Work permits - main features

Work permits - main features

• Work permits are available for occupations with an annual salary of €30,000 or more.
• Work permits for jobs with an annual salary below €30,000 will only be considered in exceptional cases
• Work permits will not be considered for occupations listed as ineligible for work permits - see below
• The work permit is granted for 2 years initially, and then for a further 3 years. After 5 years you may no longer need a work permit - see 'Renewal of work permits' below.
• A labour market needs test (see below) is required with all work permit applications
• Either the employer or employee can apply for the employment permit, based on an offer of employment
• It will be granted to the employee and will include a statement of the employee's rights and entitlements
• The employer is prohibited from deducting recruitment expenses from the employee's pay or retaining the employee's personal documents

Once you have been issued with an employment permit you have all the employment rights of Irish or EU citizens for the duration of the employment permit.