Immigrate to Ireland with Your Family in 2026: 7 Key Steps Under the New Policy

Are you dreaming of a new life in Ireland, one of Europe’s most vibrant and opportunity-filled countries? If so, 2026 could be your year! With new policies introduced in 2025, Ireland has streamlined the immigration process for skilled workers and their families.

Whether you’re a healthcare professional, engineer, or tech expert, this guide will walk you through the steps to make your dream a reality.

What’s New for 2026 Applicants? (Policy Highlights)

Ireland has implemented several key updates for prospective immigrants:

• New Digital Application Portal: A cloud-based system simplifies and accelerates work visa processing.
• Faster Job Change Rules: You can switch employers after just nine months.
• Updated Salary Thresholds: Certain roles, like healthcare assistants, now have new minimum salary requirements.
• More Family-Friendly Policies: Spouses and children of permit holders have clearer and quicker routes to join and work.
• Streamlined Critical Skills List: The in-demand occupation list now emphasizes health, construction, IT, and green jobs.

1: Find a Job in Ireland

Starting with a job is crucial since most work visas require employer sponsorship. Your application process begins with a genuine job offer.

Where to Find Jobs:

• JobsIreland.ie
• IrishJobs.ie
• EURES
• LinkedIn & Indeed Ireland
• Specialist Recruiters

Focus on Industries Like:

• Healthcare: Nurses, care workers, medical technicians
• Engineering & IT: Software, mechanical, civil engineers
• Hospitality & Food Services
• Construction & Skilled Trades
• Financial Services

2: Apply for the Right Type of Irish Work Visa

Once you secure a job offer, you need to apply for a work permit. Ireland offers two main categories:

1. Critical Skills Employment Permit

This permit is ideal for:

• Roles experiencing a national skills shortage (e.g., engineers, doctors, ICT experts)
• Jobs that pay €38,000+ for graduates or €64,000+ for others

Benefits:

• Fast-track path to permanent residency (Stamp 4 after two years)
• Spouses can work full-time without a separate permit.

2. General Employment Permit

This permit is suitable for:

• Jobs not on the critical skills list
• Minimum salary: €30,000–€39,000 depending on the role

Note: This type usually requires a Labour Market Needs Test to show no local or EU worker is available.

3: Submit Your Employment Permit Application

• Your employer applies through Ireland’s Employment Permits Online System (EPOS).
• You may need to submit supporting documents like your passport and contract.
• Once approved, you’ll receive a permit letter to proceed to the visa stage.
• Processing Time: 4–8 weeks for most permits.

4: Apply for an Irish Work Visa (Long Stay D Visa)

After your permit is approved, apply for your visa to enter Ireland.

Requirements:

• Work permit approval letter
• Passport (valid for 12+ months)
• Employment contract
• Recent passport-size photos
• Proof of accommodation
• Proof of funds or salary statement
• Application Method: Online through the AVATS portal.
• Fee: €60–€100 depending on single or multiple entries.

5: Bring Your Family Along

Ireland’s family-friendly policies make it easier for families to settle together.

Spouse & Children Can:

• Apply under the Join Family visa category
• Obtain a dependent work permit or Stamp 1G (spouses of critical skills permit holders can work without restrictions)
• Study in Irish schools or pursue higher education

Documents Needed:

• Marriage certificate or birth certificates
• Proof of relationship
• Your valid work permit and income statements
• Proof of Irish address or accommodation

6: Arrive in Ireland & Get Your Residence Permission

After arriving:

• Register with Irish immigration (GNIB/INIS) within 90 days.
• You’ll receive a residence permit (usually Stamp 1 or Stamp 4).
• This permit allows you to live and work legally in Ireland.

7: Settle Down and Plan for Long-Term Residency

After two years on a Critical Skills Permit, you can apply for Stamp 4, which allows you to work without a permit and access most social benefits. After five years of legal residency, you may apply for Long-Term Residency or even Irish Citizenship, subject to language and residence requirements.

Conclusion

Ireland offers an exciting opportunity for skilled workers and their families looking to build a better life. With a straightforward application process and welcoming policies, now is the perfect time to leap. Follow these steps to embark on your journey to a new life in Ireland!