Occupation lists under review, employers invited to submit comments

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Ireland’s Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation is reviewing the lists of occupations that are eligible to be filled by foreign workers. The department is accepting comments and recommendations from employers and other stakeholders on the occupations that should be included or removed from the Highly Skilled Eligible Occupations List (HSEOL) and the Ineligible Categories of Employment List (ICEL).

What does the change mean? Employers have until Nov. 2. to submit recommendations on the occupations that should be available to foreign employees.

• Implementation time frame: Between now and Nov. 2.
• Visas/permits affected: Employment Permits.
• Who is affected: Irish companies hiring and recruiting foreign employees.
• Next steps: Information on how to submit recommendations is available on this Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation site.

Background: Irish authorities recently began reviewing the HSEOL and ICEL, which play a key role in determining what types of workers qualify for an employment permit. The HSEOL is made up of occupations where there is a shortage of skills, experience or qualifications among EEA/Swiss applicants. Workers whose occupations are on the HSEOL can apply for Critical Skills Employment Permits. Workers whose occupations are on the ICEL generally cannot apply for an employment permit. 

Analysis & Comments: Employers have an opportunity to make a business case to have occupations added to the HSEOL or removed from the ICEL. The lists are reviewed on a biannual basis and those who wish to submit recommendations this round should do so before the Nov. 2 deadline.

Source: Deloitte LLP. Deloitte LLP is a limited liability partnership registered in England and Wales with registered number OC303675 and its registered office at 1 New Street Square, London EC4A 3HQ, United Kingdom.