Migrate to Ireland
Europe's tech capital with a vibrant culture, English-speaking workforce, and fast-track Critical Skills permits that lead to permanent residence in just 2 years.
EU HQ for 8 of the world's top 10 tech companies
Why Ireland?
- English-speaking EU member state with full access to the European single market
- Critical Skills permit holders get Stamp 4 after 2 years — one of the fastest paths to unrestricted work in Europe
- Corporate tax rate of 15% attracts global tech, pharma, and finance HQs
- Young, educated population with a median age of 38
- Spouse/partner can work immediately without a separate permit
Key Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Population | 5.1 million |
| Official Languages | English, Irish (Gaeilge) |
| Currency | Euro (EUR) |
| Minimum Wage | EUR 13.50/hour (2025) |
| Healthcare | Public HSE system; GP visits ~EUR 55; medical card for lower incomes |
| Key Immigration Programs | Critical Skills Employment Permit, General Employment Permit, Intra-Company Transfer, Stamp 4 |
Visa Pathways
Critical Skills Employment Permit (CSEP)
Ireland's premium work permit for highly skilled occupations. Minimum salary of EUR 38,000 for roles on the Critical Skills list (IT, engineering, healthcare, finance). After 2 years, you qualify for Stamp 4 — unrestricted access to the Irish labour market.
General Employment Permit (GEP)
For occupations not on the Critical Skills list but also not on the Ineligible list. Requires a minimum salary of EUR 34,000. Valid for 2 years, renewable for 3 years, then eligible for Stamp 4 after 5 years total.
Intra-Company Transfer Permit
For employees of multinational companies transferring to an Irish branch. Requires a minimum salary of EUR 40,000 and at least 6 months with the company. Valid for up to 5 years.
Stamp 4 (Long-Term Residence)
Grants permission to work in any employment without a permit. Available after 2 years on a CSEP or 5 years on a GEP. A stepping stone to citizenship after 5 years of residence.
Cost of Living Snapshot
| Expense | Dublin | Cork / Galway |
|---|---|---|
| 1-Bed Apartment (City) | EUR 1,800–2,400/mo | EUR 1,200–1,700/mo |
| Groceries (Monthly) | EUR 300–450 | EUR 280–400 |
| Public Transport (Monthly) | EUR 120 (Leap Card) | EUR 80–100 |
| Internet (Fibre) | EUR 40–60/mo | EUR 40–55/mo |
In-Demand Jobs
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Critical Skills Employment Permit?
The Critical Skills Employment Permit (CSEP) is Ireland's flagship work permit for highly skilled workers in occupations experiencing shortages. It requires a minimum salary of EUR 38,000 for occupations on the Critical Skills list, or EUR 64,000 for roles not on the list. It is valid for 2 years and leads to immediate eligibility for Stamp 4 (unrestricted work) after that period.
Can my family join me in Ireland?
Yes. Critical Skills Employment Permit holders can bring their spouse/partner and dependent children to Ireland immediately. Your spouse will receive a Stamp 1G permission, allowing them to work in Ireland without needing their own work permit.
How long until I can apply for Irish citizenship?
You can apply for Irish citizenship through naturalisation after 5 years of reckonable residence in Ireland, with the final year being continuous residence. Time spent on a work permit counts toward this requirement.
Is Ireland a good base for tech careers?
Absolutely. Ireland is the European headquarters for Apple, Google, Meta, Microsoft, Amazon, and many other tech giants. Dublin has been called the 'Silicon Docks' and there is strong demand for software developers, data engineers, and cybersecurity professionals, with salaries among the highest in Europe.
Ready to Move to Ireland?
Let us match you with Critical Skills roles, prepare your permit application, and guide your relocation to the Emerald Isle.
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