Work Permits

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 9 March 2023

Thursday, 9 March 2023

Ceisteanna (168)

Jackie Cahill

Ceist:

168. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment in the case of an employer who successfully applies for work visas for non-European nationals to come to Ireland, but who are not permitted work visas by the Department of Justice to travel to Ireland to undertake this work, if these employers can be refunded the cost of the work permits that are no longer viable to them; if not, if these permits could be transferred onto other individuals to come to Ireland to take up the same employment, considering the unfairness and cost associated with this on a business that does not get the employees it needs and is entitled to; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12083/23]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment

The Employment Permits legislation provides for a refund of 90% to be paid where an application is either withdrawn or refused. There is no provision in the legislation to provide for a refund once an employment permit has issued. Employers are advised to check that prospective employees meet all of the permit and visa criteria prior to submitting an application.

Employment permits are both employer and employee specific, therefore it is not possible to transfer permits from one employer to another or between non-EEA nationals. If the proposed employment is not taken up by a permit holder, the employment permit must be cancelled. This information is set out in the Employment Permits section of the Department's website.

My Department and the Department of Justice are currently examining the development of a single application procedure for work permits and entry visas. An Inter-Departmental Group has been established to examine the legal and operational changes required to deliver a more seamless customer experience for users of the employment permits and entry visa systems. It is expected to make recommendations to Government within six months.

Information in relation to the different permit types, fees, Checklist documents for General and Critical Skills Employment Permits and a FAQ document which answers the most common questions is available on the Department's website and can be accessed through this link:- Employment Permits - DETE (enterprise.gov.ie).