At the end of 2023, Ireland’s Employment Permit System saw the largest expansion ever.
Major changes took place including the addition of new roles to the Critical Skills List, removal of occupations from the Ineligible list and an increase in salary thresholds.
After a few years since the previous changes in the occupations lists, this announcement represents a significant development for the Employment Permit System in Ireland.
From revised salary thresholds to new roles added to the lists, let’s delve into the latest developments.
What New Occupations Are Eligible for Employment Permits?
This has been the first time since 2019 that we have seen multiple occupations added to the Critical Skills list or removed from the Ineligible list. However, this time around, the update was a lot more substantial.
So, let’s see what’s new!
There are 9 new positions included in the Critical Skills Occupations List, while 32 now qualify for a General Employment Permit.
The new occupations included in the Critical Skills List include:
BIM Coordinator/Technician
BIM Manager
Chemical Engineer
Commercial Manager
Estimator
Meteorologist
Professional Forester
Project Engineer
Resource modelling, earth observation and data analyst
The occupations that are now eligible for the General Employment Permit include:
Armature Rewinder
HGV mechanic
Skilled metal, electrical and electronic trades supervisors
Autism Assistance Dog Instructor
Metal plate workers and riveters
Smiths and forge workers
Baker
Moulders, core makers and die casters
Social Care Worker
Butchers/(de)boner
Pig Farm Assistants
Speciality Forestry Harvesting Technician
Car mechanic, Motor mechanic, Auto electrician, Motor vehicle technician
Pig Managers
Support Worker (social, community, public and charity)
Electrician, electrical contractor, electrical engineer
Play Therapist – in Disability Services
Textile Process Operatives
Family Support Workers – in Disability Services
Project Offices, Disability
Upholstery and furniture operatives
Furniture makers and other craft woodworkers
Residential Day and Domiciliary Case Managers – in Disability Services
Vehicle bodybuilders and repairers/Body shop panel beaters
Genetic Counsellor
Saw Doctor/Wood Machine Mechanic
Vehicle paint technician
Guide Dog Mobility Instructor for the Visually Impaired
Senior Care Workers – in Disability Services
Wood Machine Operatives
Read also:
Our guide to working in Ireland, the job market and employment permits
What Are the Revised Salary Thresholds and Which Occupations Do They Apply To?
In the December 2023 announcement, a plan to also gradually raise the minimum salary requirements for all kinds of work permits was released.
General Employment Permits previously had a salary threshold of €30,000. This meant that to qualify for a General Employment Permit, the job needed to pay at least €30,000 per year.
However, it was announced that this threshold will increase to €34,000 starting from January 2024. Following that, more increases will happen in 2025.
Additionally, increases in salary for specific industries were also announced. These industries include home carers, healthcare assistants, horticultural workers, and meat processors. Their salary is said to increase to a minimum of €30,000 a year.
Minister Neale Richmond noted that salaries will be increased gradually to facilitate a smooth transition, giving industries like agriculture and healthcare enough time to get ready.
The threshold changes will be as follows:
Type of Employment Permit
Thresholds until Dec 2023
Thresholds from January 2024
(Approximate)Change from January 2025
General Employment Permit
€30,000
€34,000
€39,000
General Employment Permit for Butcher/Boner
€27,500
€34,000
€39,000
Contract for Services Employment permit
€40,000
€46,000
€53,000
Critical Skills Employment Permit with occupation on the Critical Skills list and a relevant degree
€32,000
€38,000
€44,000
Critical skills without a degree or occupations that are not on the Critical Skills list
€64,000
No changes
No changes
Graduate Positions – Language Skills Specialist
€27,000
€34,000
€39,000
Healthcare Assistant/ Home Carer
€27,000
€30,000
€34,000
Intra-Company Transfer (Trainee)
€30,000
€34,000
€39,000
Intra-Company Transfer
€40,000
€46,000
€53,000
Horticulture/ Meat Processing
€22,916
€30,000
€32,000
*Note that figures may be subject to change.
Why were these changes made?
These changes were made for reasons such as:
The salary threshold was stagnant for almost a decade
There was a need to keep pace with economic growth and inflation in Ireland
The necessity for fair compensation for the vital contributions of migrant workers to the Irish economy and society
In summary, these adjustments attempt to match the Employment Permit System with present needs, making sure there are enough skilled workers to support the Irish economy.
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Visa First can help you obtain a General Employment Permit, a Critical Skills Employment Permit or an Intra-company Transfer Employment Permit.
Whether you are an employee or an employer, Visa First is your one-stop shop for employment permits and visas.
We will ensure your application is prepared in line with the requirements and that your chances of a successful outcome are increased!
We’ve been processing visas worldwide for over two decades, so you can rest assured you’re in safe hands.
Get started with your Irish work permit application today!
Irish Employment System FAQs
Will employers be required to raise salaries when renewing employment permits in 2024?
The necessity to increase salaries when renewing employment permits in 2024 depends on several factors, including the specific type of permit and any changes to salary thresholds.
If the salary threshold for the relevant permit category has increased, employers may need to adjust salaries accordingly to meet the new criteria.
Why did Ireland’s Employment Permit System expand and change so much in 2024?
The system expanded and changed mainly because there were not enough skilled workers in different parts of the Irish economy.
Also, the salary thresholds were stagnant for almost a decade, so they needed to be reviewed to ensure migrant workers were fairly compensated and to match the economy’s growth and rising prices.
How will these changes impact employers and industries reliant on migrant workers?
Employers will have to pay higher salaries to meet the new requirements, which may require financial planning and budget adjustments.
Industries that heavily rely on migrant workers, like healthcare, agriculture, and construction, will need to make sure they can attract and retain skilled workers by offering competitive salaries.
How can employers and prospective employees navigate these changes effectively?
Employers should stay informed about updates to the Employment Permit System and adjust their hiring practices accordingly.
Prospective employees should consult official sources, such as the Department of Business, Enterprise, and Innovation, for the most up-to-date information.
The post Ireland’s Employment Permit System: What’s New In 2024? appeared first on Welcome to the official Visa First blog!.
