Ireland announces flexible work permit rules for foreign workers

DUBLIN, IRELAND — Ireland has introduced more flexible work permit regulations starting September 2, 2024, aimed at addressing labor market needs and retaining existing talent.
The new rules, part of the Employment Permits Act 2024, are designed to facilitate foreign workers’ and employers’ navigating of the permit process while swiftly responding to shifts in the labor market.
“The improvements in the new Act will allow for a more modern, flexible employment permits system as well as ensuring employee rights are maintained. It will greatly benefit employers and permit holders alike,” said Peter Burke, Ireland’s Minister for Enterprise, Trade, and Employment.
Key changes in work permit regulations
Under the updated rules, some employment permit holders will be able to switch employers after nine months, enhancing worker mobility. A new seasonal employment permit will also be introduced to meet the specific needs of sectors like fruit picking, which rely heavily on seasonal labor.
Subcontractors will now have access to the employment permit system, broadening opportunities for foreign workers in various industries. The new regulations also impose additional requirements on employers, including provisions for training and accommodation support for permit holders.
Expanded quotas and sector-specific changes
The new regulations expand employment permit quotas for key roles:
- 500 permits allocated to the home care sector
- 250 permits issued to lineworkers for ESB Networks’ overhead line framework contractors
Additionally, non-consultant hospital doctors can now hold permits enabling them to work at multiple sites, improving flexibility within the healthcare sector. Permit holders can also be promoted within their roles without applying for a new permit.
“Ireland needs to attract more international talent,” said Emer Higgins, Minister of State for Business, Employment, and Retail.
“This new law, along with recent measures like the granting of work rights to the eligible spouses and partners of certain employment permit holders and the rollout of a single permission to both work and live in Ireland – will massively help to achieve this goal.”