General Employment Permit
Department of Enterprise: new permit EUR 500 for 6 months or less, EUR 1,000 for 6 to 24 months; renewal EUR 750 (6 months or less) or EUR 1,500 (up to 36 months). 90% is refunded if the application is unsuccessful.≈ $540
The Department publishes the date it has reached. As of 8 October 2026 it was processing new General Employment Permit applications received on 2 September 2026. Apply at least 12 weeks before the start date.
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Source-backed requirements
Eligibility
(1)Job qualifications, skills or experience
MandatoryPossess the relevant qualifications, skills or experience required for the actual employment; there is no universal degree requirement. Assess the job's real requirements and any applicable professional registration separately.
Verified official
Qualification
(2)50% rule
InformationalAt least 50% of the employees in the workplace must be EEA nationals (the 50% rule), unless exempt.
Verified officialJob offer
MandatoryA job offer from an Irish employer for an eligible occupation, with a minimum annual salary of €36,605 (2026) based on a 39-hour week, or lower thresholds for specific categories such as graduates.
Verified official
Preparation
(2)Permit duration
DocumentInformationalThe permit is granted for up to 2 years initially and can lead to long-term residence after 5 years.
Verified officialLabour market needs test
DocumentMandatoryThe employer must advertise the role on EURES and in national media for at least 28 days before applying.
Verified official
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Source citations
Irish Immigration Service — ISD
Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service
Official Irish immigration service portal.
Employment Permits Fees — DETE
Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment
Official fee schedule for Irish employment permits.
Irish Visa Processing Times
Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service
Irish visa decisions (updated 6 Oct 2026): Dublin is processing applications received before the shown dates: employment 08 Aug 2026, business 27 Aug 2026, study 22 Jun 2026, tourism 07 Oct 2025, join family 04 Jul 2024 (Irish citizen sponsor). Dates, not days; updated every Tuesday.
General Employment Permit — DETE
Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment
General Employment Permit for working in Ireland.
Official links
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