7 Steps to Immigrate to Ireland With Family to Start Working in 2026 after New Policy Implementation

If you’re dreaming of building a new life in Ireland — one of Europe’s most dynamic, safe, and opportunity-filled countries — now might be your best shot. Thanks to the new policies rolled out in 2025, Ireland has made it easier for skilled workers from around the world to immigrate, find work, and even bring their families along for the journey.

Whether you’re a healthcare worker, an engineer, a tech expert, or simply eager to start a better life, this guide breaks it all down for you step by step.

What’s New for 2026 Applicants? (Policy Highlights)

• New Digital Application Portal: A cloud-based Employment Permits system simplifies and speeds up work visa processing.
• Faster Job Change Rules: You can now switch to a new employer after 9 months (previously 12 – Ref).
• Updated Salary Thresholds: Certain roles (e.g. healthcare assistants) have new minimum salary requirements (Ref).
• More Family-Friendly: Spouses and children of permit holders have clearer, faster routes to join and work.
• Streamlined Critical Skills List: Ireland revised its in-demand occupation lists, focusing more on health, construction, IT, and green jobs – New List https://enterprise.gov.ie/en/what-we-do/workplace-and-skills/employment-permits/employment-permit-eligibility/highly-skilled-eligible-occupations-list/.

Step 1: Find a Job in Ireland

Why start with a job? Because most work visas in Ireland are employer-sponsored — your application begins with a genuine job offer.

Where to Find Jobs:

• • JobsIreland.ie – Ireland’s official job portal.
  • IrishJobs.ie – One of the largest recruitment sites.
  • EURES – European-wide platform with Irish employer listings.
  • LinkedIn & Indeed Ireland – Filter by visa-sponsoring employers.
  • Specialist Recruiters – For roles in nursing, tech, or skilled trades.

Tip: Focus on industries like:

• • Healthcare (nurses, care workers, medical technicians)
  • Engineering & IT (software, mechanical, civil)
  • Hospitality & Food Services
  • Construction & Skilled Trades
  • Financial Services.

Step 2: Apply for the Right Type of Irish Work Visa

Once you’ve landed a job offer, it’s time to apply for your work permit. Ireland currently offers two primary categories:

1# Critical Skills Employment Permit

Perfect for:

• • Roles with a national skills shortage (engineers, doctors, ICT experts, etc.)
  • Jobs that pay €38,000+ (graduates) or €64,000+ (others)

Perks:

• • Fast-track to permanent residency (Stamp 4 after 2 years)
  • Spouse can work full-time without needing their own work permit.

Apply: https://enterprise.gov.ie/en/what-we-do/workplace-and-skills/employment-permits/permit-types/critical-skills-employment-permit/.

2# General Employment Permit

Suitable for:

• • Jobs not on the critical skills list
  • Minimum salary: €30,000–€39,000 depending on the role.

Note: This type usually requires your employer to pass a Labour Market Needs Test — showing no local or EU worker is available for the job.

Apply: https://enterprise.gov.ie/en/what-we-do/workplace-and-skills/employment-permits/permit-types/general-employment-permit/.

Step 3: Submit Your Employment Permit Application

Process Overview:

1. 1. Employer applies through Ireland’s Employment Permits Online System (EPOS).
   2. You may be required to submit supporting documents (passport, contract, academic credentials).
   3. Once approved, you’ll receive a permit letter to move on to the visa stage.

Processing Time: 4–8 weeks for most permits.

Step 4: Apply for an Irish Work Visa (Long Stay D Visa)

Once your permit is approved, apply for your visa to enter Ireland.

Requirements:

• • Work permit approval letter
  • Passport (valid 12+ months)
  • Employment contract
  • Recent photos (passport-size)
  • Proof of accommodation
  • Proof of funds or salary statement

Application Method: Online through the AVATS portal https://www.visas.inis.gov.ie/avats/.

Fee: €60–€100 depending on single or multiple entry.

Step 5: Bring Your Family Along

Ireland is family-friendly, and 2025 policies have strengthened this even more.

Spouse & Children Can:

• • Apply under Join Family visa category (Ref)
  • Apply for dependent work permit or Stamp 1G (spouses of critical skills permit holders can work without restriction)
  • Study in Irish schools (children) or pursue higher education.

Documents Needed:

• • Marriage certificate or birth certificates
  • Proof of relationship
  • Your valid work permit and income
  • Proof of Irish address or accommodation.

Step 6: Arrive in Ireland & Get Your Residence Permission

After arriving:

1. 1. Register with Irish immigration (GNIB/INIS) within 90 days.
   2. You’ll be issued a residence permit (usually Stamp 1 or Stamp 4).
   3. This card allows you to legally reside and work in Ireland and will be needed for most official tasks.

Step 7: Settle Down and Plan for Long-Term Residency

After 2 Years on a Critical Skills Permit: You become eligible for Stamp 4, which allows you to work without a permit and apply for most social benefits.

After 5 Years of Legal Residency: You can apply for Long-Term Residency or even Irish Citizenship (subject to language, conduct, and residence requirements).

✅ Summary Checklist

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