Ireland offers a range of work permits and visas for non-European Economic Area (non-EEA) nationals seeking employment in the country. Whether you're a highly skilled professional, an intern, or part of a multinational company, Ireland provides several permit options to suit various employment scenarios. Among the most popular are the Critical Skills Employment Permit and the General Employment Permit, but there are many others designed for specific purposes.
1. Critical Skills Employment Permit (CSEP)
The CSEP is designed to attract highly skilled professionals to Ireland, particularly in sectors experiencing labor shortages.
Who It’s For:
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Professionals in fields like information technology, engineering, and healthcare
Key Features:
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Requires a minimum salary threshold (varies by role)
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A relevant academic qualification is often necessary
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No Labour Market Needs Test required
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Provides a path to long-term residency and family reunification
2. General Employment Permit (GEP)
This is a flexible permit that covers a wide variety of occupations not listed as ineligible.
Who It’s For:
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Workers in diverse fields that don’t qualify under the CSEP but are still in demand
Key Features:
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Requires a job offer and meets a minimum salary threshold
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May require a Labour Market Needs Test, depending on the role and salary
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Suitable for mid-level skilled professionals
3. Intra-Company Transfer Employment Permit
This permit facilitates the transfer of employees within a multinational company from a foreign branch to an Irish branch.
Who It’s For:
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Senior managers, key personnel, or trainees in multinational corporations
Key Features:
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Supports internal mobility within a company
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Valid for employees already employed for a minimum duration with the sending company
4. Contract for Services Employment Permit
This permit applies when a foreign company is contracted to provide services to an Irish entity, and it brings its employees to Ireland for the contract duration.
Who It’s For:
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Workers employed by a foreign company offering services to Irish businesses
Key Features:
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Supports project-based or client-based assignments
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Contract must be between the Irish company and the overseas employer
5. Sport and Cultural Employment Permit
This permit is designed for individuals who will contribute to the Irish sports, arts, or cultural sectors.
Who It’s For:
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Professional athletes, coaches, artists, and cultural performers
Key Features:
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Endorsed by relevant governing or cultural bodies
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Supports events, performances, or sports engagements in Ireland
6. Other Employment Permit Types
Ireland also offers a variety of specialized employment permits for unique situations:
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Internship Employment Permit: For full-time students gaining relevant work experience in Ireland
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Exchange Agreement Employment Permit: For workers coming to Ireland under approved international exchange agreements
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Reactivation Employment Permit: For individuals who previously held an employment permit but fell out of the system
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Seasonal Employment Permit: For short-term, seasonal jobs in sectors like agriculture or tourism
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Hosting Agreement: For non-EEA academic researchers working in approved Irish research organizations
General Requirements for Employment Permits
Regardless of the permit type, certain core requirements apply:
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Job Offer: You must have a formal offer from a legally registered employer in Ireland
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Minimum Salary: Most permits require a minimum salary, which varies by permit type
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Eligibility Criteria: Applicants must meet specific criteria related to experience, qualifications, and the occupation's nature
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Immigration Permission: Most non-EEA workers will need a Stamp 1 immigration permission, tied to a valid employment permit, to legally reside and work in Ireland
Ireland’s employment permit system is designed to meet the evolving needs of its labor market while providing opportunities for skilled and non-skilled workers alike. Whether you're planning a long-term career or a short-term assignment in Ireland, understanding the right permit for your situation is the first step toward a successful relocation. For complex or unclear cases, it's advisable to seek guidance from an immigration expert.