Ireland’s attractive immigration policies and work permit procedures have drawn attention to companies wishing to expand into Europe in a post-pandemic, post-Brexit world. Emma Richmond outlines what companies should consider before making a move.

As travel restrictions ease globally, many businesses are focusing on strategic expansion into Ireland in a post-pandemic, post-Brexit world. In many cases, this expansion is driven by a business need to have an English-speaking European base. In addition, the desire of key employees who, having reassessed their lifestyle over the past 18 months and now wish to relocate with their family to explore new opportunities, is also a driving factor. Compared to other EU member states, Ireland’s immigration policies and work permit procedures are relatively straightforward. This is something that continues to attract multinationals and foreign direct investment to Ireland.

We have seen a significant increase in work permit applications over the past three months, driven by activity in the market. The records show that 9,526 work permits were issued to non-EEA nationals between January and August 2021, which creates a significant amount of work for business in Ireland. Here are some things companies should consider.

Work permits

All non-EEA citizens require a work permit to work in Ireland, and certain non-EEA citizens will also need a visa to enter the country. Typically, companies investing in Ireland are interested in the Critical Skills Work Permit and the Intra Company Transfer permit.

Critical Skills Work Permit

This is easily the most popular type of work permit sought by companies relocating to Ireland. The key advantage of this permit is that it provides long-term access to citizenship in the event of the employee wishing to relocate to Ireland permanently and provides easy access for the spouse or dependant of the work permit holder to the jobs market. These are all key considerations where there is a long-term goal for either the company or the employee. The role offered needs to be on the Critical Skills Occupation List and have a salary of at least €32,000 per annum. However, all roles with a salary of €64,000 and above (and not on the ineligible list) are eligible.

Intra Company Transfer Permit

This permit provides for the temporary transfer of key personnel to Ireland on an initial two-year basis, which may be extended up to five years. Typically, this is used for crucial personnel required to establish the business in Ireland, ensuring the right local personnel are hired and providing a key decision-maker on the ground when critical start-up decisions are made. The maximum duration of this work permit is five years, so it is ultimately not suitable for someone looking to relocate permanently or achieve citizenship.

Employment documents

A copy of a valid contract of employment or letter of appointment will be required as part of the permit application. The employer must also demonstrate that they have registered with Revenue as an employer, and their ERN will be needed for the application.

Additional documents such as employee handbooks and policies will assist the employer in running their business as it grows but will not need to be furnished at the application stage.

Emma Richmond is Employment and Immigration Partner at Whitney Moore Law Firm.