For employer-backed roles outside Critical Skills.
Route overview
Local employer offer
Typical timeline / duration: Up to two years initially; renewable for up to a further three years; after five years, long-term residence or Stamp 4 may be available
Important notes
Obtain a job offer from a bona fide employer trading in Ireland and registered with the relevant tax and company authorities.
The role must generally pass the Labour Market Needs Test and must not be on the ineligible occupations list.
Meet the minimum annual remuneration of EUR 36,605 that applies from 1 March 2026 (EUR 32,691 for meat processing, horticultural, healthcare assistant and home carer roles), plus the role, qualification, and experience requirements, and submit a contract signed by both parties.
Apply through Employment Permits Online, normally at least 12 weeks before the proposed start date; after approval, complete immigration registration if required.
A General Employment Permit can generally be issued for up to two years initially and then extended for up to a further three years.
A first-time permit holder is generally expected to remain with the initial employer for nine months, subject to limited exceptions such as redundancy or a fundamental change in circumstances.
After five years of lawful employment on permits, the holder may be able to seek long-term residence or Stamp 4; this is not automatic.
Spouses, partners, and dependants generally cannot work on a dependant employment permit linked to this route and may need their own permission.
Preparation checklist
Passport and application
Employment contract signed by both parties
Employer registration, trading, and tax information
Labour Market Needs Test advertising evidence where required
Role, remuneration, qualification, and experience evidence
Photographs, insurance, police, and immigration-registration documents where required