A total of 6,868 employment permits were granted to Indian individuals during the first seven months of 2023, according to figures released by the Irish government.
These permits were allocated across various sectors including health and social work activities, information and communication activities, accommodation and food services, financial and insurance activities, as well as agriculture, forestry, and fishing.
In a broader context, Ireland has issued a cumulative count of 18,367 employment permits during the initial seven months of this year. Correspondingly, the government’s data also disclosed that 967 permits were declined while 403 permits were withdrawn within the same period.
Earlier, the Irish government had made noteworthy adjustments to the terms and conditions of the Atypical Working Scheme, a program tailored for short-term contracts intended for nationals of non-European Economic Area (EEA) countries seeking employment in Ireland for a limited duration. This scheme has facilitated legal employment for individuals in short-term positions.
Among the recent changes introduced by the Department of Justice, effective from January 1 of this year, was the revision of the salary threshold for the program.
The salary requirement was realigned with the salary stipulation for the General Employment Permit, signaling that employers pursuing this visa option must ensure that the minimum salary exceeds €30,000. This adjustment aims to maintain consistency and fairness in the wage standards.
Another significant amendment involved the reduction of the waiting period for obtaining permission under the Atypical Working Scheme. Presently, the permit issued through this scheme is valid for 90 days.
Additionally, the Irish government clarified that this 90-day period can also be utilized for multiple entries and exits from Ireland, as long as the total accumulated time spent in the country does not exceed 90 days over a six-month duration.
These changes not only reflect Ireland’s evolving approach to managing its workforce and ensuring equitable conditions but also underline the country’s commitment to attracting and accommodating international talent in its workforce.