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  • Deferral of Minimum Annual Remuneration (MAR) Increases for Employment Permits 2025

    Our previous blog (click here to read) explored the sweeping changes to Ireland’s Employment Permit system introduced in 2024. From expanded eligible occupations to adjustments in salary thresholds, these updates have created both opportunities and challenges for employers and employees alike. As we look to 2025, it’s clear that staying informed about forthcoming changes is more important than ever. There’s an important update regarding the Minimum Annual Remuneration (MAR) for employment permits. While further increases were initially planned for January 2025 as part of a multi-year roadmap, these have been deferred pending a comprehensive review by the Department of Enterprise, Trade, and Employment (DETE). Deferral of Minimum Annual Remuneration (MAR) Increases for Employment Permits 2025 A Quick Recap of the MAR and Its Roadmap The MAR is the baseline annual salary required to issue an employment permit in Ireland. Recognising that the MAR had not kept pace with rising average earnings over the years, the Department introduced a roadmap in early 2024 to gradually increase these thresholds to 2026. The January 2024 increase marked a significant step towards addressing historical disparities, aligning the MAR more closely with the economic realities of modern Ireland. However, the landscape has shifted considerably since the roadmap was laid out. Rising operational costs for businesses and economic uncertainties have prompted a review to ensure that future adjustments are introduced to support stability and growth. The Deferral and Its Implications The January 2025 MAR increases will be postponed to allow for the completion of this review. This will give employers time to adjust their business strategies based on the forthcoming recommendations. This pause reflects the Department's awareness of the challenges businesses face and its commitment to ensuring that the MAR roadmap remains sustainable for all stakeholders. Exception for the Health Care Sector It’s worth noting that the increase to €30,000 for Health Care Assistants, Home Carers, and Care Workers will proceed as planned in January 2025. This adjustment had already been deferred and communicated extensively to the sector over the past year. As such, it falls outside the scope of the current review and underscores the government’s recognition of the critical role played by healthcare professionals. Looking Ahead This review represents an opportunity to create a framework for MAR increases that balances the need for fair remuneration with economic resilience. Employers and permit holders must stay informed and incorporate the upcoming findings into their long-term planning. Stay tuned for further updates on this matter. Future Direct will publish a more detailed blog soon! 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.

  • Employment Permit Rule Updates and Salary Thresholds in 2025: What Employers and Employees Need to Know

    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.

  • Essential Travel Information for Non-EEA Nationals With an Expired IRP During Christmas 2024

    The holiday season is a time for connection and celebration, but for non-EEA nationals in Ireland, the ongoing backlog in immigration processing has introduced an added layer of complexity. With delays in issuing Irish Residence Permit (IRP) cards, the Department of Justice has announced a Travel Confirmation Notice  to help those needing to travel internationally during Christmas. Here’s what you need to know to navigate these temporary arrangements smoothly. Updates for Non-EEA Nationals Processing Delays Immigration services are currently experiencing delays across several locations. After registration completion, IRP cards can take up to two weeks to arrive via post. Travel Confirmation Notice (Downloadable here ) To facilitate travel during this period, a Travel Confirmation Notice is in effect from 2 December 2024 to 31 January 2025 . This allows Non-EEA nationals to travel using their recently expired IRP card if: They submitted their renewal application before the card’s expiry date. They carry proof of the renewal application (e.g., email confirmation). Documentation for Travel Travellers should ensure they have the following: A printed copy of the Travel Confirmation Notice . Their recently expired IRP card. Proof of their renewal application, such as an email confirmation showing the application date. Notification to Airlines and Authorities The Department has informed airlines and foreign missions about these temporary measures. However, if your journey involves transiting through a third country, ensure you meet that jurisdiction’s immigration and visa requirements. Practical Tips for Travelers Download and Print the Travel Confirmation Notice Keep a physical copy of this notice to present to immigration authorities or airlines as needed. Verify Third-Country Travel Requirements If your trip involves transit through another country, research and comply with their visa or immigration rules to avoid complications. Allow Extra Time for Travel As this is a temporary measure, anticipate the possibility of additional checks or delays when presenting your documents. Stay Informed Regularly check the official immigration website or contact the Department for updates on processing times or travel-related announcements. Looking Ahead The Department continues to process IRP renewals and is working to address the backlog. These temporary measures aim to minimise disruption for non-EEA nationals needing to travel during the festive period, balancing the challenges of processing delays with practical solutions for travellers. Need Assistance with Your Immigration Process? Not sure how to handle your renewal application or worried about travelling with the temporary measures? 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. Whether you need assistance with: Renewing your IRP during the current delays, Changing your stamp category , Understanding the Travel Confirmation Notice or Navigating complex immigration requirements, Our dedicated team is ready to assist you every step of the way. 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 temporary measures and the broader immigration process with confidence and ease. Safe travels, and we look forward to assisting you!

