Bringing clarity to the myths and misunderstandings around Irish work permits, this comprehensive guide helps non‑EEA nationals (and employers) make informed decisions. Brought to you by Ireland Work Permits and for any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us via 053 910 0014 or our Contact Us page.
1. “I don’t need a work permit if I have a job offer.”
Reality: A valid job offer is a prerequisite—but not sufficient on its own. Non‑EEA nationals must obtain an employment permit from the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment (DETE). Even after securing the permit, those from visa‑required countries must subsequently apply for a long‑stay D visa to enter the State.
Many assume the visa piece isn’t necessary—but it absolutely is for nationalities subject to Irish visa rules
2. “Student visa holders can work as much as they like until they switch to a work permit.”
Reality: Students (Stamp 2 or 2A) may work only 20 hours per week during term time, and up to 40 hours per week during holidays. After graduation, in some cases you can switch to a graduate visa (Stamp 1G), but this does not grant unlimited work rights—you must still follow permit procedures or qualify for Critical Skills or Stamp 4 status.
3. “General Employment Permits are hard to get — better to wait.”
Reality: Yes, they require a labour market needs test (LMNT); the employer must advertise the job to Irish/EEA candidates before hiring offshore. But once completed properly, many employers do obtain the permit successfully.
Some believe only large multinationals can manage this; small businesses often can too—it’s mostly about following the process diligently.
4. “If my job is on the Critical Skills list, I automatically qualify.”
Reality: Being listed is only half the battle. For a Critical Skills Employment Permit, you must meet the salary threshold (currently €38,000 with a relevant degree, or €64,000 with experience and no degree) and hold either a recognised degree or equivalent experience. You also need a two‑year contract minimum.
Without hitting the income or qualification threshold, you’ll need to apply under the more restrictive General Permit and pass the LMNT.
5. “I can enter Ireland on a tourist visa while my application is pending.”
Reality: This is a serious misconception. Non‑EEA applicants cannot enter the State (even as a tourist) while their employment permit application is pending. You must wait outside Ireland until the permit is granted—entering prematurely can lead to entry denial or delays.
6. “Once I have a work permit, I’m free to change jobs immediately.”
Reality: Not so. Your permit is employer‑specific and occupation‑specific. Changing jobs or roles requires a new permit application, unless you hold a Critical Skills permit and satisfy certain conditions (such as salary and time constraints).
As of September 2024, some flexibility allows Critical Skills holders to switch employer after nine months, but documentation must still be submitted and approved.
7. “British nationals need work permits because of Brexit.”
Reality: Thanks to the Common Travel Area (CTA), British citizens do not need a work permit to work or live in Ireland. They enjoy full rights including residency, employment, and social benefits—just like Irish citizens.
This remains valid post‑Brexit and continues to be safeguarded by Irish legislation and international agreements.
8. “Dependent spouses of Critical Skills permit holders must apply for a separate work permit.”
Reality: Since March 2019, eligible spouses or de facto partners of Critical Skills permit holders or certain researchers can receive Stamp 1 immigration permission, giving direct access to the labour market without needing their own employment permit.
This streamlined path doesn’t apply to General Permit holders or other permit categories.
9. “There’s a fixed maximum duration for all work permits.”
Reality: Permit durations vary. Most General and Critical Skills Permits are granted for two years initially, then renewable—General permits can total up to five years (and beyond, if eligible for Stamp 4). Critical Skills holders may apply for long‑term residency directly after two years.
Other permit types—such as Internship, Contract for Services, Intra‑company Transfer, Sport & Cultural, Reactivation Employment—have differing durations and conditions.
10. “It’s okay to work without a permit if it’s just a short-term job.”
Reality: Working without a valid permit (or relevant Stamp 4/1G etc.) is a criminal offence. Employers can face severe penalties—including fines or imprisonment—for employing someone who lacks proper authorisation, and employees put their status at risk.
There are no legal “short‑term exemptions” outside of specific schemes like Working Holiday Authorisation—but even those come with strict limits and cannot be extended once in Ireland.
Beyond The Top Ten: A Few More Misconceptions
11. “The LMNT means it always fails if there’s any local candidate.”
Reality: The Labour Market Needs Test requires employers to advertise the job in designated media for specified periods. If no suitably qualified Irish or EEA candidate applies, the employer may proceed. It doesn’t require zero applicants—just none meeting the criteria.
12. “You must apply from outside Ireland only.”
Reality: First‑time permit applications are generally made from outside Ireland—but non‑EEA nationals already in Ireland with valid Stamp 1, 1A, 2, 2A or 3 can apply from within the State, provided they follow the correct procedure and then update their immigration registration if successful..
13. “Once I have residency permission, permits still apply.”
Reality: After 57 months (just under 5 years) of continuous renewals under valid permits, you may qualify for a Stamp 4 Irish Residence Permit. Holders of Stamp 4 are no longer required to hold or renew an employment permit, as they enjoy unrestricted work rights.
Practical Tips For Applicants & Employers
If you’re a non‑EEA job seeker:
- Secure a written job offer stating salary and role.
- Confirm whether the role is on the Critical Skills Occupations List.
- If not, prepare for your employer to conduct and submit a proper Labour Market Needs Test.
- Apply for the permit from outside Ireland, unless already in-country with a qualifying Stamp.
- Do not enter Ireland until the permit is issued—and apply for the D‑visa if required.
- After arrival, register with GNIB within 90 days to receive your correct immigration stamp.
If you’re an employer sponsoring non‑EEA nationals:
- Check that your company is registered and compliant for permit processing.
- Ensure the position is not on the ineligible list and meets salary criteria.
- Advertise the role and document the LMNT meticulously.
- Submit the application and cover the associated application fees (e.g. €1000 for Critical Skills; lower for General depending on duration).
- Inform the new hire of obligations—like GNIB registration and the Stamp 1 or Stamp 4 timeline.
Final Advice
If you’re navigating the world of Irish work permits—and want to avoid pitfalls or hidden delays—it pays to get expert help. Ireland Work Permits is dedicated to guiding both applicants and employers through the full process:
- Choosing the right permit type (Critical Skills, General, Internship, etc.)
- Meeting salary and qualifications thresholds
- Preparing and submitting LMNT documentation
- Managing visa applications when required
- Advising on Switching jobs, transitioning to Stamp 4, and long‑term residency
If you’d like personalised advice or help with your application, contact us today on 053 910 0014 or visit our Contact Us page.
Remember:
- A job offer is necessary—but so is the correct permit and visa.
- Different permit types come with unique eligibility and restrictions.
- Changing jobs or employers isn’t automatic.
- Working without proper authorisation is illegal—for both employee and employer.
Need help? We’re here—give us a call at 053 910 0014. Let us help you turn your work‑in‑Ireland dream into reality.
