Ireland to Introduce More Favourable Work Permit Rules Starting September 2
Summary
1. Changes to Ireland’s work permit system will take effect on September 2, 2024.
2. The new rules will make the employment permit system more flexible.
3. Some categories of work permit holders will be allowed to change employers after nine months.
Details
Ireland will implement more flexible work permit rules next week to address labor market needs and retain talent already present in the country. Starting September 2, 2024, several important changes designed to streamline the process for foreign workers and employers will come into effect.
Announcing the updates, Peter Burke, Ireland’s Minister for Enterprise, Trade, and Employment, highlighted that the improvements to the country’s Employment Permits Acts would create a more adaptable system while ensuring employees' rights are upheld. He emphasized that the new Act will provide a modern, flexible employment permits system that continues to protect employee rights.
Key Changes Under the New Rules
According to RTE, the new rules will allow certain categories of work permit holders to switch employers after just nine months. Additionally, to support labor needs in specific sectors, such as fruit picking, Ireland will introduce a new seasonal employment permit. While the authorities have yet to disclose details about this permit, it will be aimed at those who want to work in the country for short periods. For instance, berry pickers are typically needed only during harvest season, and this permit is expected to greatly benefit such workers and businesses requiring additional labor during peak seasons.
Another significant change is that work permit holders will be allowed to receive promotions within their roles without needing to apply for a new permit. Moreover, the new rules will include additional conditions, such as provisions for accommodation and training, to better support work permit holders.
New Quotas for Work Permits in Specific Sectors
RTE reports that a new quota of 500 work permits will be allocated to the home care sector, and an additional 250 permits will be issued for lineworkers. By increasing these quotas, Ireland aims to alleviate the strain on ESB Networks’ overhead line framework contractors.
Minister Burke noted that these changes would benefit both permit holders and employers in Ireland. Emer Higgins, the Minister of State for Business, Employment, and Retail, also emphasized the importance of attracting more foreign talent to prevent future labor shortages.