FAQs

Why is compliance important when hiring international employees?

When hiring international candidates, employers must meet strict immigration and employment permit regulations before a person can legally work in Ireland.

This includes:

• Applying for the correct employment permit type
• Ensuring salary thresholds and role eligibility requirements are met
• Submitting accurate documentation to the relevant authorities

Even small mistakes can delay an application or lead to a refusal, which is why many employers work with recruitment partners that provide compliance support.

What employment permits are available in Ireland?

Two of the most common permits used when hiring international talent are:

Critical Skills Employment Permit

• For highly skilled roles experiencing shortages in Ireland
• Typically applies to higher salary positions
• Provides a pathway to long-term residency

General Employment Permit

• Used for roles that do not fall under the critical skills list
• Requires certain employer eligibility criteria

Choosing the correct permit type is one of the most important steps in the process.

Is hiring international talent complicated?

Many employers assume international hiring is overly complicated.

While there are several steps involved, the process becomes much more manageable when supported by an experienced recruitment and compliance team.

With proper planning and documentation, employers can access a much wider talent pool while ensuring the process runs smoothly.

How does FRS Recruitment support employers hiring internationally?

FRS Recruitment provides end-to-end support throughout the international hiring process.

This includes:

• Identifying the correct employment permit
• Preparing application documentation
• Managing compliance checks
• Liaising with the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment
• Supporting employers and candidates throughout the process

This structured approach ensures applications are accurate and submitted efficiently.

What challenges do employers face when applying for permits?

The most common challenges include:

• Applying for the wrong permit type
• Submitting incomplete documentation
• Not meeting eligibility or salary requirements

During the webinar, the FRS compliance team shared an example where a candidate’s permit application had been rejected several times before the correct permit pathway was identified and resubmitted successfully

This highlights the importance of experience and compliance expertise when managing employment permit applications.

What happens after a permit and visa are approved?

Once permits and visas are granted, employers and candidates must prepare for relocation and onboarding.

Support at this stage may include:

• Guidance on accommodation
• Setting up banking and Revenue registration
• Applying for a PPS number
• Preparing occupational health requirements

Providing this support ensures candidates can start their role quickly and settle into life in Ireland smoothly.

Why do employers partner with recruitment agencies for international hiring?

Working with an experienced recruitment partner helps employers:

• Reduce compliance risk
• Navigate changing legislation
• Speed up permit applications
• Access international talent pools

For many organisations, this significantly simplifies what can otherwise be a complex administrative process.

Considering hiring international talent?

International recruitment can help employers overcome skill shortages while bringing valuable expertise into their organisations.

With the right planning and compliance support, the process can be far more straightforward than many employers expect.

If your organisation is exploring international hiring, the team at FRS Recruitment can guide you through every stage — from permit applications to candidate relocation and placement.