The rules around childminder registration in Ireland changed in September 2024. Here's what you need to know as a parent, in plain English.
The new registration rules
Under the Child Care Act (amendment) 2024, all paid childminders in Ireland must register with Tusla. The rollout runs from September 2024 through to September 2027.
Who must register
Any childminder who cares for children for reward. Previously, only childminders with 4 or more pre-school children, or 7 or more children in total, needed to register. The threshold is being removed during the transition.
Transition period
Between now and September 2027, childminders can register voluntarily. From September 2027, registration is expected to be mandatory for all.
How childminders register
- Complete Tusla's pre-registration training (usually a 30-hour course).
- Hold a current paediatric first-aid certificate.
- Have Garda vetting and appropriate insurance.
- Apply through Tusla's Childminder registration portal.
What registration means for parents
- You can use NCS only with a registered childminder — that's a big saving.
- Registered childminders are inspected by Tusla like creches are.
- Insurance and first-aid cover are verified.
Finding a registered childminder
Ask directly — a childminder can show you their Tusla registration certificate. Or search Crechely, where more childminders are joining the register every month.
Read our full how to find a childminder guide for the questions to ask.