  • Say Goodbye to In-Person Renewals: All IRP Renewals Now Online from November 2024!

    Background / What’s New? Beginning 4 November 2024 , the process for renewing Irish Residence Permits (IRPs) and changing stamp categories is shifting entirely to an online system. The Irish Immigration Service Online Portal will handle all renewal applications nationwide, eliminating the need for in-person visits to the Burgh Quay Registration Office in most cases. With this change, the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) will no longer manage IRP renewals, although they will continue to handle first-time registrations for those residing outside of Cork, Dublin, Kildare, Meath, Limerick, and Wicklow. Below are a few information that will be useful after the changes: Renewals and Changes of Stamp Category From now on, if you need to renew your IRP or change your stamp category , you must apply through the Irish Immigration Service Online Portal. Applications are accepted up to 12 weeks before your current IRP card expires, allowing ample time for processing. Key points to remember: Online-only service : Unlike first-time registrations, IRP renewals do not require an in-person visit. Convenience : You can apply from anywhere in Ireland as long as you have an internet connection and the required documents ready. Preparing for Your Online Renewal To streamline your application process, ensure you’re prepared with the following steps before starting your online renewal: Set up an online account : Register on the Irish Immigration Service Online Portal. Gather required documents : Check which documents are needed for your renewal and have digital copies ready. These can be clear scans or photos. Prepare to pay the registration fee : If applicable, the fee is €300, payable by credit or debit card. Once your application is submitted, you’ll receive an automatic confirmation email with your application number and payment receipt details. What Happens After Submission? Applications are processed in the order they are received. The Irish Immigration Service website provides live updates on the current processing dates. After submission, one of the following outcomes will occur: Successful Application : You’ll receive an email confirming your IRP card is on its way, and it should arrive within 15 business days. Further Documentation Required : If more information is needed, you’ll be contacted with details on how to submit additional documents. Unsuccessful Application : An email will outline the reasons for the unsuccessful application, and any fees paid will be refunded within ten business days. IRP Card Delivery to Your Home Address The delivery of IRP cards is now handled directly by ISD, with cards sent straight to your home address by An Post Express Post. It’s crucial to provide a full, accurate address, including the Eircode. If you reside in an apartment block, include your apartment number. If your card has not arrived within 15 days , contact the customer service helpdesk for assistance. ISD will investigate the delay and, if necessary, issue a replacement. With the move to online renewals and direct-to-home card deliveries, the Irish Immigration Service aims to make the process more efficient and user-friendly for all IRP holders. Not too sure how to do it? Or are you wondering what specific documents are needed? We’re here to help. Future Direct  is one of Ireland’s leading immigration consultancy firms, providing expert guidance and support for all your immigration needs. Whether you're renewing your IRP, changing your stamp category, or have questions about the process, our team is ready to assist you every step of the way. Contact us today at +353 872400433  or email us at info@futuredirect.ie . Let us help you navigate the immigration process with confidence and ease.

