Understanding Processing Timelines
One of the most common questions in international recruitment is "how long will the permit take?" This guide provides realistic expectations and tips to speed up the process.
Irish Employment Permits
Processing times are published weekly by the Department of Enterprise (DETE).
Current Typical Timelines
| Permit Type | Standard Processing |
|-------------|---------------------|
| Critical Skills (CSEP) | 6-8 weeks |
| General Employment (GEP) | 8-10 weeks |
| Intra-Company Transfer | 6-8 weeks |
| Contract for Services | 8-10 weeks |
| Renewals | 8-12 weeks |
Note: These are typical times—actual processing varies based on volume and complexity.
Trusted Partner Scheme
Employers registered as Trusted Partners may receive faster processing:
- Reduced review requirements
- Streamlined applications
- Priority handling
Factors Affecting Irish Processing
Longer processing:
- Incomplete applications
- Missing documents
- Complex cases requiring review
- High application volumes
Faster processing:
- Complete, accurate applications
- Standard occupations
- Clear documentation
- Trusted Partner status
UK Skilled Worker Visa
The Home Office offers multiple processing speeds.
Processing Options
| Service Level | Timeline | Additional Cost |
|---------------|----------|-----------------|
| Standard | 3-8 weeks | Included |
| Priority | 5 working days | £500 |
| Super Priority | 24 hours | £1,000 |
Note: Priority services may not be available at all visa application centres.
Certificate of Sponsorship Timeline
Before the visa application:
- Defined CoS request: 1-3 working days (Home Office approval)
- Undefined CoS: Immediate assignment
Factors Affecting UK Processing
Country of application:
- Some countries have longer processing times
- Priority services unavailable in some locations
Application complexity:
- Criminal record checks
- TB test requirements
- Document verification
Complete Timeline: Ireland
For a typical Irish hire, expect:
| Stage | Duration |
|-------|----------|
| LMNT advertising (GEP) | 28 days |
| Document collection | 1-2 weeks |
| Application preparation | 1 week |
| Processing | 6-10 weeks |
| Entry visa (if needed) | 2-4 weeks |
| Travel arrangements | 1-2 weeks |
| Total | 3-5 months |
Complete Timeline: UK
For a typical UK hire:
| Stage | Duration |
|-------|----------|
| Sponsor Licence (if needed) | 8-14 weeks |
| CoS assignment | 1-3 days |
| Visa application prep | 1 week |
| Visa processing | 3-8 weeks |
| BRP collection | After arrival |
| Total (with licence) | 4-6 months |
| Total (existing licence) | 6-10 weeks |
Tips to Avoid Delays
Before Applying
- Verify all documents are current
- Get certified translations early
- Complete LMNT period before applying
- Use correct SOC codes and salary rates
During Application
- Submit complete applications
- Respond to requests promptly
- Provide clear documentation
- Use correct payment methods
Common Delay Causes
- Missing or expired documents
- Incorrect forms
- Salary below thresholds
- Incomplete LMNT evidence
- Payment issues
Tracking Your Application
Ireland (EPOS)
- Login to track status
- Status updates via email
- Estimated decision date shown
UK
- Use reference number to track
- Email notifications for decisions
- Online status checker available
When Decisions Are Made
Positive Decision
- Permit/visa issued
- Proceed to next steps (entry visa, travel)
- Recruitroo notifies both parties
Request for Information
- Additional documents needed
- Respond within specified timeframe
- Clock pauses during response period
Refusal
- Reasons provided in decision
- Review options available
- Reapplication possible
Recruitroo tracks all applications and provides real-time status updates, alerting you immediately when decisions are made.