Ireland introduces Critical Skills Employment Permit visa for skilled Professionals

As Ireland seeks to enhance its workforce with top-tier-talent, the Critical Skills Employment Permit is positioned as a key instrument in achieving economic development objectives.

This permit according to the Irish government is often obtained with a job offer for roles on the Critical Skills Occupations List; it offers a streamlined pathway to work and residency, focusing on boosting economic growth.

The Critical Skills Employment Permit (CSEP) is designed for professionals in sectors such as Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Engineering, Architecture, and Healthcare, aiming to attract individuals with specialized skills to contribute to key industries.

READ ALSO: SEE NEW FIFA MEN COMPETITION STARTING BY MARCH 2024

The key advantages of the Critical Skills Employment Permit (CSEP) in 2024 include a direct route for legal work and residency, employment flexibility allowing for employer switches after one year, family reunification options, and a potential pathway to permanent residency for permit holders.

However, and contrary to misconceptions, CSEP is not a job seeker visa but a specialized work permit for those with job offer in highly skilled professions experiencing labour shortages.

Occupations listed on the Critical Skills Occupations List mention earlier are eligible.

About the Critical Skills Employment Permit (CSEP)

Valentine202.com learnt about the program which aims to provide immediate work permits without the need for an IELTS. Also, Ireland presents a hospitable and family-oriented setting, allowing foreign workers and their families to integrate seamlessly and appreciate the nation’s scenic landscapes.

There are various benefits of the program which are;

• No Language Test Needed: the applicant’s skills are priority with no language proficiency exams standing in the way to work in Ireland.
• Exempt from Labour Market Testing: The Critical Skills Employment Permit waives the need for a labour market impact assessment, making the application process more straightforward.
• Immediate Work Permits: This program offers fast-tracked work permit processing.
• Welcome to Families: The program enables easy relocation with family members through spousal work visas which are easily accessible.

Eligibility Criteria and Application Process:

• Prospective application must have been offered a two year job offer.
• Prospective applicant must have a minimum annual salary of € 38,000.
• A non-EEA national who does not have degree qualification or higher, must have the necessary level of experience.
• An application for any employment permit must be received at atleast 12 weeks before the proposed employment start date.

The application for a Critical Skills Employment Permit can be made online on the Employment Permits Online System (EPOS). There is a User Guide available on the online system which guides the applicants through the process and details the documentary requirements for each employment permit type.

Before you start your application, the Critical Skills Employment Permit Checklist can be checked to assist in the process.

Nevertheless, distinguishing itself from the regular Irish work visas, CSEP provides faster processing, exemption from labour market assessments, and a straightforward to residency.

While having a job offer is advisable for a smoother process, individuals with exceptional skills in high-demand areas may apply without one, though through a more complex route.

Please also note that Eligibility criteria include alignment with Critical Skills Occupations List, specific qualifications and experience, and meeting the minimum salary threshold.

Prospective applicants need to cheek eligibility, prepare documentation, submit an online application through the Employment permits Online System (EPOS), and pay a non-refundable fee of €1,000 with a 90% percent refund for unsuccessful applications.

Lastly, regarding financial stability, no specific minimum bank balance is mandated, but applicants must demonstrate financial stability through bank statements ideally covering living expenses for 3 – 6 months in Ireland.

Spread the Word: If you found this post useful, help others discover it too! Just click and share using the buttons below!