written handover or recorded walkthrough for systems and processes
Because remote teams rely heavily on documentation, clarity and written follow-up are even more important when resigning from a remote role.
Resignation Letter Template for Ireland
We wouldn't suggest copying these templates verbatim, but you can use them to structure your resignation, especially if this is your first job and you've never done one before. Adapt them to your situation and try to include the same details and sentiments. These templates follow professional standards for workplaces in Ireland and should be fine provided you ensure your wording isn't ambiguous.
Standard Resignation Letter Template
[Your name]
[Your address]
[Date]
Dear [Manager’s name],
I am writing to formally resign from my position as [your job title] at [company name]. In line with my notice period, my final working day will be [date].
I would like to thank you for the opportunity to work at [company name]and for the experience I have gained during my time here. I appreciate the support and guidance provided throughout my role.
I am happy to assist with the transition process. I will do my best to ensure a smooth handover of my responsibilities before my departure.
Thank you again for the opportunity, and I wish you and the team continued success.
Yours sincerely,
[Your name]
Short Notice Resignation Letter Template
If you need to resign with shorter notice than usual, keep the tone respectful and factual.
Dear [Manager’s name],
Please accept this letter as formal notice of my resignation from my role as [job title]at [company name]. Due to personal circumstances, I am unable to complete my full notice period. My final working day will be [date].
I appreciate the opportunities I have had while working here and thank you for your understanding. I will do what I can to support a smooth transition before my departure.
Kind regards,
[Your name]
Resignation Letter by Email (Ireland)
While you can do an interview over the phone, you can't resign over the phone. However, Email resignations are common, especially in remote or hybrid roles. The content should remain formal.
Subject: Resignation – [Your Name]
Dear [Manager’s name],
I am writing to formally resign from my position as [job title]at [company name]. In accordance with my notice period, my final working day will be [date].
Thank you for the opportunity to work with the team and for the experience gained during my time at the company. I am happy to assist with the handover process where needed.
Please let me know if you require anything further from me during my notice period.
Kind regards,
[Your name]
Tips for Using These Templates
Professional Etiquette and Mistakes to Avoid When Resigning
It's a good idea to behave professionally when resigning. It's a good idea to inform your manager verbally before submitting your resignation, as it shows respect. From there, you can submit your resignation letter to them or HR.
Make sure your resignation letter has a calm, neutral, and respectful tone, even if you don't feel it should. It should be as formal and professional as your CV. This isn't an emotional piece of writing; it's an official document that will initiate your resignation. Spare the details and get to the point.
What Happens After You Submit Your Resignation Letter
Once you submit your resignation letter, you're in the transition or handover period. In most cases, HR will acknowledge your resignation, outlining your final working day, notice period, and remaining obligations. Be sure to clarify all these details.
Unless otherwise stated, your responsibilities and remit will likely remain the same. You should continue to work to a professional standard and complete your duties. It's also worthwhile to support any handover arrangements in place. Aim for a professional exit.
A Professional Exit
- Submits a clear, written resignation letter with the correct notice period
- Confirms the final working day in writing
- Prepares a structured handover document
- Offers support during the transition
- Maintains a positive tone with managers and colleagues
- Leaves the door open for references or future opportunities
A Poorly Handled Exit
- Gives vague or informal notice
- Misses contractual notice requirements
- Leaves work undocumented
- Withdraws effort during the notice period
- Expresses frustration or criticism in writing
- Damages trust with management
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