[Updated] Ireland: Modernization of the Employment Permit System

Last Updated on February 23, 2023

This article was originally published on 1 August 2022 and was updated on 13 October 2202 to reflect new information.   

13 October 2022 Update: On 12 October 2022, the government of Ireland introduced the Employment Permits Bill, which aims to modernize the Employment Permit system in the country. The main provisions of the bill include:  

  • The introduction of a seasonal employment permit that will cater to short-term and recurrent employment situations in certain sectors.   
  • Revisions to the labor market tests.   
  • Streamlining the number of requirements to simplify the process.   
  • Providing additional training and accommodation support for foreign national workers in certain circumstances.   

According to the government, these measures will reduce processing delays and simplify other immigration procedures. For additional information on the Bill, check here.   


Key Points  

  • The government of Ireland will introduce new measures to the Employment Permit system in the fall of 2022  

Overview 

The government of Ireland plans to modernize the Employment Permit system. The changes aim to: 

  • Create a more responsive system to address Ireland’s labor market; 
  • Introduce new seasonal work employment permits;  
  • Introduce an index for salary thresholds; and 
  • Revise the labor market test process.  

The official bill will be published and implemented in the fall of 2022.  

What are the Changes? 

The government of Ireland will publish a new law for its Employment Permit system in the fall of 2022. According to the government, these changes will help streamline the Employment Permit system and allow Ireland to better compete for global talent while filling labor market gaps.  

Looking Ahead  

The new bill for the Employment Permit system will be implemented in the fall of 2022. Continue to check the government of Ireland’s website and Envoy’s website for the latest updates and information.  


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Content in this publication is for informational purposes only and not intended as legal advice, nor should it be relied on as such. For additional information on the issues discussed, consult an attorney at one of the two U.S. Law Firms working with the Envoy Platform or another qualified professional. On non-U.S. immigration issues, consult an Envoy global immigration service provider or another qualified representative.