Ireland has made major updates to its employment permit system to address labour shortages in construction and high-performance sports. The government has expanded eligibility for both Critical Skills Employment Permits (CSEPs) and General Employment Permits (GEPs), opening new opportunities for skilled non-EEA workers.
Roles such as civil engineers, quantity surveyors, construction project managers, mechanical and electrical engineers with BIM experience, and high-performance sports coaches and directors are now eligible for CSEPs. These permits offer significant advantages, including a two-year permit, no need for a labour market needs test, immediate family reunification rights, and a pathway to long-term residency.
At the same time, several skilled trade and support roles have been removed from the ineligible list, making them eligible for GEPs. This includes sheet metal workers, welders, pipefitters, air-conditioning and refrigeration engineers, shuttering carpenters, glaziers, scaffolders, riggers, and crane drivers. Some support roles such as freight forwarders, plasterers, and bricklayers are now permitted under a quota system, with limited spots available, so early application is important.
For those planning to apply, it’s important to understand the permit types. The CSEP is aimed at degree holders with specialized experience and comes with more immigration benefits, including no labour market test. The GEP suits skilled trade professionals and requires a labour market test but still leads to residency over time. Quota-based GEPs follow the same rules as standard GEPs but are limited in number.
Applicants will need a job offer from an Irish employer, verified qualifications and experience, proof of meeting salary thresholds ranging from €30,000 to €60,000 depending on the role, and clean background and medical checks. Applications can be submitted directly, with no need to go through an agent.
