The Irish DETE has announced phased increases to employment permit salary thresholds, with the first changes taking effect from 1 March 2026. The new roadmap outlines how Minimum Annual Remuneration (MAR) will increase gradually across employment permit types through 2030.
The announcement was made by Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke and Minister of State Alan Dillon, following a review of the Government’s previous salary threshold plan.
What Is Minimum Annual Remuneration (MAR)?
Minimum Annual Remuneration (MAR) is the minimum salary that must be paid to a non-EEA national for an Irish employment permit to be issued or renewed.
Each MAR also has an associated hourly rate based on a standard 39 hour week, both of which must be met to remain compliant with Irish employment permit rules.
Employment Permit Salary Changes from 1 March 2026
From 1 March 2026, the following employment permit salary thresholds in Ireland will apply:
- General Employment Permit (GEP)
Minimum salary will increase from €34,000 to €36,605
- Critical Skills Employment Permit (CSEP)
Minimum salary will increase from €38,000 to €40,904
- Healthcare and agri-food roles (including healthcare assistants, home carers, meat processors and horticultural workers)
Minimum salary will increase from €30,000 to €32,691
A Phased MAR Increase Through to 2030
The new roadmap replaces the previous plan to complete salary increases by 2026. Following public consultation and feedback from employers, permit holders and worker advocacy groups, the Government opted for a more gradual approach through 2030.
Under the revised plan:
- General and Critical Skills Employment Permit salary thresholds will rise by 7.66% in March 2026, rather than increases of up to 15.8% previously proposed
- Lower, sub-standard MAR thresholds, particularly in healthcare and agri-food, will be fully phased out by 2030
- Businesses are given additional time to plan for higher salary requirements, while continuing to improve pay standards for migrant workers
Full details of the roadmap are available on the Government’s official website;
Employment Permits Minimum Annual Remuneration: Outcome of the Roadmap Review 2025
Staying Informed on Employment Permit Changes in Ireland
As employment permit salary thresholds continue to evolve, Crewit will be sharing updates and insights as new changes are announced, helping employers and candidates stay informed and prepared.
For full and official details on the Minimum Annual Remuneration (MAR) roadmap, you can read more directly from the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment:
https://enterprise.gov.ie/en/news-and-events/department-news/2025/december/20251202.html
Keep an eye on our website for the latest updates on employment permits, visa policies and workforce mobility in Ireland.
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