Critical Skills permits are processed in ~2 weeks — compared to 3 months for General Employment Permits. They also do not require a Labour Market Needs Test (LMNT), making the application significantly simpler. Check if your role is on the Critical Skills Occupations List.
⚠️
New salary thresholds from 1 March 2026: With relevant degree: €40,904/yr (up from €38,000). Without degree: €68,911/yr (up from €64,000). Phased increases continue to 2030.
Your progress
0 of 12 items completed0%
📋
1. Application
Via EPOS online system — simpler than General Permit
2 items
Required
Completed online application via EPOS
At epos.djei.ie — employer or applicant can initiate
Required
Application fee
Critical Skills: approx. €1,000 for 2 years. Non-refundable
🏢
2. Job & employer documents
No LMNT required — fewer documents than General Permit
3 items
Required
Signed contract of employment
Annual salary must be at least €40,904 (with degree, from Mar 2026) or €68,911 (without degree)
Required
Job description confirming role is on the Critical Skills Occupations List
Check current list at enterprise.gov.ie — role must be on the list OR salary must be €64,000+
Required
Evidence employer is registered and tax compliant in Ireland
CRO certificate + Tax Clearance Certificate
🎓
3. Qualifications & applicant documents
Degree-level qualification is usually required
5 items
Required
Degree certificate or higher qualification
Translated to English if applicable — must be relevant to the role
Required
Transcript of qualifications
Academic record showing subjects and grades
Conditional
Recognition of foreign qualification (if required)
For regulated professions: evidence of recognition from Irish regulatory body (e.g. NMBI for nurses, IMC for doctors)
Required
CV showing relevant experience
Copy
Applicant passport copy — valid for duration of permit + 6 months
⚡
4. Fast-track options
No LMNT + possible Trusted Partner fast-track
2 items
Required
No Labour Market Needs Test required
Critical Skills Permits are exempt from LMNT — a key advantage over General Permits
Conditional
If Trusted Partner employer: confirm status with DETE
Trusted Partner applications processed in 2–5 working days vs standard 2 weeks
Not legal advice. Requirements may vary by nationality, embassy, and individual circumstances. Always verify the latest requirements at irishimmigration.ie before submitting your application. CitizenshipCalculator.com is not affiliated with the Irish Government.