New thresholds from 1 March 2026
Ireland has raised minimum salary requirements for major employment permit categories. The changes apply from 1 March 2026 and are part of a broader roadmap for adjusting minimum annual remuneration levels.
Key examples
General Employment Permit and Critical Skills Employment Permit thresholds have increased. Certain sectoral roles, including care, meat processing and horticulture, also have updated minimum requirements.
Renewals can also be affected
Salary requirements are assessed at the time of application, including renewals. Workers already in Ireland should check whether their contract remains compliant before the renewal stage.
Practical takeaway
Ireland is not changing the basic logic of employment permits, but the salary check is becoming stricter. Applicants should verify the exact permit category and annual salary before submission.
Source: Department of Enterprise, Ireland.