Work in Ireland — Employment Permits
Ireland currently provides nine employment permit types. Critical Skills and General Employment Permits cover many international hires, while separate permits exist for intracompany transfers, eligible dependants, contracts for services, internships, sport and culture, exchange agreements, and reactivation cases.
General information only. DETE rules and occupation lists change. The final decision rests with DETE.
Employment permit system overview
Ireland uses a permit-based system rather than a points-based immigration route. The employer and employee both play roles in the application. Permits are applied for through DETE's Employment Permits Online System (EPOS).
Critical Skills vs. General
The Critical Skills Employment Permit targets high-skill roles on eligible lists and supports faster progression to Stamp 4. The General Employment Permit is broader but generally requires a Labour Market Needs Test and has different minimum salary requirements.
Stamp 4 progression
Qualifying Critical Skills permit holders can apply for Stamp 4 after two years, allowing them to work without a permit. General Employment Permit holders typically need five years. Stamp 4 is a significant step toward longer-term residence.
What you can expect from a serious review
- A route comparison based on the information provided
- A document and evidence checklist
- Clear decision points
- An explanation of what still needs official verification
- A defined next action
Frequently Asked Questions
Need help deciding what to do next?
Share your goal and a short summary of your situation. We will use it to prepare for an initial discussion. This is not an official immigration assessment.
No result is guaranteed. The value of the review is a clearer route, a better-prepared file and a more informed decision.