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At $1,100, the General Employment Permit is the 41st-cheapest of the 64 skilled-work visas Transita tracks, above the $480 median. Its 3.5-month average processing time ranks it 40th-fastest, quicker than 38% of the others.
About the General Employment Permit
The General Employment Permit is Ireland's skilled worker visa programme and one of the most direct routes to permanent residence, typically achievable within 5 years. Employer-sponsored work permit for non-shortage-list roles. Renewable, leads to Stamp 4 + PR after 5 years.
Applications are processed in 2–5 months on average. Government fees start at $1,100, and the visa is valid for 2 years. Employer sponsorship is required. You must have a qualifying job offer before applying.
The General Employment Permit is suited to work in tech.
Weighing Ireland against another destination? See how it stacks up on visa speed, cost, and permanent residency:
Eligibility requirements
| Job offer required | Yes |
|---|---|
| Minimum salary | $36,000 / year |
official sources: GEP · enterprise.gov.ie
Key facts
Best for
Path to permanent residence
Can lead to PR in approximately 5 years.
Validity period
2 years (tied to employer)
Employer sponsorship required
You need a qualifying employer to sponsor your application.
How to apply for the General Employment Permit
- 01
Secure a qualifying job offer
Find an employer in Ireland willing to sponsor your GEP application. The role must meet occupation and salary requirements (minimum $36,000/year).
- 02
Gather your supporting documents
Compile educational credentials, employment history, passport, and any certificates. Have foreign documents officially translated.
- 03
Submit your GEP application
File online through the official Ireland immigration portal and pay the government fee of $1,100. Double-check all forms for errors before submission. Mistakes cause delays.
- 04
Attend biometrics and medical (if required)
You may be asked to provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo) at an approved centre. Some visa categories also require a medical examination by an approved physician.
- 05
Receive decision (2–5 months)
Standard processing takes 2–5 months. Premium or expedited processing may be available for an additional fee. Avoid booking travel until you have a confirmed outcome.
What it costs
Attorney fees and document costs not included. Total spend is typically 2–5x the government fee.
Frequently asked questions
What are the main requirements for the General Employment Permit?
A qualifying job offer from a Ireland employer, A salary of at least $36,000/year
How long does the General Employment Permit take to process?
Processing time for the General Employment Permit is typically 2–5 months from the date a complete application is received. Timelines vary depending on application volume, the completeness of your documents, and whether additional checks are requested. Check the official Ireland immigration website for current processing times before applying.
How much does the General Employment Permit cost?
The government application fee for the General Employment Permit is $1,100 USD. Total costs (including legal fees, document translations, medical exams, and biometrics) typically run 2–5x the base government fee. Budget accordingly before starting your application.
Does the General Employment Permit lead to permanent residence?
Yes. The General Employment Permit is one of the pathways to permanent residence in Ireland. Eligible holders can generally apply for PR after approximately 5 years of qualifying residence. Conditions apply, so consult a licensed immigration adviser for your specific situation.
Do I need a job offer for the General Employment Permit?
Yes. A confirmed job offer from a qualifying Ireland employer is required before you can apply for the General Employment Permit. The employer typically needs to demonstrate they could not find a suitable local candidate and must meet specific sponsorship obligations.