Martin taggart

Certificate of Sponsorship in Ireland: Everything You Need to Know

  1. What is a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) in Ireland?
    In Ireland, the Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) refers to the documentation provided by an employer to sponsor a foreign national for employment. While not officially called a “CoS” as in the UK, the equivalent in Ireland is the employer’s support for a work permit application, such as:
  • General Employment Permits.
  • Critical Skills Employment Permits.
  • Intra-Company Transfer Permits.

Employers must be registered and approved to sponsor foreign workers under Irish immigration rules.

  1. Why is Employer Sponsorship Important in Ireland?
    Employer sponsorship ensures that foreign nationals have:
  • A legal basis to work in Ireland.
  • A valid job offer from a licensed employer.
  • Compliance with Irish labor laws and immigration regulations.

The sponsorship demonstrates that the employer is willing to take responsibility for the worker’s role and meets labor market standards.

  1. Who Needs a Certificate of Sponsorship in Ireland?
    Non-EU/EEA nationals typically require employer sponsorship to apply for a work permit. This includes individuals seeking roles in sectors such as IT, healthcare, engineering, and construction.
  1. Types of Work Permits Requiring Sponsorship in Ireland
  2. General Employment Permit: For occupations not on the Critical Skills Occupations List.
  3. Critical Skills Employment Permit: For highly skilled roles in demand.
  4. Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) Permit: For employees transferring within a multinational company.
  5. Contract for Services Permit: For contractors providing services to a client in Ireland.

Each permit requires employer sponsorship and evidence of compliance with labor market needs.

  1. Steps for Employers to Sponsor a Worker in Ireland
  • Step 1: Register as an Employer
    Employers must register with the Department of Enterprise, Trade, and Employment (DETE) to hire non-EU/EEA workers.
  • Step 2: Conduct a Labour Market Needs Test (if required)
    For General Employment Permits, employers may need to advertise the role locally to prove no suitable candidate is available in Ireland or the EU/EEA.
  • Step 3: Provide a Job Offer
    Issue a formal job offer detailing the role, responsibilities, and salary (must meet minimum thresholds).
  • Step 4: Support the Work Permit Application
    Provide necessary documentation for the work permit application, including:
    • Company registration details.
    • Job description and contract.
    • Evidence of compliance with labor laws.
  • Step 5: Comply with Post-Approval Requirements
    After the permit is issued, ensure the worker registers with the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) and obtains a GNIB card (residency permission).
  1. Documents Required for Sponsorship
  • Employer’s registration details with DETE.
  • Signed employment contract.
  • Detailed job description, salary, and benefits.
  • Evidence of recruitment efforts (if applicable).
  • Proof of compliance with minimum salary thresholds.
  1. Salary Requirements for Work Permits
  • Critical Skills Permit: Minimum annual salary of €32,000–€64,000, depending on the role.
  • General Employment Permit: Minimum annual salary of €30,000 (exceptions for certain roles).

These thresholds ensure foreign workers earn competitive wages aligned with Irish labor standards.

  1. Responsibilities of Employers Sponsoring Workers
    Employers sponsoring foreign workers must:
  • Comply with immigration and labor laws.
  • Notify DETE of any changes in employment terms.
  • Ensure the worker registers with immigration authorities.
  • Retain records of compliance for audits or inspections.
  1. Benefits of Sponsorship for Employers and Workers
  • For Employers: Access to a global talent pool, filling skill gaps in critical industries.
  • For Workers: Legal authorization to work, with pathways to long-term residency and family reunification.
  1. Conclusion
    The Certificate of Sponsorship (or its equivalent) is a vital component of Ireland’s work permit system, facilitating legal employment for non-EU/EEA nationals. By understanding sponsorship requirements and responsibilities, both employers and workers can ensure compliance with Irish immigration laws and benefit from Ireland’s thriving labor market.
  1. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
  • Is there a Certificate of Sponsorship in Ireland like in the UK?
    While not officially called a CoS, Ireland’s work permit process requires employer sponsorship, similar to the UK system.
  • How do employers sponsor foreign workers in Ireland?
    Employers must register with DETE, provide a job offer, and support the worker’s permit application.
  • Can an employee switch employers while on a work permit?
    It depends on the permit type. Critical Skills Permits allow switching after 12 months, but others may have restrictions.
  • What is the salary threshold for sponsorship in Ireland?
    It varies by permit type, typically starting at €30,000 annually for General Employment Permits.
  • Do sponsored workers need additional permission to reside in Ireland?
    Yes, they must register with INIS and obtain a residency permit (GNIB card).
  • Can family members join sponsored workers in Ireland?
    Yes, family reunification is possible, especially for Critical Skills Employment Permit holders.
Trisha Lee