Overview
Ireland's work visa system is designed to fill labour shortages while protecting the local job market. But how open Ireland is for you depends on your passport. For example, a UK passport holder scores 5/100 (Very Open — a low score means easier access), while a Pakistani or Kenyan passport holder scores 85/100 (Very Restrictive — a high score means more barriers).
Check Ireland's openness for your passport →
If your passport scores low (Very Open or Open), you may qualify for open work permits or youth mobility. If it scores high (Restrictive or Very Restrictive), you'll likely need an employer-sponsored permit with a job offer.
Who qualifies
To work in Ireland, you generally need:
- A valid job offer from an Irish employer
- The role must meet minimum salary thresholds (varies by permit)
- You must have the required qualifications or experience
- For some permits, the employer must prove no local worker was available
Your nationality affects which permits you can apply for and whether you need a visa to enter Ireland. See Ireland visa requirements for your nationality.
Visa types
| Permit type | Who it suits | Key requirements | Labour market test? |
|---|
| Critical Skills Employment Permit | Highly skilled professionals in shortage occupations | Job on Critical Skills List; salary €40,904+ (with degree) or €68,911+ (experience-based) | No |
| General Employment Permit | Workers in non-specialized roles | Job not on ineligible list; salary €36,605+ | Yes – 28-day advertising period |
| Intra-Company Transfer Permit | Employees of multinational companies transferring to Irish branch | Must have worked for company for 6+ months; salary €40,904+ | No |
| Research & Development Permit | Researchers working on R&D projects | Contract with a state-approved research body | No |
How to apply
- Secure a job offer – Your employer must be willing to sponsor your permit.
- Employer completes labour market test (if required) – For General Employment Permits, the employer advertises the role for 28 days via DSP and one national newspaper.
- Employer submits permit application – Applications are made online via the Employment Permits Online System (EPOS). You cannot apply yourself.
- Receive permit and apply for visa (if needed) – Once the permit is approved, you may need to apply for an entry visa at your local Irish embassy or consulate.
- Travel and register – On arrival, register with immigration (GNIB) within 90 days.
Processing times vary: Critical Skills permits typically take 6–8 weeks, General permits 8–12 weeks. Check current times on the DETE website.
Costs & timelines
| Item | Cost (approx) | Notes |
|---|
| Critical Skills Employment Permit | €1,000 | Paid by employer; non-refundable |
| General Employment Permit | €1,000 | Paid by employer; non-refundable |
| Entry visa (if required) | €80–100 | Single or multiple entry; check embassy |
| GNIB registration | €300 | Paid on arrival; residence permit card |
All fees are approximate and subject to change. Verify at the official DETE site.
Documents you'll need
- Valid passport (6+ months validity)
- Job offer letter and employment contract
- Proof of qualifications (degree certificates, professional licenses)
- Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Employer's labour market test evidence (if required)
- Proof of company registration (employer provides)
- Passport-sized photographs
- Visa application form (if applicable)
Common mistakes
- Applying without a job offer – Most permits require a specific job offer. Don't apply speculatively.
- Wrong permit type – Ensure your role and salary match the permit criteria. If you qualify for Critical Skills, it's faster and has no labour market test.
- Incomplete labour market test – Employers must follow strict advertising rules. Any error can delay or reject the application.
- Ignoring visa requirements – Even with a permit, some nationalities need a visa to enter Ireland. Check before booking travel.
- Underestimating processing times – Apply well in advance; delays can happen.
FAQ
Can I switch employers on a work permit?
Yes, but you must apply for a new permit. The new employer must sponsor you.
Can I bring my family?
Holders of Critical Skills permits can bring immediate family (spouse/partner and children). General permit holders may bring family after 12 months.
Is there a path to permanent residency?
Yes. After 5 years on a work permit, you can apply for long-term residency. Critical Skills holders may apply after 2 years.
Do I need a visa if I have a work permit?
If you are from a visa-required country, yes. The permit alone does not allow entry.
Next steps
Your passport's openness score determines how straightforward your Ireland work visa journey will be. For example, a UK passport holder scores 5/100 (Very Open), meaning easy access. A Pakistani passport holder scores 85/100 (Very Restrictive), meaning employer sponsorship is essential.
Check Ireland's openness for your passport →
Once you know your score, focus on the right permit: low scores can explore open options; high scores should secure a job offer and prepare for a robust application. See Ireland visa requirements for your nationality for detailed entry rules.