Ireland Work Visa 2025: Eligibility, Documents & Application Tips

If you’re thinking about working in Ireland in 2025, getting the right Ireland Work Visa is the first step. Ireland is full of career opportunities in fields like IT, healthcare, construction, and finance. I’ve seen many people get stuck just because they didn’t know the proper steps. That’s why I decided to write this simple guide — to make the whole process easy and clear.

In this blog, I’ll explain everything you need to know about the Ireland Work Visa — from eligibility to required documents and how to apply the right way. I’ve kept the language easy so anyone can understand it, even if it’s your first time applying for a visa. Let’s get started and make your dream of working in Ireland a reality!

Types of Ireland Work Visas in 2025

When I first looked into the Ireland Work Visa, I found out there are different types based on the kind of job you have. Each one has its own rules. Here are the main ones that people usually apply for in 2025:

1. Critical Skills Employment Permit

This one is for people in high-demand fields like IT, healthcare, or engineering. It’s a great option if you want to settle in Ireland long-term, because it makes getting permanent residency easier.

2. General Employment Permit

If your job isn’t on the critical skills list, this is the visa you’d apply for. You need to have a job offer, and your salary must be at least €30,000.

3. Intra-Company Transfer Permit

If you already work for a multinational company and they want to move you to their Ireland office, this is the visa you’ll need.

4. Contract for Services Employment Permit

This is for people working with a company outside Ireland but doing a contract-based job for an Irish company.

From my experience, it’s really important to pick the visa that matches your situation. Every type has different steps and documents, so choose carefully.

What is an Ireland Work Visa?

An Ireland Work Visa is a legal permit that allows people from other countries to live and work in Ireland. If you’re not from the EU or EEA, you need this visa to take up a job in Ireland.

From my side, I see it as your first step towards building a better career in Europe. Whether you’re going for IT, healthcare, construction, or even a restaurant job — this visa gives you permission to earn in euros legally.

You can apply for it after getting a job offer from an Irish employer. Once approved, you’ll receive a work permit and a visa sticker on your passport, which lets you enter and stay in the country.

A lot of people ask me, “Can I get permanent residency with it?” — and yes, depending on the type of work visa you get, you may be able to apply for permanent residency later on.

Types of Work in Ireland

When you apply for an Ireland Work Visa, it’s important to know what types of jobs are available. Ireland offers a wide range of work opportunities, and choosing the right job can improve your chances of getting the visa approved.

In my experience, here are some of the most common job types that people apply for in Ireland:

• IT and Software Jobs – Ireland is home to big tech companies like Google, Facebook, and Microsoft. If you have tech skills, this is a great option.
• Healthcare Jobs – Nurses, doctors, and healthcare assistants are always in demand.
• Construction and Engineering – Many projects are going on in Ireland, so they need workers like electricians, engineers, and laborers.
• Hospitality Jobs – Hotels, restaurants, and cafés hire international staff for roles like chefs, waiters, and cleaners.
• Agriculture and Farming – Seasonal farm jobs are also available, especially for those looking for short-term work.
• Logistics and Driving – Truck drivers, delivery workers, and warehouse staff are also needed.

I personally suggest choosing a job that matches your qualifications and work experience. It makes your Ireland Work Visa application stronger and more likely to get approved.

Documents Required Before Starting Your Ireland Work Visa Application

Before you start your Ireland Work Visa application, you must have all your documents ready. Trust me, having everything in place makes the process much easier and faster.

Here are the documents you need before starting your application:

• Valid Passport – Your passport must be valid for at least 6 to 12 months beyond your intended stay in Ireland.
• Job Offer Letter – You must have a confirmed job offer from an Irish employer.
• Employment Permit – In most cases, you’ll need an employment permit approved by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment in Ireland.
• Passport Size Photos – Clear, recent photos according to the Irish visa photo requirements.
• Proof of Qualifications – Include your degrees, diplomas, or any training certificates related to the job.
• CV/Resume – A professional resume that matches the job you’re applying for.
• Cover Letter – Explaining why you want to work in Ireland and how you’re qualified for the job.
• Police Clearance Certificate – This proves you don’t have any criminal record.
• Medical Insurance – You must show that you have valid health coverage during your stay.
• Proof of Fee Payment – Confirmation that you’ve paid the visa application fee.

From my experience, keeping a separate folder (physical or digital) with all these documents helps a lot when applying. It shows the authorities that you’re serious, well-prepared, and genuinely want to work in Ireland.

How to Apply for an Ireland Work Visa Online (Step-by-Step Guide from Pakistan – 2025)

If you’re planning to move to Ireland for work, the online visa application is the first step. Don’t worry – it’s not very complicated. I’ve broken down the whole process into simple steps so you can follow it easily, even if it’s your first time applying for a visa.

🟢 Step 1: Get a Job Offer from Ireland

You must have a job offer from a company based in Ireland. Without a job offer, you can’t apply for a work visa. The employer will also usually apply for an employment permit on your behalf.

🟢 Step 2: Receive Your Employment Permit

Once your Irish employer gets your employment permit approved from the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, they’ll send it to you. Keep this document safe – you’ll need it for your visa.

🟢 Step 3: Visit the Official Irish Immigration Website

Go to the AVATS portal to start your visa application:
👉 www.visas.inis.gov.ie

Click on “Apply for Visa” and select:

• Visa Type: Employment (Long Stay – D)
• Reason: Work Permit Holder

🟢 Step 4: Fill Out the Online Visa Form

The online form will ask you about:

• Your personal information (name, passport details, address)
• Details of your job in Ireland
• Travel plans
• Details of your employer and employment permit

👉 Double-check everything before submitting.