  • Growth in Economy and Labour Market in Ireland: Q2 2024 Labour Force Survey

    The latest data from the Q2 2024 Labour Force Survey and the Monthly Unemployment Release reveal promising trends in Ireland’s labour market. Employment figures show robust growth, reflecting government policies' effectiveness in economic recovery and job creation. As of the second quarter of 2024, 70,800 jobs were created over the previous year, bringing total employment to a new high of 2.74 million. This represents an impressive 2.6% increase compared to Q2 2023. Regional and Full-Time Employment Gains Lead the Way A significant portion of this employment growth has been driven by regions outside of Dublin, where 43,600 jobs were added over the year, marking a 2.3% increase. This regional growth aligns with the government’s strategy to achieve more balanced economic development across the country. Employment in the capital remains strong, but creating opportunities outside Dublin underscores a strategic shift towards regional economic empowerment. Full-time employment saw a substantial increase, with 62,300 jobs added year-on-year in the second quarter, a 3.0% rise. Part-time employment also grew, though slower, with an increase of 6,900 jobs, or 1.2%. These figures suggest a solid demand for full-time positions, indicating that businesses want to strengthen their workforce with more permanent roles, which bodes well for long-term economic stability. Unemployment Trends: A Slight Uptick but Still Low The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in July 2024 was recorded at 4.7%, slightly up from 4.5% in June 2024 and from 4.5% in July 2023. Despite this modest increase, the unemployment rate remains low by historical standards, highlighting the overall resilience of the Irish labour market. Minister for Enterprise, Trade, and Employment Peter Burke commented on these figures, emphasising the government’s commitment to balanced regional development and highlighting the historic highs in female labour market participation. “The Irish labour market remains exceptionally resilient,” Burke said, “with more than half of the jobs created in the past year located outside of Dublin, showcasing the government’s commitment to balanced regional enterprise development.” Macroeconomic Outlook: Balancing Growth with Stability Finance Minister Jack Chambers highlighted the labour market's strong performance as a key indicator of economic health. With employment reaching a record high of 2.75 million in the second quarter, Ireland now employs nearly three-quarters of its working-age population. This record level of employment is consistent with strong income tax growth, suggesting a healthy increase in disposable incomes and consumer spending power. Chambers also noted the slight increase in the unemployment rate, which may indicate a balancing of labour market conditions. “The modest uptick in the unemployment rate suggests some easing of the tight conditions that characterised the labour market last year,” he said. As labour demand moderates and supply remains robust, early signs suggest the labour market may be stabilising. Looking Ahead: Sustaining Momentum in Job Creation Maintaining this momentum will be crucial as the country moves forward. The forthcoming macroeconomic projections, published in October as part of Budget 2025, will offer further insights into how Ireland plans to sustain and build upon this success. Ireland's continued growth and resilience in the labour market presents significant opportunities for individuals and businesses. Whether you're considering relocating to Ireland for work, expanding your business, or navigating the complexities of the immigration process, now is an excellent time to take advantage of the thriving job market. Future Direct  is one of Ireland’s leading immigration consultancy firms, offering expert guidance and support to corporate and individual clients. If you have questions about employment permits or entry visa applications or need assistance with any aspect of the immigration process, we're here to help. Call us today at +353 872400433  or email us at info@futuredirect.ie . Our team is ready to provide the answers and support you need to take the next step toward a bright future in Ireland.

  • Empowering Employment Permit Holders: The latest Employment Permit Act 2024

    Exciting developments are on the horizon for employment permit holders in Ireland! The latest Employment Permits Act 2024 introduces key changes that enhance flexibility and career progression opportunities for permit holders. These changes are designed to improve job mobility, protect workers from exploitation, and enable them to advance their careers more easily. 1. Change of Employer – GEP and CSEP Holders The 2024 Act introduces a significant provision allowing certain employment permit holders to change their employer after just  nine  months, compared to the twelve-month requirement. This flexibility is available for holders of the General Employment Permit (GEP) and Critical Skills Employment Permit (CSEP). General Employment Permit (GEP) Holders : After nine months, GEP holders can switch to another employer within the same type of employment, as specified by the 4-digit SOC code on their original permit. For example, a meat processing operative can move to another role within the meat processing industry. Critical Skills Employment Permit (CSEP) Holders : CSEP holders benefit from greater flexibility and can transition to different employers across a broader range of occupations, identified by the 3-digit SOC code. For example, an engineer can shift to a new engineering role, which must also be on the Critical Skills Occupations List. This provision eliminates the need for permit holders to apply for a new permit when changing employers, provided the movement is within the same occupation or occupation classification. The permit must be in force and remain valid for at least two months when applying for the change, ensuring continuity and stability for both employers and employees. Key Conditions for Changing Employers: Application Limit : Permit holders can apply to change employers a maximum of three times. Employment Contract : A new contract of employment, signed by both the new employer and employee, must be submitted with the application. Commencement of New Employment : The employee must begin work with the new employer within one month of issuing the new permit. It's important to note that the new employment cannot commence until the new permit is reissued. Labour Market Needs Test (LMNT) Exemption Unlike applications for new permits, there is no requirement to conduct a Labour Market Needs Test before a permit holder applies to change their employer. This exemption streamlines the process, allowing permit holders to transition to similar roles without unnecessary delays, as the occupation has already been tested in the domestic and EEA labour market. 2. Career Progression and Internal Transfers The Act also introduces provisions to improve permit holders' career progression and job stability. Permit holders who receive a promotion or transfer within the same company, where the new role utilizes the same skill set, are no longer required to apply for a new employment permit. This amendment reduces administrative burdens and helps prevent accidental non-compliance with employment permit legislation. Upon renewal, the situation will be assessed based on what would have previously required a change of employment permit. This change is designed to ease the administrative process for companies and permit holders, enabling smoother transitions within the same organization. 3. Permit Cancellation and New Employment To ensure clarity and compliance, the Act mandates that upon the grant of a new employment permit, any other existing permit for the foreign national will be cancelled . The employee must commence their new employment within six months of the permit being granted or coming into force. This provision ensures that only one valid permit is in place at any time, preventing overlap and potential legal issues. Why These Changes Matter: These provisions are part of a broader effort to create a more dynamic, flexible, and inclusive labour market in Ireland. By enabling workers to change employers and advance in their roles more easily, the Employment Permits Act 2024 improves job satisfaction and worker rights and aligns talent with the evolving needs of the economy. These reforms reinforce Ireland’s commitment to being a destination of choice for skilled workers, offering flexibility and stability. Need Help? If you have questions about your current work permit type or need assistance with the application process, we're here to help! Contact Future Direct, one of Ireland’s leading immigration consultancy firms, providing expert services to both corporate and individual clients. Call us today at +353 872400433 or email us at info@futuredirect.ie . Our team is ready to assist you with all your immigration needs and answer any questions.

