Learn how to apply for an Ireland Critical Skills Employment Permit. Discover eligibility criteria, required documents, application steps, and frequently asked questions.
A step-by-step guide to securing an Ireland Critical Skills Employment Permit. Understand eligibility, required documents, and the application process for skilled professionals.
Introduction to the Ireland Critical Skills Employment Permit.
Complete guide to obtaining a Critical Skills Employment Permit in Ireland, including requirements, the application procedure, and FAQs
The Ireland Critical Skills Employment Permit is designed to attract highly skilled professionals from outside the EU, EEA, and Switzerland to work in Ireland.
Issued by the Irish Department of Business, Enterprise, and Innovation (DBEI), this permit aims to fill skill gaps in the Irish labor market, particularly in areas of significant economic contribution.
Eligible professionals can bypass the Labour Market Needs Test, which is typically required to prove no suitable EU/EEA candidates are available for the position.
Related: Ireland Critical Skills Employment Permit: A Complete Guide.
Key Eligibility Criteria for the Critical Skills Employment Permit
To be eligible for this permit, your occupation must appear on Ireland’s “Highly Skilled Eligible Occupations List” issued by the DBEI. Some of the key fields include:
- Natural and Social Science (chemists, biologists, biochemists, physicists, and medical laboratory scientists)
- Engineering
- Information and communications technology (ICT)
- Health (Medical practitioners, pharmacists, etc.)
- Health and Social Services (Managers and Directors)
- Nursing and Midwifery
- Orthoptics
- Health Associate (prosthetists, orthotics)
- Teaching and Education (Academics with the equivalent of an NFQ level 10 (Doctoral degree))
- Business, Research and Administration
- Architecture (Town Planners and Surveyors)
- Quality and Regulatory
- Media (Art Director in 2D or 3D animation)
- Artistic, Literary and Media
- Design
- Sports and Fitness
- Sales, Marketing and Related Associate
These sectors are vital to Ireland’s economy, and attracting skilled workers in these fields promotes economic growth.
(Information obtained from: https://dbei.gov.ie/en)
Salary Requirements for the Critical Skills Employment Permit
Salary is a crucial factor for eligibility. There are two main thresholds:
- €32,000 per year for occupations listed on the Highly Skilled Eligible Occupations List.
- €64,000 per year for other occupations, provided they are not on the ineligible occupations list.
Additionally, you must secure a job offer for at least two years, and your qualifications and experience must align with the job requirements.
Application Process for the Ireland Critical Skills Employment Permit
Applications for the Critical Skills Employment Permit must be submitted through the Employment Permits Online System (EPOS). You or your employer can complete the process, which includes the following steps:
- Fill out the online application form.
- Attach the required documentation (see the next section).
- Pay the applicable fees.
- Ensure the application is submitted within 28 days once started.
The processing time varies but typically takes between 6 to 8 weeks.
Required Documents for the Critical Skills Employment Permit Application
Several documents are needed to support your application, including:
- Copy of your passport showing personal details and signature.
- Passport-sized photograph meeting Ireland’s photo standards.
- A work contract is signed by both you and your employer.
- If applicable, a copy of your current immigration stamp stating that you reside in Ireland during the application.
- Employer details, including registration numbers and company address.
- Salary details, specifying annual earnings, deductions, and hourly rates.
Submitting accurate and complete documentation is critical for a successful application.
Critical Skills Employment Visa Requirements
Non-EU/EEA nationals applying for the Critical Skills Employment Permit may also need a long-stay ‘D’ work visa to enter Ireland. This visa allows you to stay in Ireland for more than 90 days to work. You can apply for this visa online, but only after securing the employment permit from DBEI.
At the Irish border, immigration officers will assess your entry, regardless of visa status, and may ask additional questions. Be prepared with all your documentation.
Visa Application Process for Non-EU/EEA Nationals
If you’re from a visa-required country, follow these steps:
- Apply for the visa online once you’ve received your employment permit.
- Submit the required documents for visa approval, including your employment permit.
- Upon arriving in Ireland, request entry permission from immigration officers at the border.
- Once in Ireland, register with the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) for a residence permit.
Related: Ireland Work Visa and Permit Application Process: A Detailed Guide.
Residence Permit and Long-Term Stay in Ireland
Even after receiving an employment permit and work visa, you must register for an Ireland residence permit through the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB). After five years of living in Ireland, you may apply for permanent residency, securing long-term status in the country.
Duration and Renewal of the Critical Skills Employment Permit
The Critical Skills Employment Permit is issued for two years. However, unlike other employment permits, you don’t need to renew it once it expires. Instead, you apply for a letter of support from DBEI to renew your residence registration with GNIB. After that, you’ll be granted a Stamp 4 on your passport, allowing you to live and work without needing an employment permit.
Family Reunification for Critical Skills Permit Holders
One of the significant benefits of holding a Critical Skills Employment Permit is the ability to bring your family to Ireland. You can apply for family reunification for your spouse, partner, and dependent children. Additionally, they can apply for a Dependant/Partner/Spouse Employment Permit, allowing them to work in Ireland. This permit is issued free of charge, further easing the transition for your family.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the processing time for the Critical Skills Employment Permit?
Processing typically takes 6-8 weeks, depending on the volume of applications.
Do I need to stay with my employer for a specific period?
Yes, you are required to stay with your employer for at least 12 months before you can change jobs.
Is there an age limit for applying?
There is no specific age limit, but you must meet the qualifications and experience requirements.
Can I apply for permanent residency?
Yes, after five years of residence, you can apply for Irish permanent residency.
What is the minimum salary requirement?
The minimum salary is €32,000 for listed occupations and €64,000 for non-listed but eligible jobs.
How do I bring my family with me?
You can apply for family reunification, allowing your spouse/partner and children to live with you in Ireland.
Conclusion
Securing an Ireland Critical Skills Employment Permit offers highly skilled professionals an opportunity to live and work in one of Europe’s thriving economies. By fulfilling the necessary eligibility criteria and following the outlined application process, you can access the Irish job market and potentially pave the way for permanent residency while also reuniting with your family.