Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 December 2025
373. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the progress that has been made to date by the interdepartmental group established to review the single application process for employment permits and visa applications; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [69843/25]
View answerOver the last number of years my officials, in collaboration with officials in the Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration (DJHAM) have been working strenuously to deliver a more efficient and streamlined employment permit and visa system. The intention being to increase the competitiveness of Ireland in attracting the skills and talent the economy needs - especially in sectors like healthcare and construction.
A key element of this is the implementation of a single application procedure for both employment permits and immigration permissions, in line with the Single Permit Directive. It is expected that this will reduce the complexity of the current system, ensuring that the process responds effectively and quickly to meet the skills and labour needs of businesses.
A programme implementation team, co-chaired by my department and the DJHAM has been established. The initial focus of this group has been the streamlining of existing processes and coordinated external communication, scoping the feasibility of technological, legislative, and data sharing solutions, agreeing and laying the groundwork for subsequent implementation. The expected delivery date for this complex project is 2027.
The modernisation and integration of the IT systems in both departments is integral to delivering this project. I am pleased to report that earlier this year, my department launched the new ‘Employment Permits Online’ system. This portal-based system has made the application process easier, more secure, and more intuitive, resulting in a more streamlined processing experience for applicants. It sits on a Microsoft Power Platform which is based on similar technologies that the DJHAM IT systems are expected to move to and will support the infrastructure required for a single application process across the two departments.
The next phase of the development of the employment permits system is now underway and will include exploring the potential use of disruptive technologies, like Artificial Intelligence, building on this more modern and stable foundation. It will identify opportunities for service improvement that will result in further efficiency gains and an overall sleeker customer experience.
In advance of fully implementing a single application procedure for employment permits and immigration permissions, officials in both departments are actively examining options to expedite visa processing for critical skills employment permit holders in high-demand sectors.
These developments mark a necessary and significant step towards a more integrated and efficient employment permit and visa system and will strengthen Ireland’s reputation as an attractive place to work and do business. My department remains committed to delivering a streamlined and customer focused service.
