An employment permit refusal is frustrating and costly -- but it is not the end. Understanding why permits are refused, how to appeal, and how to build a stronger re-application is essential for any Irish employer who hires internationally. This guide covers the most common refusal reasons, the review process, and how to avoid the same outcome next time.
The Most Common Refusal Reasons
Why Permits Are Refused
1. LMNT not completed correctly. Missing one of the three ads, dates not covering 28 days, or details not matching the permit application.
2. Salary below the threshold. The offered salary does not meet the GEP (EUR 36,605) or CSEP (EUR 40,904) minimum.
3. 50/50 rule breach. More than 50% of the workforce is non-EEA permit holders (GEP only).
4. Role on the Ineligible List. The specific occupation is listed as ineligible for GEP.
5. Incomplete or incorrect documentation. Missing tax clearance, incorrect company details, or mismatched information between forms and supporting documents.
6. Role not matching the Critical Skills Occupations List. Applied for CSEP but the role is not on the CSOL at the offered salary.
The Review Process
How to Challenge a Refusal
Step 1: Read the refusal letter carefully
DETE provides specific reasons. Address every single point -- do not assume you know why it was refused without reading the letter.
Step 2: Request a review within 28 days
You have 28 days from the refusal date to submit a review request. This is reviewed by a different caseworker.
Step 3: Provide additional evidence
The review is your opportunity to submit corrected or additional documentation that addresses the specific refusal reasons.
Step 4: Wait for the review outcome
Review processing typically takes 4-8 weeks.
The review is not an appeal to an independent body. It is an internal DETE review by a different caseworker. If the review upholds the refusal, your remaining option is to re-apply with a fresh application that addresses all issues.
Re-Application After Refusal
There is no cooling-off period for most employment permit refusals. You can re-apply immediately after addressing the issues. However, re-applying with the same problems will result in the same outcome.
Building a Stronger Application
Address every point in the refusal letter -- do not leave any unresolved
If LMNT was the issue, run entirely new ads meeting all three requirements
If 50/50 was the issue, hire EEA workers first or use CSEP (exempt from 50/50)
If documentation was the issue, have every document cross-checked before submission
Consider using a platform or solicitor to review the re-application before filing
The Cost of Refusal
A refused permit costs the full EUR 1,000 application fee (non-refundable if refused after processing). Add the time cost: 5-10 weeks wasted on the original application, 4-8 weeks for the review, and the re-application time. Total delay: 3-6 months. For roles in acute shortage, this delay has a real operational cost.
How Recruitroo Prevents Refusals
Recruitroo validates every permit application against the current DETE requirements before submission. We check the Ineligible List, verify 50/50 compliance, confirm LMNT evidence, and cross-check all documentation. Our refusal rate is near zero because the validation happens before the application is filed, not after.
Had a permit refused?
Send us the refusal letter. We will review the reasons, advise on your options, and help build a re-application that addresses every issue.
Get a QuoteSee Client StoriesThis guide reflects Irish employment permit refusal and review procedures as of May 2026. DETE processes are subject to change.