Ireland

Critical Skills Permit

Critical Skills Employment Permit (CSEP)

EUR 1,000

Application Fee

28–84 days

Processing Time

24 Months

Maximum Stay

Up to 1x

Extensions

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Labour Market Needs Test (LMNT)?

No. One of the primary benefits of the Critical Skills Employment Permit is that the employer does NOT need to advertise the job locally (perform an LMNT) before hiring you.

Can my spouse or family join me?

Yes, immediately. CSEP holders can bring their spouses/partners and dependent children without waiting. Crucially, your spouse can apply for a Stamp 1G, allowing them to work in Ireland without needing their own employment permit.

What happens after the 2-year permit expires?

You do not renew the CSEP. Instead, after 21 months of continuous employment, you can apply for 'Stamp 4' residency. Stamp 4 allows you to live and work in Ireland without needing any specific employment permit, giving you total freedom in the labor market.

Who pays the €1,000 application fee?

Either you or your employer can pay the fee. However, if your application is refused (for example, due to incomplete information), 90% of the fee (€900) will be refunded to the person who paid it.

View official visa source

Last verified: 14 April 2026. Not legal advice.