🟢 Step 5: Print and Sign the Application Summary

After completing the form, the system will generate a summary sheet. You must:

• Print it
• Sign it
• Attach one passport-size photo (as per Irish standards)

🟢 Step 6: Prepare Supporting Documents

Attach these documents with your application summary:

• Valid passport (original + copy)
• Job offer letter
• Employment permit
• Resume/CV
• Educational certificates
• Police clearance certificate
• Proof of financial support
• Proof of visa fee payment
• Medical or travel insurance

Organize them properly in a file.

🟢 Step 7: Pay the Visa Fee

Visa fee is usually:

• €60 for single entry
• €100 for multiple entries

You’ll need to pay at the Ireland visa application center (Gerry’s Visa Center) or follow the payment instructions given by the embassy.

🟢 Step 8: Book an Appointment with Gerry’s Visa Center

After collecting all documents, go to www.gerrysvisa.com and book an appointment to submit your documents and biometrics.

📍Gerry’s Centers are located in major cities of Pakistan like Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, etc.

🟢 Step 9: Submit Your Application

On the day of your appointment:

• Arrive on time
• Bring your complete documents and passport
• Submit biometrics (fingerprints and photo)
• Submit your application file

They will give you a tracking number.

🟢 Step 10: Wait for the Decision

Visa processing time is usually 4 to 8 weeks. You can check your status on Gerry’s tracking system or through their helpline.

Once approved, your passport will have the Ireland Work Visa stamped, and you’re ready to travel!

💡 Pro Tip

Make sure your documents are 100% correct and complete. Don’t skip anything. Ireland’s visa process is strict, but if you’re honest and well-prepared, you will get your visa. I always recommend applying at least 2 to 3 months before your planned travel date.

Ireland Work Visa Fees and Processing Time (2025 Updated)

If you are planning to apply for an Ireland Work Visa, it’s important to understand the fees and how long the process might take. In 2025, the visa fees and processing times may vary depending on the type of work visa you are applying for.

💰 Visa Application Fees

Here are the standard fees for Ireland work visas in 2025:

• Single Entry Visa: €60
• Multiple Entry Visa: €100
• Critical Skills Employment Permit: €1,000
• General Employment Permit:
  • 6 months or less: €500
  • More than 6 months: €1,000

Keep in mind that these fees are non-refundable, even if your visa is refused.

⏱️ Processing Time

The processing time depends on the type of permit and the workload at the immigration office. Here’s a general idea:

• Work Permit Decision: Usually takes 6 to 8 weeks
• Visa Stamping (after permit approval): Around 2 to 4 weeks

So overall, you should expect the complete process to take 8 to 12 weeks. It’s a good idea to apply early and make sure all your documents are correct to avoid delays.

Also, you can read our previous post about other types of visas for New Zealand.

What to Do After You Get Your Ireland Work Visa

Congratulations! 🎉 Getting your Ireland work visa approved is a big step. But your journey doesn’t end here. Now it’s time to prepare for your move and ensure a smooth transition to your new life in Ireland. Here’s what you need to do next:

1. 🛫 Book Your Flight

Once you have the visa stamped, you can book your flight to Ireland. Make sure:

• Your passport is valid for the full duration of your stay.
• You carry a printed copy of your visa and job offer letter.
• You check the baggage rules and customs restrictions before flying.

2. 🏡 Arrange Accommodation

Before landing, it’s better to sort out temporary or permanent accommodation. You can:

• Book a hotel or Airbnb for the first few weeks.
• Use websites like Daft.ie or Rent.ie to find long-term rental options.
• Ask your employer if they offer relocation assistance or a place to stay.

3. 📄 Keep All Important Documents Ready

Carry both physical and digital copies of:

• Your work visa and passport
• Job contract or employment letter
• Educational qualifications
• Travel insurance
• Any other official documents you might need

4. 🧾 Register with Immigration (If Required)

Some visa holders must register with immigration after arriving:

• Go to your local Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) office.
• Bring your passport, visa, proof of address, and job offer.
• You will get a residence permit card.

5. 🏦 Open an Irish Bank Account

You’ll need a local bank account to receive your salary. Usually, you’ll need:

• Passport
• Proof of address in Ireland
• Employment letter

Popular banks include AIB, Bank of Ireland, and Permanent TSB.

6. 📱 Get an Irish SIM Card

Buying a local SIM card helps you stay connected. Providers like Vodafone, Three, or Eir offer good prepaid and postpaid plans.

7. 🧍‍♂️ Apply for a PPS Number

The Personal Public Service (PPS) Number is essential for working legally in Ireland. You need it to:

• Get paid
• Pay taxes
• Access public services

You can apply for it online or by visiting a local Intreo Centre.

8. 🔄 Understand Your Rights as a Worker

Make sure you know:

• Your minimum wage and working hours
• Your employee rights and health benefits
• Holiday entitlements and overtime rules

Your employer should also give you a contract that outlines these details.

My Personal Experience Getting the Ireland Work Visa

When I first started my journey to work in Ireland, I had many questions in my mind — how to apply, which documents are required, how much time it would take, and whether I’d get approved or not. I did a lot of research and visited many websites, but most of them had complex information. That’s why I decided to write this blog to help others like me.

The process was smoother than I expected. I made sure all my documents were complete before starting the application. I applied online, paid the visa fee, and waited patiently. Within a few weeks, I got the good news — my Ireland Work Visa was approved! It felt amazing. Now I’m working in Ireland and enjoying the work environment and lifestyle here. If you are planning to apply, just be honest, stay organized, and follow all the steps properly. You can do it too!