Ireland Work Permit Occupations Lists Review: What You Need to Know

Thinking of working in Ireland? You’re not alone. Every year, thousands of international professionals consider relocating to this friendly and fast-growing country. One of the most important steps in the process is understanding the Ireland Work Permit Occupations Lists—and that’s exactly what we’ll explore in this in-depth review.

Whether you’re in IT, healthcare, construction, or engineering, this guide gives you a clear and updated overview of the occupations in demand in Ireland. Plus, we’ll show you where to check the official sources for the most current information.

What Are the Ireland Work Permit Occupations Lists?

Ireland uses two main types of occupations lists to manage its immigration and labour market:

1. Critical Skills Occupations List
2. Ineligible List of Occupations for Employment Permits

These lists help the government decide who can apply for a work permit and which roles are considered high-priority due to skill shortages.

Let’s break each down clearly.

1. Critical Skills Occupations List (CSOL)

The Critical Skills Occupations List includes roles that are vital to Ireland’s economy. These jobs usually require specific qualifications and experience and are eligible for the Critical Skills Employment Permit, which is designed to attract highly skilled professionals from outside the European Economic Area (EEA).

Key Benefits:

• No labour market test
• Fast-tracked residency (eligible for Stamp 4 after 2 years)
• Spouse/partner can work without an extra permit

Examples of jobs on the list (2025):

• Software engineers
• ICT professionals
• Civil engineers
• Quantity surveyors
• Medical practitioners
• Radiographers
• Nurses
• Science and technology professionals

See the full Critical Skills list (official)

2. Ineligible List of Occupations for Employment Permits

This list contains jobs that are not eligible for an employment permit because there’s no shortage of local workers in those fields.

Examples of jobs NOT on the permit list:

• Waiters and waitresses
• Retail sales assistants
• Kitchen porters
• General operatives
• Clerical officers

It’s crucial to avoid applying for jobs listed here as you won’t qualify for any work permit.

 Check the full Ineligible Occupations list (official)

Why the Review of These Lists Matters 

In recent years, the Irish labour market has changed significantly, especially after Brexit and post-pandemic economic shifts. The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment (DETE) reviews and updates these lists regularly to reflect:

• Industry skill shortages
• Economic needs
• Labour supply and demand
• Impact of automation or migration

In 2025, a major review took place, resulting in new occupations added and removed from both lists.

Key updates:

• More roles in green energy and AI added to the Critical Skills list
• Certain hospitality roles moved to the Ineligible list due to a rise in domestic workers
• Expanded demand for healthcare assistants and social workers due to demographic changes

Government review page – Occupations List Updates

New Occupations Added to the Critical Skills List

Following the 2025 update, here are some newly added occupations that now qualify for the Critical Skills Employment Permit:

This change reflects Ireland’s green transition, digital economy, and ageing population. If you’re skilled in these fields, your chances of getting a work permit are stronger than ever.

 Read more about Ireland’s Green Skills needs

Ineligible Occupations Still Closed to Foreign Workers

Despite growing demands in some sectors, certain low-wage or entry-level roles remain ineligible. These include:

• Sales assistants
• Bar staff
• Home care workers (without qualifications)
• Factory packers
• Taxi drivers

Employers must demonstrate a genuine shortage before exceptions are granted—which is rare.

 How to apply for a Labour Market Needs Test

How to Check If Your Job Is Eligible

Wondering if your job qualifies for a work permit? Follow these steps:

1. Go to the Critical Skills List
Official link

2. Search for your job title or code
Use CTRL+F and type your profession (e.g. “Civil Engineer”)

3. Check qualifications needed
Some roles require specific degrees or experience levels

4. Double-check salary thresholds
As of 2025, the minimum salary is:

• €38,000/year for most Critical Skills roles
• €64,000/year for General Employment Permits

5. Contact DETE for clarification if your role is not clearly listed

Contact Ireland’s Employment Permits Section

Applying for an Ireland Work Permit: Step-by-Step

Here’s a quick breakdown of the permit application process if your role is on the eligible list:

Step 1: Find a Job Offer

You must have a confirmed job offer from an Irish employer.

Step 2: Choose the Right Permit Type

• Critical Skills Employment Permit if on CSOL
• General Employment Permit if not on CSOL but not on the Ineligible List

Step 3: Gather Documents

• Valid passport
• Employment contract
• Qualifications and CV
• Employer’s registration details

Step 4: Apply Online

Use the Employment Permits Online System (EPOS) to apply:
Apply for a Work Permit – EPOS

Step 5: Wait for Approval

It usually takes 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the workload.

 Application processing times

Healthcare and IT: Two Booming Sectors in Ireland

According to the latest data from the Irish government, the healthcare and technology sectors are still leading in terms of work permit approvals.

• Healthcare: Nurses, midwives, radiographers, social care workers, and general practitioners are still in huge demand.
• Tech: Software developers, DevOps engineers, cloud architects, and cybersecurity professionals continue to dominate the Critical Skills List.

Ireland’s tech-friendly environment and strong public health infrastructure are two major reasons behind this trend.

 HSE Jobs – Ireland Health Sector

Ireland Work Permit Trends 2023–2025

Here’s what recent statistics reveal:

• In 2023: 26,000 work permits were issued
• In 2024: Over 30,000 issued, mostly in tech and health
• 2025 (projected): 35,000+ due to green energy and AI sector growth

Government strategy supports filling gaps via skilled immigration.

 Employment Permit Statistics – DETE

Expert Advice: Tips for Applicants

• Start Early: It takes time to collect documents, find an employer, and submit the application.
• Check Salary Thresholds: They change annually.
• Keep Your Qualifications Ready: You might need NARIC Ireland recognition for your degree.
• Don’t Fall for Scams: Only use trusted platforms and verify employers.

Recognise foreign qualifications – NARIC Ireland

Final Thoughts: about Ireland work permit occupations lists review

Absolutely. If your occupation is on the Critical Skills list and you meet the qualifications, Ireland offers a fast-track path to residency, strong wages, and an excellent quality of life.

From the welcoming people to career growth opportunities, Ireland remains one of the best places in Europe for skilled foreign workers. Just make sure you follow the official guidance and double-check your eligibility before applying.

Summary: Ireland Work Permit Occupations Lists Review

 Learn more – Work in Ireland (GOV.ie)

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• Government Opens Consultation on Employment Permit Ireland Occupations Lists
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