Work authorisation

The HR Research team will support non- EU employees in obtaining valid work authorisation (Work Permits, Hosting Agreements and Immigration stamps). When a new employee has been identified, the HR Representative at Recruitment along with PI/Line Manager will work with HR Research to begin the work authorisation process in advance of commencement.

  • Employment permits

In order to work in Ireland a non-EEA National, unless they are exempt, must hold a valid Employment Permit. Employment permits are processed by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment (DETE). The Human resources office will process and make contact with DETE in relation to all work permit applications in respect of prospective employees or renewal of work permits for existing employees of UL. For more information on different types of employment permits, and eligibility criteria, please click Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment website

  • Hosting agreement

Non-EU Researchers applying for research positions in accredited research organisations can use a fast-track work permit (Hosting Agreement) scheme. This allows the host research organisation to employ the researcher without the need for a work permit.  Additionally, this scheme allows the researcher’s immediate family to reside in Ireland for the duration of the agreement and work without any permission to work. The University of Limerick is an accredited research organisation and can apply on the Researchers behalf. More information on this scheme can be found on EURAXESS IRELAND 

  • Immigration Stamps

Stamp 4 indicates permission to stay in Ireland for a specified period, subject to conditions. Stamp 4 is reckonable as residence when applying for citizenship by naturalisation.              

You may be given Stamp 4, after you have had a permission to work in Ireland:

  • With a valid Critical Skills Employment Permit for 2 years
  • With a valid employment permit for 5 years
  • As a Researcher (with a valid Hosting Agreement) for 2 years.

Entry Visa

It is the responsibility of the employee to obtain the correct visa to enter Ireland. Please note if you are travelling to Ireland to commence a contract of employment you must get the appropriate visa. Your embassy or consulate will assist should you have queries.

Details on countries requiring a visa and the visa process can be found at the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS)

Register with Immigration

When you arrive in Ireland, you must register with the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB).

The address is as follows; Immigration Office, Garda Station Henry Street, Limerick - Tel: (061) 212488

You will need; ·

  • Your Contract
  • Hosting Agreement /Work Permit
  • Current Passport

An Irish Residence Permit (IRP) card costs €300 per person and must be renewed annually. The Immigration office will only accept debit/credit card or bank giro and not cash. Each family member over 16 years and on a hosting agreement (if applicable) must register in person with the GNIB. Please note that it is the responsibility of the employee to familiarise themselves with their immigration requirements and keep their visa and stamps up to date.

Should you have any mobility queries please contact us at hrresearch@ul.ie

Please note that employees cannot commence employment with the University until their Work Permit/Hosting Agreement has been issued.

Visiting Academics/Researchers

Visiting Academics/Researchers to the University of Limerick must engage with Immigration Services before leaving their source country to ensure they hold the correct visa permission to enter and remain in Ireland for an approved period of time. More information can be found here.

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