Upcoming increases in remuneration thresholds for employment permits

At a glance

• New roadmap on gradual increases to the remuneration thresholds applicable to employment permits.
• Increased fees will apply from 1 March 2026 with further adjustments to be phased in until 2030.  

Key changes in 2026

The increased remuneration thresholds that will apply from 1 March 2026 are detailed in the table below. Reduced thresholds will apply for recent graduates within 12 months of graduation.

The new plan proposes a gradual implementation of increased thresholds through to 2030. The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment has commented that the roadmap ensures that Ireland remains competitive, protects workers, and supports businesses.

Indexation

From 2027 to 2030, minimum thresholds for certain permits will be reviewed and adjusted annually through indexation.

This means that if average weekly earnings, as reported by the Central Statistics Office, increase, the minimum salary thresholds for permits will also increase by at least the same percentage.

This ensures minimum thresholds do not plateau but rather that they remain aligned with average earnings across the market. If average earnings in respect of a particular role increase since the date a permit for that role was issued, the salary threshold applicable at the renewal of that permit will increase.

Index only = Will adjust based on national average earnings index.

TBD = To be determined following annual review and indexation.