Ireland•EuropeGeneral Employment Permit
At a Glance
Processing Time
91 days
Application Fee
1,000 EUR
Stay Duration
1 to 2 years
Renewable
Varies
Job Offer
Not Required
Dependents
Not Specified
PR Pathway
Available
This visa can lead to permanent residency — the right to live and work here indefinitely without renewing your visa.Remote Work
Not Required
Overview
Employment permit for non-EEA nationals in occupations with labor shortages in Ireland. Requires job offer with minimum salary of €34,000 (€36,605 from March 2026).
The General Employment Permit is for non-EEA nationals filling positions with labor shortages in Ireland. Employers must apply and demonstrate the position cannot be filled by EEA nationals. The role must not be on the Ineligible List of Occupations.
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Requirements
Financial
Minimum Income
36,605 EUR
per year
Documentation
Applicant Documents
Valid passport
Copy of photo page
Employment contract
Signed contract with €34,000+ annual salary
Qualifications
Educational credentials relevant to role
Work experience
Evidence of previous employment
OptionalSponsor Documents
Company registration
Business registration documentation
Financial statements
Company accounts and tax returns
Employer letter
Confirming position details and salary
Job description
Detailed duties and responsibilities
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Advantages
- Access to broader occupation range
- Renewable permit
- Path to permanent residency
- Family can join
- Can change employers with new permit
Considerations
- Employer dependent
- €34,000 minimum salary
- 13-week processing time
- Certain occupations ineligible
- Must show labor market need
Application Process
Secure job offer
Get employment contract meeting salary threshold
Prepare application
Employer gathers employee details and contract
Submit to DETE
Employer applies online via EPOS system 12 weeks before start
DETE assessment
Department reviews application
Receive permit
DETE approves and issues employment permit
Application Forms
General Employment Permit Application
Ready to Apply?
Check your eligibility first to see how well you match this visa