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Work & employment permits

Irish General Employment Permit

The main permit for non-EEA workers filling a broad range of occupations facing a labour or skills shortage in Ireland, covering roles outside the critical-skills list.

Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
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Under review — check current rules

Minimum salary threshold and the 12-week / 28-day advertising timeframes are set by regulation and are changing under the December 2025 Government roadmap on permit thresholds; verify the current figures on enterprise.gov.ie before stating 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
General Employment Permit (GEP)
Route type
Employment permit (Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment)
Eligible occupations
All occupations eligible unless on the Ineligible List of Occupations
Labour Market Needs Test
Usually required (EURES advertisement before application)
Application timing
Apply at least 12 weeks before the proposed employment start date

Who it is for

  • Non-EEA nationals with a job offer in an occupation not on the Ineligible List
  • Workers filling roles where there is a genuine labour or skills shortage
  • Employers unable to fill a vacancy from within the EEA labour market

Requirements

  • A job offer from an Irish employer for an eligible occupation
  • A Labour Market Needs Test in most cases (vacancy advertised, including on EURES, for the required period)
  • A minimum annual salary threshold set for General Employment Permits
  • The employer must generally employ at least 50% EEA nationals (the 50:50 rule), subject to exceptions

What you can do

  • Work in Ireland for the employer and occupation stated on the permit
  • Renew the permit and, after a qualifying period of legal residence, apply for longer-term permission
  • Apply, where eligible, for family reunification

How to apply

  • Advertise the vacancy to satisfy the Labour Market Needs Test where required
  • Apply online via Employment Permits Online (EPOS) on enterprise.gov.ie
  • Register your immigration permission with Immigration Service Delivery after arrival

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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