General Employment Permit
🇮🇪 Ireland visas · Work
What it is
The main employment permit for non-EEA workers in occupations not on the ineligible list, where the employer has tested the labour market. Initially issued for up to two years and renewable, with a pathway to long-term residency after five years.
Key facts
- Category
- Work
- Duration
- Up to 24 months initially, renewable up to 3 more years (5 years total)
- Processing time
- 12+ weeks; processed in date order by employer type
- Extendable
- Yes
- Path to permanent residence
- Indirect route
- Dependants
- Yes
- How to apply
- Online
- Health insurance
- Not required
Standard figures for this route. Some applicants pay a reduced fee or none at all, so confirm your own case on the official page.
Fees
- Application fee (permit up to 24 months)
- EUR 1,000
- Application fee (6 months or less)
- EUR 500
Key requirements
- Job offer from a registered, trading Irish employer
- Minimum annual salary generally EUR 36,605 (sector exceptions apply)
- Occupation not on the Ineligible List of Occupations
- Labour Market Needs Test completed in most cases
- Employer must meet the 50:50 EEA-nationals rule
Working on this visa
Work for the named employer in the role stated on the permit.
Facts checked against the official source. Last updated 8 August 2026.