Ireland Restricts Employment Permits for 37 Occupations

Ireland has published a comprehensive Ineligible Occupations List (IOL) maintained by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, detailing 37 occupations for which non-EEA nationals will not be granted employment permits. This decision is based on the assessment that there is a sufficient local labor supply to fill these positions.

Occupations listed on the IOL are automatically excluded from the employment permit system. For roles not on the IOL, foreign nationals may still apply for an employment permit, although this process is not automatic and typically requires the employer to conduct a Labour Market Needs Test.

This test must demonstrate that the position cannot be filled by a suitable Irish or EEA worker. If the test is satisfied, applicants may qualify for a General Employment Permit.

Certain fields, such as healthcare specialisms and specific engineering roles, remain accessible through the permit system, provided all necessary requirements are met.