Working in Ireland as a Foreigner: Caregiver, Warehouse, Cleaning & Driving Roles
How to secure a job offer and the General Employment Permit (GEP) from Ireland’s Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment (DETE).
Getting a job in Ireland as a foreigner—especially in roles like caregiver, warehouse, cleaning, and driving—requires a job offer from an Irish employer and an Employment Permit from the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment (DETE). The primary permit for these roles is the General Employment Permit (GEP).
1) Employment Permit Requirements (General Overview)
For non-EEA citizens, your main challenge is finding an employer willing to sponsor your General Employment Permit (GEP).
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Job Offer | You must have a bona fide job offer from an employer in Ireland. |
| Salary | Generally a minimum of €34,000/year. Some healthcare roles may have exceptions. |
| Ineligible List | The occupation must not be on the Ineligible List of Occupations. Standard Warehouse Operatives and Cleaners are typically ineligible unless the role is specialised or managerial. |
| Labour Market Test | Employer must show they advertised the vacancy to EEA/Irish candidates first and couldn’t fill the role. |
| 50:50 Rule | At least 50% of the workforce must be EEA/Irish citizens at the time of application. |
2) Specific Job Categories and Requirements
🧑⚕ Caregiver / Healthcare Assistant
- Permit Status: Often eligible for the GEP due to high demand in healthcare.
- Qualifications: Typically a QQI Level 5 in Healthcare Support (or equivalent). Some employers hire with the condition you complete Irish qualifications upon arrival.
- Experience: ~1 year paid experience helps significantly.
- Police Clearance: International Police Clearance Certificate for all countries lived in since age 16.
📦 Warehouse Operatives & 🧼 Cleaners
- Permit Status: Standard entry-level roles are generally on the Ineligible List and excluded from GEP.
- Viable Route: Apply only if the role is managerial or highly skilled (e.g., Warehouse Manager at €34,000+, Senior Logistics/Supply Chain Analyst meeting Critical Skills criteria).
- Tip: Don’t focus your search on basic operative/cleaner roles unless you have a spouse/partner status that allows work without sponsorship.
🚚 Drivers (HGV/Truck Drivers)
- Permit Status: HGV drivers are a specific occupation eligible for the GEP due to shortages.
- Salary: Must meet the GEP minimum, currently €34,000/year.
- Licence: An HGV licence equivalent to Irish C1 or C1E and eligibility to exchange it for an Irish licence.
- Professional Cards: Valid CPC (Driver Certificate of Professional Competence) and digital tachograph card.
3) How to Apply
- Find a Job: Search IrishJobs.ie, Jobs.ie, Indeed Ireland. Filter for roles stating “visa sponsorship” or “General Employment Permit”. Prioritise Caregiving and HGV Driving.
- Get an Offer: Once you receive a valid offer, your employer usually initiates the GEP application.
- Permit Application: Apply online via DETE’s Employment Permits Online System (EPOS). Fee: €1,000 (up to 24 months).
- Visa Application: After your permit is granted, apply for a long-stay D Employment Visa at the Irish embassy/consulate before travelling.
Need Help? Get Assistance with Your Application
Get step-by-step guidance on eligibility, documents, and employer outreach from experts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a GEP for entry-level warehouse or cleaning jobs?
Typically no, because these roles are often on the Ineligible List. Consider managerial/specialised roles or focus on caregiving and HGV driving.
Do I need Irish qualifications for caregiving?
Many employers prefer or require QQI Level 5 in Healthcare Support. Some may hire you on the condition that you complete it in Ireland.
What is the 50:50 rule?
At least 50% of the employer’s workforce must be EEA/Irish nationals when applying for the permit.
