Welcome to our community, now over 1,000 subscribers strong. This week, we’re diving into the significant updates to Ireland’s employment permit regulations, sparking a range of reactions.
The recent expansion of the employment permit list has brought mixed feelings. For some, it’s a step forward, while for others, it presents challenges. Notably, the salary adjustments that came with these updates have stirred varied responses from employers, ranging from indifference to concern.
Let’s take a closer look from both sides. Workers in traditionally lower-paid roles, such as healthcare assistants, home carers, horticulture workers, and meat processors, rightfully welcome the increase in their salaries from €22,000 to a standard €30,000. Additionally, the general employment permit now requires a minimum salary of €34,000, and critical skills employment permits have seen an increase from €32,000 to €38,000.
Employees naturally celebrate wage increases. With the recent financial updates, reducing the waiting time for family reunification for general employment permit holders, currently at 12 months, is likely the next issue up for review.
Large corporations will likely brush off these changes, but what about smaller businesses, like your local family-owned restaurant? These updates hit them hard, especially those already struggling with VAT rates. Conversations with small business owners, like a well-known restaurant owner, reveal the tough realities of budget constraints. The new salary standards complicate hiring, disrupting the balance between different roles within businesses.
Seeing both sides of this issue is crucial. Rising living costs demand more than just a basic income for individuals to thrive. At the same time, businesses face increasing operational costs, making profitability a challenge without a boost in revenue.
Irish employers must adapt to these new regulations immediately, unlike their UK counterparts, who have until April. This has sparked contention among Irish firms.
With more salary revisions expected in 2025 and 2026, we’ll keep a close eye on this evolving situation. Stay tuned for the latest updates on immigration and employment permit news.
For businesses seeking guidance on immigration, employment permits, and compliance, contact [email protected] for expert advice.
