Employment Rights for Asylum Applicants in Ireland
Understanding your right to work and how to apply for labour market access.
Right to Work for Asylum Seekers
✔️ Since 2nd July 2018, asylum seekers can apply for permission to work in Ireland.
✔️ The permission is valid for 6 months and can be renewed if your international protection application is still pending.
✔️ A final decision includes the completion of all appeals and judicial review procedures.
Eligibility Criteria
You can apply if:
✔️ You are an international protection applicant.
✔️ You have not received a first-instance recommendation within 9 months.
✔️ The delay in your application is not due to your actions.
When to Apply:
You can submit your application after 8 months, and your permission will be valid after 9 months.
How to Apply
Download the application form (LMA3)
Read the information booklet – Labour Market Access for International Protection Applicants.
If Your Application is Successful
✔️ You will receive a permission letter from Immigration Service Delivery.
✔️ Your employer must complete Form LMA5 & Form LMA6.
✔️ These forms must be sent to:
Reception and Integration Agency
PO Box 11487, Dublin 2
Related Documents
Form LMA5 – Labour Market Access Declaration (PDF 221KB)
Form LMA6 – Employment Income Declaration (PDF 326KB)
- Overview of International Protection Law
- Refugee Status Application Process
- Secondary Protection for Asylum Seekers
- Discretionary Leave to Remain
- Steps to Apply for Asylum in Ireland
- Eligibility for Asylum & Refugee Status
- Asylum & Protection Application Process
- Challenging a Denied Asylum Application
- Refugee Family Sponsorship
- Provisional Residency Permit and Housing Support
- Employment Rights for Asylum Applicants
- Correction of Identity in Asylum Claims