All family members are South African only passport holders

Overview of Work Permits in Ireland

Ireland has several work permit types, but for most people moving from South Africa, only two matter. These are the Critical Skills Employment Permit and the General Employment Permit. These permits offer the most reliable path for long term work and for bringing your family to Ireland, which is why we focus on them at SA2Eire.

Other permissions to move exist, but they apply in limited situations and usually do not support a full family move. You can read more about these below, but the Critical Skills and General permits are the main routes for most families.

Where to Begin

Since July 2024, South African citizens must apply for an entry visa before travelling to Ireland. This means every stage of your move must be correct from the start. The job offer, the employment permit and the visa must all align. Any unclear or missing information can cause delays or refusals.

Your first step is to check if your career is eligible for a work permit. SA2Eire offers a simple eligibility check for only €5 so you know from the beginning whether a move is possible.

SA2Eire Eligibility report

The New Family Reunification Policy

The family rules changed on 26 November 2025. These changes affect when and how your family can join you, the income level you need to meet, how long you must be in Ireland before applying and the type of accommodation you will need to show. The rules for older children and dependent relatives are also different now.

Many families find this confusing, which is why we explain the new rules clearly and help you plan a realistic timeline.

Family Reunification explained

Before You Apply for Work in Ireland

There are a few points you must understand before you accept a job offer or apply for a permit. These decisions shape your move and your family’s future.

1. Am I eligible for a work permit
   Not all careers qualify. You must check your job title, duties, qualifications and experience.

2. Which work permit can I apply for
   Most applicants fall under the Critical Skills Employment Permit or the General Employment Permit. These permits have different rules, benefits and processing times.

3. Can my family join me
   The new family policy sets clear rules on who can join you, when they can come and which income thresholds apply.

4. What salary do I need
   Ireland now has fixed income levels for sponsoring partners, minor children and adult dependants. Your job offer must meet these thresholds if you want your family to join you. The other consideration is not what the minimum salary should be, but what do I need to earn to make it a good move in one of the most expensive countries in the EU. You dont move countries to trade 1 set of struggles, for another of struggles. Budgeting is vital!

5. How long will it take
   Each permit route has different timelines. Some families can apply to move without waiting times before submitting the entry visa. Others must wait until the sponsor meets all requirements before submitting the entry visa.

6. How do I apply for work
   You apply directly to Irish employers and recruitment agencies. Ireland does not use a central job system. Your CV and cover letter need to meet Irish standards, and you should target roles known to secure work permits.

How SA2Eire Helps

We guide you through each of these points before you make any major decisions. Our membership gives you access to detailed information, and our coaching sessions give you personalised advice based on your job history, income needs and family structure.

At SA2Eire, we explain what each permit requires, how long each step takes and what you need to prepare. We help you avoid mistakes that can cost you time, money or even your chance to move.

Your move to Ireland is a major decision. Understanding your work permit options early gives you the strongest foundation for success.

SA2eire Membership

• Intra-company transfer
• Internship Employment Permit
• Sport and Cultural Employment Permit
• Exchange Agreement Employment Permit
• Atypical Work permit scheme- Nurses
• Atypical Work permit scheme- Doctors

For information on these go to Irish Immigration