  • Bringing Family to Ireland: Your Ultimate Guide to Sponsorship Requirements

    International employees and students often wish to sponsor their family members to Ireland so that they can join them while they work or study. The Irish government has specified the minimum requirements for becoming a sponsor. This blog will discuss two main requirements to become an eligible sponsor. What visa should I be on to become an eligible sponsor? You are exempt from these requirements if you are already an Irish citizen. However, if you are not an Irish citizen, you must hold one of the following residence permissions to become an eligible sponsor. Stamp 5 Stamp 4 Stamp 1 Critical Skills Employment Permit & Intra Corporate Transferees Stamp 1 General Skills Employment Permit (after working in Ireland for 12 months) Stamp 3 Minister of Religion (after living in Ireland for 12 months) Non-EEA Researcher on a Hosting Agreement How much income should I have to become an eligible sponsor: If you are one of the eligible visa holders mentioned above, congratulations! You have passed the first requirement. The next step is to ensure you have sufficient funds to sponsor your family members. As an Irish citizen , the financial requirements to sponsor your family members are as follows: For Spouse/Civil Partner, De Facto Partner, Minor Child, or Young Dependent (aged 18-23) : A combined annual income of €40,000 before tax for the past three years (approximately €13,333 per year). For Elderly Dependent Parent : For one parent: An annual income of €60,000 for the past three years after tax, plus health insurance. For two parents: An annual income of €75,000 for the past three years after tax , plus health insurance. If you are a non-EEA national , the financial requirements for sponsoring your family members are as follows: For Spouse/De Facto Partner : A minimum annual income of €30,000 before tax for the past two years. For Minor Children or Young Dependents (aged 18-23) : The required salary level varies based on the number of children you wish to sponsor: One child: €511 per week after tax Two children: €612 per week after tax Three children: €713 per week after tax Four children: €834 per week after tax Five children: €960 per week after tax Six children: €1,076 per week after tax Seven children: €1,212 per week after tax Eight children: €1,308 per week after tax For Elderly Dependent Parents: The requirements are the same as for an Irish citizen sponsor: For one parent: An annual income of €60,000 for the past three years after tax , plus health insurance. For two parents: An annual income of €75,000 for the past three years after tax, plus health insurance. Note that if you receive a disability allowance, you might be exempt from the financial requirements. Future Direct is one of the leading immigration consultancy firms in Ireland. We provide immigration services to corporate and individual clients. If you wish to bring your family members to Ireland or have any questions, call us today at +353 872400433 or email info@futuredirect.ie . We are happy to answer your questions.

  • Transfer of responsibility for IRP registration and renewal for County Cork and Limerick

    Following the change of IRP registration and renewal arrangement for residents in County Kildare, Wicklow, and Meath, County Cork and Limerick will be added to the list effective July 8, 2024. First-time Irish residence permission applicants from Cork and Limerick must attend the Burgh Quay, Dublin 2 registration office instead of going to the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB). For resident permission renewal applicants, you will no longer be required to revisit the office. You can do the IRP renewal online using the ISD online renewal portal here. We have included some crucial information regarding your registration below: An appointment with the office is required and can be booked by phone (1800 800 630) between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday to Friday. You will be asked for your email address and passport details, so get them ready before you call the office. The documents required for your IRP registration will be: Your passport Printed and completed address form attached to your appointment’s confirmation email Any other supporting documents that are relevant to your status Please note that every document you provide must be printed, or it will not be accepted, and you will need to book a return appointment to complete your application. Applicants must also pay for their registration at the office; the authorities will only accept debit or credit card payments, so remember to bring your card with you, as contactless payment is not allowed. Future Direct is one of the leading immigration consultancy firms in Ireland. We provide immigration services to corporate and individual clients. If you require us to make the IRP application or renewal on your behalf or have any questions, call us today at +353 872400433 or email info@futuredirect.ie. We are happy to answer your questions.

