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Work & employment permits

Irish Critical Skills Employment Permit

A fast-track permit for highly skilled non-EEA workers in occupations judged critically important to the Irish economy, offering a quicker path to living and working in Ireland.

Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
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Under review — check current rules

Minimum salary/remuneration thresholds for the CSEP are subject to a phased Government roadmap review (announced December 2025) and are increasing over time; verify the current figure on enterprise.gov.ie before publishing any specific amount.

Important information

Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Ireland government website before you apply.
On this page
Official name
Critical Skills Employment Permit (CSEP)
Route type
Employment permit (Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment)
Labour Market Needs Test
Not required
Occupations
Roles on the Critical Skills Occupations List (highly skilled, in short supply)
Path to Stamp 4
Holders can generally apply for Stamp 4 (no permit needed) after two years
Confirm current eligibility rules on the official page

Who it is for

  • Non-EEA nationals with a job offer in an occupation on the Critical Skills Occupations List
  • Highly skilled workers whose skills are in significant shortage in the Irish labour market
  • People intending to settle long term in Ireland

Requirements

  • A job offer for an eligible occupation on the Critical Skills Occupations List
  • A minimum period contract of employment (typically two years) with an Irish employer
  • Relevant qualifications or experience for the role
  • A minimum annual remuneration threshold set for critical skills roles (basic salary only)

What you can do

  • Work in Ireland for the employer and role named on the permit
  • Apply to be joined by eligible family members, who may be granted permission to work
  • Progress towards Stamp 4 permission and, in time, long-term residence and citizenship

How to apply

  • Apply online through the Employment Permits Online (EPOS) system on enterprise.gov.ie
  • Applications can be made by the employee or the employer
  • After arrival, register your immigration permission with Immigration Service Delivery

Official sources

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.

Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.

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