Ireland has two main employment permit types for hiring non-EEA workers: the Critical Skills Employment Permit and the General Employment Permit. They serve different purposes, have different requirements, and come with different benefits. Choosing the wrong one wastes time and can result in a refusal. This guide compares the two side by side so Irish employers can make the right choice for each hire.
The Core Comparison
When to Use CSEP
CSEP Is the Right Choice When
The role appears on the Critical Skills Occupations List
The salary is EUR 40,904 or above (or EUR 68,173+ for unlisted roles)
You want the fastest processing time
You want to avoid the LMNT advertising requirement
You are above 50% non-EEA workforce and the 50/50 rule would block a GEP
When to Use GEP
GEP Is the Right Choice When
The role is not on the Critical Skills list
The salary is between EUR 36,605 and EUR 40,904
The role is in a sector like hospitality, construction trades, or manufacturing where CSEP does not apply
You have a compliant 50/50 EEA workforce ratio
The Stamp 4 Advantage -- Why CSEP Is Worth the Higher Salary
The single biggest difference between CSEP and GEP is the pathway to Stamp 4:
Stamp 4 Comparison
CSEP: After 21 months, the worker can apply for Stamp 4. This gives them open work permission -- they can work for any employer, no longer need a permit, and are not tied to your company. This is a powerful retention and attraction tool.
GEP: The worker remains permit-dependent for 5 years (initial 2 years + 3-year renewal) before becoming eligible for Stamp 4. During this time they can only work for the sponsoring employer.
Spouse and Dependant Work Rights
Another significant CSEP advantage:
For candidates with families, CSEP is dramatically more attractive because their spouse can work immediately. This is a significant factor in candidate decision-making.
The Total Cost Comparison Over 5 Years
CSEP costs more in salary but saves on fees and processing time. More importantly, the Stamp 4 pathway after 21 months means the worker is no longer permit-dependent -- reducing your administrative burden and improving retention.
How Recruitroo Helps You Choose
Recruitroo automatically checks every role against the Critical Skills Occupations List and recommends the optimal permit route. When both routes are possible (e.g., a role on the CSOL at a salary that also clears the GEP threshold), we model both options so you can make an informed decision.
Not sure which permit route is right for your role?
Send us the job title and salary. We will confirm which route applies and model the costs and timeline for each.
Get a QuoteSee Client StoriesThis guide reflects Irish CSEP and GEP rules as of May 2026. The Critical Skills Occupations List, salary thresholds and processing times are subject to change.