Alternative Employment Permit Options
Ireland offers several employment permit options for non-EEA nationals in specific circumstances. These permits provide legal pathways for individuals to work in Ireland under different conditions, depending on their background and the nature of their employment.
Reactivation Employment Permit
The Reactivation Employment Permit is designed for non-EEA nationals who originally entered Ireland on a valid employment permit but lost their legal status due to circumstances beyond their control. This could include cases of employer exploitation, mistreatment, or redundancy where the individual was unable to secure new employment within the six-month grace period granted by the Department of Business, Enterprise, and Innovation (DBEI).
To regain lawful employment, individuals must first apply for a temporary Stamp 1 immigration permission through Immigration Service Delivery (ISD). Once approved, they can proceed with an application for a Reactivation Employment Permit from the DBEI.
Contracts for Services Employment Permit
The Contracts for Services Employment Permit applies when a foreign company has entered into a contract to provide services to an Irish business. This permit allows employees of the foreign company to be temporarily transferred to Ireland to carry out the contractual work while remaining under the foreign employer’s payroll and contract.
To be eligible, the foreign employer must be registered with both the Irish Companies Registration Office (CRO) and the Revenue Commissioners. This ensures compliance with Irish business regulations.
Internship Employment Permit
The Internship Employment Permit is intended for full-time non-EEA students enrolled in an overseas third-level institution who wish to gain work experience in Ireland. This permit enables them to temporarily work in the country while continuing their studies.
To qualify, the internship must be in a role listed on the Highly Skilled Occupations List. The permit is issued for a maximum duration of 12 months and cannot be renewed.
Sport and Cultural Employment Permit
The Sport and Cultural Employment Permit is specifically designed for individuals whose work contributes to the development, promotion, and enhancement of Ireland’s sports and cultural sectors. This permit facilitates the employment of non-EEA nationals in roles that positively impact these industries.
Exchange Agreement Employment Permit
Certain international agreements allow non-EEA nationals to work in Ireland under specific exchange programs. The Exchange Agreement Employment Permit enables individuals to participate in work arrangements that are governed by international treaties or agreements in which Ireland is a party.
- Employment Permit Types & Overview
- Highly Skilled Worker Permit
- Standard Employment Work Permit
- Work Transfer Permit for Company Employees
- Alternative Employment Permit Options
- Work Permit Schemes for Skilled Labour
- Short-Term Work Permission for EU Employees
- Employer-Supported Residency Applications
- Employment Rules for Posted Workers in Ireland