Effective February 19, 2025, Ireland has introduced a Seasonal Employment Permit, a significant development for seasonal workers. Previously, Ireland lacked a dedicated work permit for seasonal employees, making this a new opportunity for workers and employers in sectors reliant on short-term labor.
What is the Seasonal Employment Permit?
The Seasonal Employment Permit allows non-European Economic Area (EEA) nationals to engage in seasonal work in Ireland. The permit enables eligible workers to be employed for a maximum of seven months per year, from April 14 until November 13.
Key Benefits and Sectors Covered
This permit provides employers with a structured pathway to recruit seasonal workers, particularly benefiting the horticulture and food production industries. Seasonal employees, designated as horticultural operatives, will primarily work in the soft fruit and vegetable growing sector.
Renewal and Employment Conditions
- Renewal: Permit holders can renew their permit twice, allowing for a maximum of three seasonal work periods.
- Minimum Salary Requirement: Seasonal Employment Permit holders must receive an annual remuneration of at least EUR 30,000.
- Approved Employers: Only employees of approved seasonal employers can obtain this permit.
- Employer Quotas: The Irish government will grant approved seasonal employer status to only six employers per year. Each approved employer must hire at least two Seasonal Employment Permit holders during their approval period.
What This Means for Employers and Workers
The introduction of the Seasonal Employment Permit marks an essential step in addressing labor shortages in key agricultural and food production sectors. Employers can now legally source temporary international talent, while non-EEA nationals seeking seasonal work in Ireland have a formalized entry pathway.
conclusion
Ireland’s Seasonal Employment Permit opens new opportunities for seasonal workers and businesses. Employers seeking to hire international talent should ensure they obtain approved seasonal employer status, while prospective employees should review eligibility criteria before applying.
For further details on the application process, Contact Us.