  • More key steps and crucial details for the Stamp 1G extension application!

    In addition to our latest post about key information for applying for a Stamp 1G extension (link here), we will share our experiences with the Stamp 1G extension application process in this blog. The topics covered include: How do I submit my application? You are required to submit a few documents to the department by post. The relevant documents are below. Please note that this list is not exhaustive and varies depending on the applicant's condition. You must provide a detailed letter of your request; any statement/reason made in this letter MUST be supported by documentary evidence. You must provide your full academic history in Ireland. You must provide evidence of your financial sources. You must present your private medical insurance. A full, valid copy of the passport is mandatory. You must also provide evidence of your current address. We strongly advise potential applicants to approach us to make that application rather than DIY the application because: Our experts are highly experienced in preparing a full application statement for you. If your application is rejected, you cannot appeal the decision. Given that the application process takes 4 to 6 months, you will need to start the application from the beginning. How long will my extension be granted? Based on our experience, the immigration officer determines the extension duration on a case-by-case basis. Typically, a six-month extension is granted for a first-time application. If the applicant cannot secure an employment permit within these six months, they can apply for another extension, which may be granted for up to 12 months. However, the exact duration will be at the discretion of the visa officer. What is the chance of success in my application? Each application case is evaluated independently. Applicants are expected to provide comprehensive documentary evidence and genuine reasons to increase the likelihood of receiving extension approval. What happens after I have submitted my application? You will receive an acknowledgement letter in the post in the first 2-4 weeks from the immigration office confirming that your application has been received. The acknowledgement letter will also include your application reference number. Afterwards, you will need to wait patiently for approximately 5 to 6 months to obtain a letter of approval. After receiving your approval letter, you must renew your IRP online if you are based in Dublin, Wicklow, Kildare, or Meath. You must visit your local Garda station for other counties to obtain a new IRP card. Once approved, a new IRP card will be posted within 2 to 3 weeks. Therefore, it is important to plan your time and application accordingly. Finding it troublesome and challenging? Contact Future Direct now and talk to our experienced immigration consultants; we can help you plan a sufficient time and make an application on your behalf. Call us at +353 871734289 or email info@futuredirect.ie. We are happy to answer your questions and help you with this matter.

  • Exploring Ireland's Population Shift: The Impact of Immigration on Demographic Changes

    Fine Gael's new leader, Simon Harris, highlighted that Ireland is a nation shaped by immigration. However, what do the latest statistics reveal about Ireland's population and the number of immigrants residing here? In 20 years' time, Ireland’s total population had increased from 3.9 million people to 5.3 million. Indicating a 1.3 million increase in the total population. Among that population, approximately 45% are formed by net migration (People entering and leaving Ireland), and around 55% are formed by natural increase (Annual births and deaths) Ever since the total population in Ireland hit 5 million, the population has been increasing rapidly in recent years. Based on the population changes in the past five years,  only 2021 is below the average population increase, mainly due to the pandemic and lockdown of Covid 19. Among the five years from 2019 to 2023, other than 2021, the increase in population is all due to the number of immigrants around the globe, whereas the country's natural birth and death rate remains constant and stable. In 2023, the number of immigrants holds 80% of the total increased population in Ireland, which marks the highest percentage in Ireland’s history for the past 20 years, exceeding the rate of 73% in 2007. In addition, a higher average number of employment permits were issued in the first three months of 2024 (3.3k) than the average number of 2.4k per month in 2023. We can confidently conclude that the number of immigrants will continue to increase in the upcoming years, provided that the Irish government announces no exceptional events or policies. However, the impact of the decision regarding raising the minimum threshold to apply for an employment permit in 2025 remains uncertain. Future Direct is one of the leading immigration consultancy firms that provide immigration services to corporate and individual clients in Ireland. Should you face any difficulties or rejections in applying for your employment or residence permit in Ireland, call us today at +353 872400433 or email info@futuredirect.ie. We are happy to answer your questions and help you in this matter.

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