Ireland’s employment permits system is set for a longer, more gradual salary reform after the Government published the outcome of its 2025 roadmap review. The plan will increase minimum annual remuneration across employment permit categories while phasing out very low thresholds for selected agri-food and healthcare roles.
Published by the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment on 2 December 2025, the roadmap aims to balance worker protection with the practical needs of employers facing higher costs and difficult global economic conditions.
Employment permits salary changes will continue through 2030
Under the revised roadmap, the planned increases will not be completed by 2026. Instead, adjustments will be introduced gradually through 2030, with the first increase scheduled for 1 March 2026.
The revised approach follows a review of the Government’s 2023 plan to raise salary thresholds over a two-year period. Officials said the longer implementation period is intended to help businesses adapt while ensuring that employment permit holders are not unfairly affected by rapid changes during renewals.
What the 2025 review considered
The review drew on more than 150 submissions from employers, employment permit holders, trade unions and representative organisations. It also examined:
- Rising operating costs and wider economic pressures affecting businesses.
- Concerns from migrant worker advocates about permit renewals under quickly introduced thresholds.
- The need to maintain Ireland’s competitiveness in attracting international workers.
- Measures to strengthen employment standards and protect workers.
The roadmap is aligned with the Employment Permits Act 2024, which provides the legislative framework for Ireland’s employment permits policy.
Read more
Impact on employers and international workers
Employers that rely on employment permits will need to monitor the detailed thresholds applying to their specific permit category. Businesses in sectors such as food production, agriculture, healthcare and other areas experiencing labour shortages may benefit from a phased transition rather than an immediate full increase.
For workers, the gradual model may provide greater certainty when applying for or renewing a permit. However, applicants and employers should check the official requirements before making recruitment, salary or renewal decisions. Relevant guidance is expected through gov.ie and the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment.
The policy also reflects the wider role of Enterprise Ireland and IDA Ireland in supporting enterprise growth, while employment regulation remains connected to the work of bodies such as the Workplace Relations Commission.
Explore more
What happens next?
The first revised salary adjustment is due to begin on 1 March 2026, followed by further phased changes until 2030. The Government’s stated objective is to create a predictable transition that supports sustainable businesses, safeguards employment rights and keeps Ireland attractive to skilled and essential workers.
Employers and permit holders should follow official updates rather than relying on outdated salary information. The key takeaway is that Ireland’s employment permits reforms will proceed, but at a slower pace designed to provide more time for adaptation.
Article/Image Courtesy: gov.ie
