In Summary
- Ireland is setting up an Inter-Departmental Working Group to develop a plan for implementing a single application procedure for non-EEA nationals seeking employment permits and immigration permissions.
- By eliminating certain steps in the application process for non-EEA nationals, the new single application procedure will reduce processing times.
- As a result of this process, the European Commission proposes a directive regarding a single permit process for third-country nationals wishing to obtain employment permits and immigration permissions.
The situation
In order to implement a single application procedure for employment permits and immigration permissions for non-EU nationals, Ireland is establishing an Inter-Departmental Working Group.
Taking a closer look
- Non-EEA nationals’ current application process. Non-EEA nationals who wish to work in Ireland must first apply for an employment permit with the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment. In order to travel, visa nationals must apply for a visa after the employment permit is approved. A residence card must be applied for and registered in person by all non-EEA nationals after arrival in Ireland, including spouses/partners. During the immigration process, many foreign nationals intending to work in Ireland are required to submit three separate applications to multiple government agencies.
- The new process. It is expected that the new process will eliminate the multi-stage approach. It is expected that non-EEA foreign nationals will be able to apply for work authorization, visas, and residence permission through a single application process after the Working Group publishes their report.
Impact
Upon implementation, the single application procedure is expected to reduce overall processing times and streamline the immigration application process for non-EEA nationals. Consequently, employers relocating to Ireland or hiring foreign talent will have faster start dates.
In the past
In April 2022, the European Commission proposed a recast Directive regarding a single permit procedure for employment permits and immigration permissions for third-country nationals to reside and work in an EU Member State in order to simplify immigration procedures. In response to this directive, the Irish government is developing a new single application process.
Moving Forward
An implementation plan for the new single application procedure will be proposed within six months by the newly-created Inter-Developmental Working Group. Visawebs will report on any developments.
This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Visawebs or send an email to info@visawebs.com