With a tight labour market, it is more and more common for employers to have to look beyond Ireland indeed the European labour market for talent to keep their businesses going.
The Irish government facilitates this through its employment permit system, designed to address skill shortages while protecting the domestic labour market.
However, the process can be complex, requiring careful attention to detail. Below is a brief, summary guide to the employment permit process.
Understand the Need for an Employment Permit
An employment permit is required when hiring workers who are non-EEA nationals. Unless the role is specified on the Critical Skills Occupations List, the employer must first confirm that the role cannot be filled by an EEA or Swiss national.
The Irish government maintains two important lists – the Critical Skills Occupations List and the Ineligible Categories of Employment List.
Critical skills roles —such as ICT specialists, healthcare professionals, and engineers—are prioritized and benefit from streamlined application processes.
If the role is on the Ineligible Categories of Employment List, you won’t be able to obtain a permit for that job.
Determine the Right Type of Permit
Ireland offers several types of employment permits tailored to different needs:
- Critical Skills Employment Permit: For highly skilled roles that are critical to the economy. (e.g. nurses, doctors, engineers, specialised accountants, IT workers)
- General Employment Permit: For roles that cannot be filled by the local workforce (e.g. chefs, care workers, mechanics, construction workers etc)
- Intra-Company Transfer Permit: For transferring employees within a multinational organisation.
- Contract for Services Permit: For employment on a contract basis.
Choosing the correct permit type is vital, as each has its own criteria and documentation requirements.
Meet Eligibility Requirements
Before applying, ensure your business and the candidate meet the eligibility criteria:
- Labour Market Needs Test: For general permits, you may need to advertise the position locally for four weeks to prove that no suitable EEA/Swiss candidate is available.
- Minimum Salary Thresholds: Permits often require minimum annual remuneration, typically starting at €34,000 for most roles. For Critical Skills permits, the threshold may be higher, depending on the job.
- Business Status: Your company must be registered and tax-compliant in Ireland.
Prepare Documentation
Employers must provide detailed documentation to support the application, including:
- A full job description and employment contract.
- Proof of the Labour Market Needs Test (if applicable).
- Evidence of the company’s registration with the Revenue Commissioners and compliance with tax obligations.
- Proof that the employee possesses the required qualifications and experience.
The application should be submitted online through the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment’s Employment Permits Online System (EPOS).
Understand the Timeline and Costs
Processing times vary depending on the permit type and demand, typically ranging from 4-8 weeks. Employers should apply well in advance of the desired start date. Fees range from €500 to €1,000, depending on the permit duration (usually one or two years).
Seek Professional Advice if Needed
The employment permit process can be intricate, especially for first-time applicants.
Contact Eoghan McMahon or any of the rest of the immigration team to discuss your options today. info@mcrathmullan.ie
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