Policy hub

Ireland Introduces New Employment Permits and Reviews '50:50 Rule' to Address Skills Shortages

A new phased approach to increasing Minimum Annual Remuneration (MAR) salary thresholds for employment permits has been published, introducing gradual increases through to 2030. From 1 March 2026, the minimum salary for General Employment Permits will rise to €36,605, for Critical Skills Employment Permits to €40,904, and for meat processors, horticultural workers, healthcare assistants, and home carers to €32,691. Sub-standard MAR thresholds for sectors like healthcare and agri-food will be phased out by 2030. Lower starting thresholds will apply for recent graduates. Critical skills roles in the public service and community/voluntary organisations linked to public sector pay agreements will be exempt from CSEP MAR thresholds.

Jurisdiction

Ireland

Category

Work & skilled workers

Recorded versions

2

Official source

enterprise.gov.ie