From the start of September, Ireland will start applying more flexible work permit rules in a bid to meet labour market needs and retain the talent already in the country.

The law that modernises the rules governing employment permits in Ireland came into effect September 2^nd, 2024.

Under the new rules, certain categories of permit holders will be able to change employer after a nine-month period. Subcontractors will be given access to the employment permit system.

There will be a requirement for additional conditions such as training and accommodation support for employment permit holders. The new regulations will allow for non-consultant hospital doctors to have a permit which will allow them to work at multiple sites. The changes will also allow permit holders to be promoted within their roles without the need for a new permit.

The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment has said this provision will support agriculture and horticulture in addressing labour shortages and will be renewable across multiple years for the set calendar season.

Its intent is to support the market needs in certain sectors, such as fruit picking, Ireland will introduce a new seasonal employment permit. The document will be targeted at those who only want to work in the country for short periods of time.

For example, berry pickers are only needed in the country during the harvest season. This permit is expected to significantly benefit this group of foreign workers and businesses within the country that need more workers during certain seasons.

A new quota of 500 permits will be granted to the home care sector, while a further quota of 250 permits will be issued to line workers to help relieve the pressure on the ESB Networks’ overhead line framework contractors.

The Employment Permits Act 2024 applies to people from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) who wish to take up eligible employment and residence in Ireland.

The Government said the changes to the permit system will make it more easily adaptable, allowing it to respond quickly to changes in the labour market and business needs.

“The improvements in the new Act will allow for a more modern, flexible employment permits system as well as ensuring employee rights are maintained,” said Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Peter Burke.

 

NB – This is a guide for information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. If you have an issue requiring legal advice, please contact any of the team at Nolan Farrell & Goff LLP, whose numbers can be found on our website www.nfg.ie, or email info@nfg.ie.