The Irish Employment Permit system has seen significant changes over the past year, most notably the largest-ever expansion of eligible occupations introduced in January 2024. This change, announced by the Department of Enterprise, Trade, and Employment (DETE), has been widely welcomed by industries facing severe skills shortages. However, these updates have also brought challenges alongside the positive reception—particularly for employers and employees navigating the evolving salary thresholds.
A Recap of 2024 Changes: New Opportunities and Challenges
The expansion of eligible occupations in 2024 has opened new pathways for professionals across sectors, enabling businesses to address critical workforce gaps. Yet, increasing the minimum salary threshold for employment permits from €30,000 to €34,000 has created obstacles for some employees renewing their permits.
Many employers were unprepared for this adjustment, leaving some workers in precarious situations. Future Direct has stepped in with a practical solution for affected individuals: assisting employees in transitioning to Stamp 1 permission, which allows them to continue their employment without an employment permit. While this is a valuable workaround, it disrupts visa stability and adds to the administrative burden for employees and employers.
Looking Ahead to 2025: Potential New Salary Thresholds
As we approach 2025, there is growing concern about further adjustments to salary thresholds. Employers and employees are bracing for potential changes that could impact recruitment plans, work permit renewals, and visa stability.
In 2024, changes were announced on 20 December 2023 and became effective from the 17th of January 2024, leaving employers and employees with minimal time to react. A similar timeline is expected this year, underscoring the importance of staying informed and prepared.
Indicative Salary Threshold for Employment Permit in 2025: What We Know So Far
As of now, this is the available information for employment permit salary thresholds in the year 2025:
Meat Processing Operatives:
Increase from €30,000 to €32,000 on January 25, 2024.
Further increase to €34,000 on July 25, 2024.
Expected to rise to €39,000 in January 2026.
Healthcare Assistants/Home Carers:
Initially expected to rise to €30,000 in January 2024, the DETE has decided to maintain the threshold at €27,000.
We are still awaiting updates from the DETE regarding any changes planned for January 2025.
General Employment Permit Holders:
The current threshold of €34,000 is expected to increase to €39,000.
Critical Skills Employment Permit:
The current threshold of €38,000 is set to increase to €44,000.
The threshold for holders without a relevant degree remains unchanged at €64,000.
Intra-Company Transfers:
Trainees: The threshold will rise from €34,000 to €39,000.
Services Contracts: The threshold will increase from €46,000 to €53,000.
Future Direct: Your Partner in Navigating Employment Permit Challenges
At Future Direct, we understand how unsettling these changes can be. As experts in Irish employment permit and visa procedures, we are committed to staying at the forefront of regulatory updates to provide the best possible guidance to our clients.
Whether you’re an employer concerned about retaining key talent or an employee facing uncertainty due to salary thresholds, we’re here to help. Our team tailors solutions to individual circumstances, ensuring employers and employees can navigate challenges effectively. From exploring alternative visa options like Stamp 1 permissions to strategizing permit renewals, we’re dedicated to supporting our clients every step of the way.
Stay Informed with Future Direct
We’ll continue to monitor updates from DETE and provide timely insights once the 2025 salary thresholds are announced. Keep an eye on our blog and social media channels for the latest developments and expert advice.
Not sure how to handle your permit renewal or concerned about navigating the changing salary thresholds? Don’t stress—we’re here to help. Future Direct is one of Ireland’s leading immigration consultancy firms, offering expert guidance and personalised support to ensure a hassle-free experience.
Contact us today at +353 (01) 513 4085 or email info@futuredirect.ie for professional advice tailored to your needs. Let us help you navigate these changes and the broader immigration process with confidence and ease.