General Employment Permit

One of the most widely used work permits in Ireland. Applies to a wide range of occupations not included in the Critical Skills Occupations List, but still considered necessary for the Irish labour market.

Wide Variety

Applies to a wide variety of occupations in the Irish market

Labour Market Test

Requires proof that the vacancy was advertised on the market

57 Months to Stamp 4

Access to Stamp 4 after continuous legal residence under permits

Family Reunification

Possible after meeting the applicable requirements

This is a solid option for non-EEA professionals who have received a valid job offer from an Irish employer and wish to work and live legally in Ireland.

Key Characteristics

Applies to a wide variety of occupations
Requires greater participation and documentation from the employer
Has specific rules for renewal and immigration progression
May allow family reunification after meeting the applicable requirements

Important difference: Unlike the Critical Skills Employment Permit, which allows Stamp 4 application after 21 months, the General Employment Permit enables access to Stamp 4 only after 57 months of continuous legal residence under work permits.

Main Requirements

Candidate Requirements

Be registered in the Employment Permits Online System (EPOS)
Valid job offer from an Irish employer
Academic qualification and/or professional experience compatible with the role
Be legally in Ireland or abroad at the time of application

Employer Requirements

Be registered in the Employment Permits Online System (EPOS)
Be legally established and operating in Ireland
Be registered with the Revenue Commissioners
Be in full tax compliance
Offer a genuine employment contract
(50:50 rule) Prove that at least 50% of employees are Irish or EEA citizens

Labour Market Needs Test

As a general rule, the General Employment Permit requires the Labour Market Needs Test, which demonstrates that the vacancy was previously advertised in the Irish and European labour market, without being able to fill it with a local or EEA candidate.

Note: There are legal exceptions, evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

Minimum Salary Required

€36,605For occupations eligible for GEP, provided they are not on the Ineligible List
€32,691For specific occupations such as meat processors, horticultural workers, healthcare assistants and home carers
€34,009For recent graduates during the first 12 months of Stamp 1G

Ineligible Occupations List

The General Employment Permit cannot be granted for roles included in the Ineligible List of Occupations - DETE. This list identifies occupations that are not eligible under any circumstances for the GEP.

View Ineligible List of Occupations - DETE

Frequently Asked Questions

General Employment Permit

The Critical Skills Employment Permit allows faster access to Stamp 4. The General Employment Permit applies to more occupations, but requires a longer period before progression (57 months).

Ready to start your process?

Schedule a consultation to verify your eligibility for the General Employment Permit. We analyse the position, employer and requirements to ensure a solid application.