Visas and Work Permits
If you want to work in Ireland and you are a Non-EU/EEA citizen, you will need to apply for a visa or work permit which can only be arranged after you have been offered employment. Your application for a visa can be made by you directly or your employer with two types of employment visa/permits available to you provided your profession is on the critical skills short-list.
Critical Skills Visa
However, if you do not fit into either of the above categories, you will need a work permit. An application for a work permit can be made by either the employer or the employee. The following documentation must be supplied:
- A fully completed employment permit application form signed by both your employer and you, the employee;
- The position you are applying for is on the critical skills shortage list (click here);
- Evidence of the employee’s certified qualifications;
- The appropriate processing fee paid for by the applicant (employer or employee);
- A copy of the registration documentation with the appropriate medical body or validation of qualifications from the Department of Health and Children should also be attached.
A-typical Permit
This permit is used for Non-EU/EEA candidates looking to work in Ireland on a short term basis. The purpose of this permit is to enable doctors and nurses to work on a short-term basis and is ideal for candidates who prefer working in different regions on a rotational basis. You must be on the critical skills short-list in order to be considered for this type of permit. The process is:
- Your employer or agency point of contact can complete this application on your behalf and submit/liaise with Dept. of Justice Officials to expedite the process for you.
- Effective 21st November 2019, the AWS permit enables you to enter the State for a period of 90 days. You will be allowed to leave the state during this period for a maximum of 14 days during a 90 day AWS permit.
- IF YOU LEAVE THE STATE FOR LONGER THAN THE PERMITTED 14 DAYS DURING THE 90 DAY PERMIT ALLOWANCE, YOU WILL RENDER YOUR PERMIT INVALID AND WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO RE-ENTER IRELAND UNTIL THE 90 DAY PERIOD HAS ELAPSED.
- Once your AWS permit expires, you can re-apply immediately for a new permit which is a new and welcome addition that INIS have introduced to the AWS permit scheme
- You can apply for 3 AWS permits within a 12 month calendar year.
Note: Your passport must be in date and valid for at least three months after the proposed expiry date of the work permit