Immigration
EU free movement, employment permits and a Critical Skills route
EU/EEA citizens move freely. Ireland is outside Schengen and runs its own visa system, with the Critical Skills Employment Permit fast-tracking in-demand roles toward residence.
Key rules
- The Critical Skills Employment Permit targets high-demand occupations and eases family reunification.
- A General Employment Permit covers other eligible roles subject to a labour-market test.
- Immigration permissions are recorded through the stamp system on registration.
Governing law
- Employment Permits Acts
- Immigration Act 2004
In practice
Because Ireland is outside Schengen, a Schengen visa does not admit the holder to Ireland, which frequently surprises travellers.