IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Irish officials have launched a review of the occupation lists that determine who is eligible for employment permits.

What does the change mean? Employers and other stakeholders may submit recommendations on changes to the Critical Skills List and the Ineligible Occupations List. Suggestions must be submitted to the Economic Migration Policy Unit of the Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation by July 12.

  • Implementation time frame: Between now and July 12.
  • Visas/permits affected: Employment permits.
  • Who is affected: Irish companies hiring and recruiting foreign employees.
  • Next steps: Information on how to submit recommendations is available on this website.

Background: The Critical Skills List and the Ineligible Occupations List play key roles in Ireland’s employment permit scheme. In some cases, employment permits can be obtained for occupations that are not on either list; however, Critical Skills Employment Permit applicants earning under the €60,000 threshold are restricted to only those occupations found on the Critical Skills List. Employment permits cannot be granted to workers in jobs on the Ineligible Occupations List. The lists, which are reviewed twice a year, are available on the DBEI website.

Analysis & Comments: The review offers employers an opportunity to be heard about which occupations should be open to foreign workers. Those interested in providing feedback should do between now and July 12. Those with questions or in need of assistance are encouraged to contact Deloitte.

Source: Deloitte LLP. Deloitte LLP is a limited liability partnership registered in England and Wales with registered number OC303675 and its registered office at 1 New Street Square, London EC4A 3HQ, United Kingdom.