The government permit fee
The core cost is the DETE employment permit application fee, which varies by permit type and length. It's largely refundable if the permit is refused. The exact fees, and who they're paid to, are set out in the fee table on this page.
Who pays — and what you can't deduct
The employer pays the permit fee, and it's against the rules to recover the permit fee or recruitment costs from the worker's wages. The worker typically covers their own entry visa and the IRP registration fee after arrival.
The other costs to budget for
Beyond the permit fee, an overseas hire usually involves flights and relocation, any professional-registration or credential costs, and the internal time to run the case. A managed service replaces most of that internal admin with a predictable plan.
Frequently asked questions
Who pays for an Irish work permit — employer or employee?
The employer pays the government employment permit fee and cannot deduct it (or recruitment costs) from the worker. The worker generally pays their own entry visa and the IRP registration fee after they arrive.
Is the employment permit fee refundable if it's refused?
A large portion of the permit application fee is refundable if the application is refused. The precise amounts are in the fee table above; always confirm against the current DETE guidance.
What is the total cost of an overseas hire in Ireland?
It's the permit fee plus the visa and registration costs, relocation, any credential/registration fees, and internal admin time. Our managed-service plans fold the admin and coordination into a predictable cost — see our pricing page.
Last reviewed: 16 July 2026. This guide is general information for employers, not legal advice — final decisions rest with DETE.
Sources: Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment (DETE); Irish Immigration Service.