The General Employment Permit (GEP) in Ireland has undergone significant updates as of 2024, particularly with the introduction of the Employment Permits Act 2024, which came into effect on September 2, 2024. Here are the key changes:

Eligibility Criteria

1. Job Offer Requirement: To apply for a GEP, applicants must have a job offer that meets specific criteria:
   • The job must pay at least €34,000 per year (as of January 17, 2024).
   • The position must not be on the Ineligible List of Occupations for Employment Permits.
   • A Labour Market Needs Test (LMNT) must be conducted by the employer to demonstrate that they attempted to fill the position with an Irish or EEA citizen.
2. 50:50 Rule: Employers cannot receive a GEP if more than 50% of their workforce is from outside the EEA at the time of application. However, there are exceptions for new companies and certain other conditions.

Labour Market Needs Test (LMNT)

• The LMNT process has been modernized:
  • Employers are no longer required to advertise vacancies in print media; they can now use online platforms.
  • Job advertisements must be posted for at least 28 days on both the Jobs Ireland website and one additional online platform accessible to Irish/EEA citizens.

Change of Employer Rules

• GEP holders can change employers after completing nine months with their current employer (previously twelve months). This allows for greater flexibility and mobility within the labor market.
• There is no need to conduct a new LMNT when changing employers under this provision.

Minimum Salary Adjustments

• The minimum salary threshold will be indexed annually based on Ireland’s average weekly wage. As of January 17, 2024, it is set at €34,000 per year but may change in subsequent years.

Automatic Permit Cancellation

• When a new employment permit is issued, any existing permits will be automatically canceled. This streamlines administrative processes and reduces confusion regarding multiple permits.

Seasonal Employment Permit Introduction

• A new Seasonal Employment Permit (SEP) will allow non-EEA nationals to work in seasonally recurrent jobs for up to seven months per calendar year, specifically targeting sectors like horticulture and food production. This permit is expected to launch through a pilot scheme in early 2025.

Family Reunification Rights

• Holders of a GEP can bring their family members to live with them in Ireland after one year of employment. Family members from visa-required countries must apply for separate visas.