Last Updated on January 9, 2025
Insights from Aaron Flynn: Director of Ireland Immigration at Envoy Global
Welcome to the Q4 2024 Ireland Immigration Briefing with Aaron Flynn, Director of Immigration, Ireland at Envoy Global. In this update, Flynn highlights the key developments in Ireland’s immigration landscape during Q4 and previews changes on the horizon for 2025.
Key Immigration Updates from Q4 2024
Ireland’s immigration system has undergone significant changes in 2024, many tied to an overarching digital immigration strategy. These updates reflect a push for modernization and flexibility while addressing the practical needs of employers and foreign nationals. Here are the main developments employers should note.
Ireland Travel Overview for the Winter Holidays
With delays in processing immigration registrations and residence permits, non-European Economic Area (EEA) nationals legally residing in Ireland can rely on a Travel Confirmation Notice. This document allows individuals to travel on expired Irish Residence Permit (IRP) cards, provided renewal applications were submitted before expiration.
Ireland’s Immigration Service Delivery (ISD) advised all airlines and foreign missions of this measure. In addition, employers and employees should consider the following:
- Travel Advisory: Individuals should confirm that third-country travelers transiting through Ireland will no pose difficulties.
- Employer Impact: Employers are encouraged to assist affected employees by ensuring proper documentation is in place for travel.
Salary Threshold Changes for Employment Permits
The proposed increases to employment permit salary thresholds, initially set for January 2025, have been deferred pending further feedback, due 10 January 2025. While increases are still expected, they may be adjusted to accommodate rising business costs in Ireland.
- Employer Considerations: Businesses must incorporate anticipated changes into annual appraisals and budget planning.
- Key Details: The minimum annual remuneration (MRA) threshold adjustments aim to align with the realities of the labor market in Ireland.
Immigration Registration Updates
As of 4 November 2024, the ISD assumed responsibility for renewing permissions for Irish immigration residences nationwide. Renewals must now be submitted via the ISD’s online portal. In-person appointments are no longer required unless specifically requested by ISD.
- Digital Content Centre (DCC): Introduced on 24 October 2024, the DCC is a self-service portal that enables users to book and amend first-time registration appointments and track application statuses. The platform will eventually support inquiries related to visas, citizenship, EU treaty rights and other immigration matters.
Grace Periods for IRP Card Renewals
Recognizing delays in transitioning to the new digital systems, specific grace periods have been introduced, for example:
- Eight-Week Grace Period: Employees with expired IRP cards can remain employed under existing conditions for up to eight weeks by providing their employer with an email acknowledgment (OREG Number).
- Important Note: Employees unable to renew within their grace period must be removed from the payroll and avoid international travel.
Employment Permits Act 2024: Major Overhaul
Q4 2024 marked the most significant update to Ireland’s employment permit system in over a decade. Key changes include:
- Labour Market Needs Test (LMNT): Print media advertising requirements have been removed, allowing vacancies to be posted on accessible online platforms.
- Change of Employer: Permit holders can now change employers after nine months, provided the new role aligns with their permit classification (SOC Codes).
- Progression within Roles: Internal promotions and transfers within the same company have been streamlined.
- Seasonal Employment Permit (SEP): A new short-term permit for sectors like agriculture and horticulture, allowing employment for up to seven months annually.
- Dependent Employment Permit: Revised provisions cater to dependents of Critical Skills Employment permit holders and researchers.
- Non-Consultant Hospital Doctors (NCHDs): A two-year General Employment Permit is now available for NCHDs working on six-month contracts.
Implications for Irish Employers and Employees
These reforms introduce greater flexibility while safeguarding employee rights. However, they also create new obligations:
- Compliance Priorities: Employers must review internal policies to ensure compliance with updated regulations, including the 50:50 rule adjustments and indexed remuneration thresholds.
- Streamlined Processes: Enhanced administration systems, such as the return of incomplete applications and clarified agency/subcontractor arrangements, aim to reduce processing times and errors.
Modernizing Ireland’s Immigration and Employment Permits
Ireland’s immigration and employment permit systems are evolving to meet modern labor market demands. These updates—from streamlined digital processes to increased flexibility for employees and employers—reflect a commitment to modernization.
The Ireland Team at Envoy Global is dedicated to guiding businesses through these changes, ensuring compliance and helping them adapt their immigration strategies.
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Want to chat further with Aaron Flynn? Contact us to see how we can help your organization’s corporate immigration program.
Content in this publication is for informational purposes only and not intended as legal advice, nor should it be relied on as such. Envoy is not a law firm, and does not provide legal advice. If you would like guidance on how this information may impact your particular situation and you are a client of the U.S. Law Firm, consult your attorney. If you are not a client of the U.S. Law Firm working with Envoy, consult another qualified professional. This website does not create an attorney-client relationship with the U.S. Law Firm.
