Online employment permits system to launch in September

IMPACT – HIGH

What is the change? A highly anticipated online employment permits application system will launch in September, making the application process smoother and faster.

What does the change mean? The Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation is requesting that employers refrain from submitting new employment permit applications until the faster online system begins operation in September. It is BAL’s view that applications are likely to be delayed while the transition to the new system takes place. In addition, it is likely that applications filed under the new electronic system are also likely to be delayed in the immediate term while employers, agents and the DJEI adapt to the system.

• Implementation time frame: Early September; a precise date has not been given.
• Visas/permits affected: Employment permits.
• Who is affected: AllIrish companies filing employment permit applications (standard processing and Trusted Partner processing).
• Impact on processing times: The online process will allow for faster processing of applications.
• Business impact: The system will ease the preparation and submission of applications.
• Next steps: Employers should work with their BAL professional to determine if they can put new applications on hold until the online system is implemented, and adjust business schedules accordingly.

Background: Ireland announced plans for the Employment Permit Online System (EPOS) last year. EPOS is expected to streamline the application process by allowing users to complete applications, upload supporting documentation and pay government processing fees through one platform. It is also expected that companies will be able to apply for Trusted Partner status through EPOS.

BAL Analysis: BAL, among others, has been lobbying the DJEI for an online application system for some time. As the rollout has been delayed since 2015, the planned September launch is welcome news to BAL and our clients. The move to an online application system should improve the process and turnaround speed of employment permit applications in the medium to longer term. BAL would highlight that in the short term there are likely to be processing delays.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group in the United Kingdom. For additional information, please contact uk@bal.com.

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