As of 2nd September 2024, employment permit holders can change their employer without applying for a new permit, provided they have completed at least nine months with their current employer.
Here’s what you need to know if you would like to apply to change employer:
Nine-Month Requirement: You must have completed nine months of employment with your current employer. This is applicable to those holding either a general or critical employment permit.
In exceptional cases, like redundancy, exploitation or major changes to your employment situation you might be eligible for a new employment permit for a different job within the first nine months. Contact us for more info.
Permit Validity: Your current employment permit must be valid and have at least two months validity remaining at the time of applying for the change.
Occupation: The new role must be within the same occupation or occupational classification as the original permit.
- For GEP holders, this means moving within the same type of employment identified by its 4-digit Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code.
- For CSEP holders, the move can be across a broader category of employments within the same 3-digit SOC code.
Key Conditions
- Number of Changes Allowed: A permit holder can change their employer up to three times under this provision.
- Contract of Employment: A new contract, signed by both the new employer and the employee, must be submitted with the application. The employee must commence employment with the new employer within one month of the new permit being issued.
- No New Labour Market Needs Test (LMNT): There is no requirement to conduct a labour market needs test when changing employers. This is because the occupation has already been tested in the domestic and EEA labour markets or is identified as being in critical short supply.
Application Process for Changing Employer
- Prepare the Required Documentation:
– Completed and signed application form.
– A signed contract of employment with the new employer.
– Any additional documentation that might be required depending on your specific situation.
- Submit the Change of Employer Request:
Completed and signed application form, together with a new signed contract of employment should be submitted via email to eptransfer@enterprise.gov.ie
- Wait for Decision:
The processing time may vary depending on the application.
- Starting with the New Employer:
You must begin your new role within one month. It is important to note that you cannot start the new job until the employment permit has been reissued.
We advise you to remain with your current employer until the Change of Employer process is completed.
For full information about how to change employer please read the Department’s website at the link below
Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment website
