Ireland is continually becoming an attractive destination for OFWs for a lot of reasons. This includes competitive salaries, excellent working conditions, and clear chances of getting permanent residency in the country. In fact, there are many industries that demand Filipino skilled workers from areas such as healthcare, ICT and engineering.
If you are an OFW considering Ireland as your next destination, then this guide can help you understand the application process and the key details to help you succeed.
How OFWs Can Apply for Skilled Jobs in Ireland
Before diving into the application process, it is important to understand why skilled workers like working in Ireland:
- High Salaries – compared to many other countries, Ireland’s wages are competitive.
- Pathways to Residency – There are clear and structured paths toward long-term residency and even citizenship.
- Family-Friendly Policies – Holders of the Critical Skills Employment Permit can bring their families with fewer restrictions.
- Growing Filipino Community – There are established Filipino communities in cities like Dublin, Cork, and Limerick, making the transition easier for new workers.
Types of Work Permits in Ireland
There are several work permits available for non-European Economic Area (EEA) nationals. The following are the two most common ones for skilled workers:
1. General Employment Permit
- Eligibility: Open to workers in sectors not listed under the Ineligible Categories of Employment.
- Salary Requirement: Minimum of €30,000 per year.
- Job Contract: Requires a job offer with at least a 2-year contract.
- Residency Pathway: After 5 years of continuous employment, you may apply for long-term residency.
- Common Jobs Under This Permit:
- Care Assistants and Home Care Workers
- Hospitality Supervisors
- Bakers and Pastry Chefs
- Butchers
- Meat Processing Operatives
- Construction Laborers
- Farm Workers
- Cleaners
- Sales Representatives
- Warehouse Operatives
2. Critical Skills Employment Permit
- Eligibility: Reserved for highly skilled workers in critical demand sectors.
- Salary Requirement:
- €32,000 per year for listed critical skills jobs.
- €64,000 per year for other qualifying positions.
- Job Contract: Requires a job offer with at least a 2-year contract.
- Residency Pathway: Faster and easier process toward permanent residency.
- Family Reunification: Immediate family sponsorship; spouses can work without an additional permit.
- Common Jobs Under This Permit:
- Software Developers
- Civil Engineers
- Electrical Engineers
- Mechanical Engineers
- Medical Practitioners (Doctors)
- Nurses
- ICT Specialists (e.g., Data Analysts, Cybersecurity Experts)
- Pharmaceutical Professionals
- Architects
- Science Professionals (e.g., Biochemists, Physicists)
Steps to Apply as a Skilled Worker in Ireland
Step 1: Identify Eligible Jobs and Employers
Before applying for a visa, you need to find an employer willing to sponsor you. You can access the following websites for job listings for non-EEA nationals:
- Irish Jobs
- Indeed Ireland
- LinkedIn Jobs
- Jobs Ireland
Step 2: Secure a Job Offer
Once you find a suitable job, submit your resume and cover letter. Prepare for interviews, as Irish employers may conduct multiple interview rounds, often via video calls. If selected, the employer will provide a job contract, which is required for your work permit application.
Step 3: Apply for a Work Permit
The next step you should do is submit an online application to the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment of Ireland through their website.
You must repare the necessary documents, such as:
- Job offer letter from an Irish employer
- Valid passport
- Proof of qualifications (e.g., diplomas, certifications)
- Evidence of previous work experience
- Proof of salary meeting the minimum requirement
Next, pay the application fee (€1,000 for most work permits). If rejected, 90% of the fee is refundable.
Step 4: Apply for a Work Visa
Once your work permit is approved, apply for an Irish work visa through the nearest Irish embassy or consulate. Required documents usually include:
- Valid work permit
- Passport
- Visa application form
- Proof of accommodation in Ireland
- Financial statements showing you can support yourself before your first salary
Step 5: Travel to Ireland and Start Working
Once your visa is approved, you can now book your flight to Ireland. Then, upon arriving, register with the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) so that you can receive your Irish Residence Permit (IRP).
Challenges and Considerations
While Ireland offers many benefits to skilled workers, there are challenges to consider:
- Tech Industry Slowdown – For web developers and ICT professionals, recent layoffs in the tech sector may make job hunting more difficult.
- Housing and Cost of Living – Ireland is currently facing a housing crisis, and rent prices are high, especially in major cities.
- Application Timeline – Finding an employer willing to sponsor can take several months. Some applicants report waiting up to 8 months before securing a job offer.
Alternative Work Permits
Aside from the permits mentioned above, there are other specialized permits you can consider applying for. These include the following:
- Intra-Company Transfer Permit – For multinational companies transferring employees to their Irish branch.
- Sport and Cultural Employment Permit – For professionals in sports and entertainment.
- Exchange Agreement Employment Permit – For workers under international exchange agreements.
- Internship Employment Permit – For students gaining experience in a critical skills field.
- Reactivation Employment Permit – For workers who lost their job through no fault of their own.
Indeed, Ireland provides great opportunities for skilled workers from the Philippines to build a successful career abroad. As mentioned in the article, there are different types of employment permits that you can apply to. You just need to prepare the necessary documents and diligently apply for the jobs you want. Doing these, your chances of getting a job and a work visa for Ireland increases. It won’t be that easy, but the potential for a high salary, career growth, and residency opportunities make Ireland a worthwhile option for skilled OFWs.