Visa and Residency

Securing permission to work in Ireland as a non-EEA national can be a complex and difficult process.  There are a number of employment permit schemes available for example a General Employment Permit, Critical Skills Employment Permit or Dependent Partner / Spouse Employment Permit to name a few.

We advise both employers and potential employees on the best option to secure a permit to work in Ireland for their specific needs. We prepare detailed employment permit applications and appeals to the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation and assist clients throughout the application procedure.   There have been recent changes and updates in this area of immigration law so it is crucial that business owners and applicants are familiar with developments.

There are two main changes coming into place from the 1st January 2020.

• Changes to the remuneration threshold for a Critical Skills Employment Permit;

• The advertising period requirement of the Labour Market Needs Test.

Contact us for more information on Irish employment permit options.

Coming to the UK to work as a non-EEA national means applying through the current Points-Based System.  Most applicants will apply for a Tier 2 visa which replaces an older work permit scheme. Before you can apply for a work permit UK you must satisfy the following work permit requirements:

• Have received a confirmed offer of employment from a licensed UK employer who will act as your sponsor; and

• Be in possession of a Certificate of Sponsorship issued by your sponsoring employer; and

• Pass the points-based assessment.

We provide a full range of advice on various visa and UK residency options for non-EEA citizens who wish travel, work, conduct business or study in the UK.  Contact our solicitors for more information on how we can assist you.