Nigerian applicants · Republic of Ireland
General Employment Permit for Nigerian citizens
Sponsored employment permit for roles not on the Critical Skills list but above the general salary threshold.
- Processing time
- Typically 8–12 weeks.
- Government fees
- €1,000 for 2 years.
- Typical duration
- 2 years initially; renewable; longer-term residence possible after 5 years.
- Sponsor required
- Yes
- Leads to settlement
- Yes
Bilateral context
- Commonwealth
Consular processing: Abuja
Tourist entry vs. this route
Nigerian nationals require a visa for any entry into Republic of Ireland. The General Employment Permit is one of the routes available; tourist entry is a separate application.
Visa overview
The General Employment Permit covers occupations not listed on the Critical Skills Occupations List, provided they are not on the Ineligible List. A Labour Market Needs Test (LMNT) is normally required unless exempt. Minimum salary was raised to €34,000 in January 2024 with further increases signalled.
Eligibility
Typical criteria
- ✓Job offer above the minimum salary threshold for the year of application.
- ✓Occupation not on the Ineligible Occupations List.
- ✓Labour Market Needs Test satisfied by the employer, unless exempt.
Common blockers
- !Occupation on the Ineligible Occupations List.
- !Employer does not run or satisfy the LMNT.
Typical evidence
- ·Signed employment contract.
- ·Evidence of LMNT compliance (advertisement in qualifying media).
Application pathway
Confirm occupation eligibility
Check that the role is not on the Ineligible Occupations List.
Employer conducts LMNT
Advertise the role in a national newspaper and on EURES, Jobs Ireland, and one other media source for the required period, unless exempt.
Submit permit application
Employer or employee submits via EPOS.
Obtain visa if required and travel
Non-EEA nationals from visa-required countries apply for an entry visa.
Register with ISD on arrival
Receive Stamp 1 permission.
Other Republic of Ireland routes covered for Nigerian applicants
Comparable routes in other destinations
Frequently asked questions
Are Nigerian citizens eligible for the General Employment Permit?+
Eligibility for the General Employment Permit is set by Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment and is not nationality-restricted beyond the general criteria, though Nigerian applicants may also have access to the following bilateral or treaty frameworks: Commonwealth. See the criteria below for the published requirements.
Where do Nigerian applicants typically file the General Employment Permit?+
Abuja. Specific intake (online portal, biometrics centre, or in-country lodgement) is determined by Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment — confirm the current intake channel on the primary source linked above before filing.
Do Nigerian applicants need a tourist visa for Republic of Ireland as well?+
Nigerian nationals require a visa for any entry into Republic of Ireland. The General Employment Permit is one of the routes available; tourist entry is a separate application.
Can spouses work on a General Employment Permit?+
Spouses of General Employment Permit holders receive Stamp 3 permission, which does not permit work. They can apply for their own employment permit if they secure a qualifying offer. This is a key difference from the Critical Skills route.