Visa Options for pharmacists to work in Ireland

Introduction:

Pharmacists who are looking to work in Ireland must go through the work permit process as part of their pathway.

There are primarily two different work permits for pharmacists to practice in Ireland according to different employment needs:

• The General Employment Permit and

• The Critical Skills Employment Permit.

Below, are the details regarding the application process, processing time and fees associated with each permit.

The General Employment Permit

The General Employment Permit is basically for non-EEA and non-Swiss nationals who have received a job offer in Ireland. The General Employment Permit allows the employers to fill specific roles that are not on the “Ineligible List of Occupations.”

• Eligibility: Available for a broad range of occupations like pharmacists, except those who are mentioned ineligible.

• Duration: Initially this visa is granted for two years, with an option for extension too.

• Employer Requirements: The Employers must put forth that they have advertised the job in Ireland and the EEA but have not a suitable candidates or applicants.

Application Process:

1. Firstly, the candidate needs to submit an online application through the Employment Permits Online System (EPOS).

2. Second, the candidate must ensure that the job offer is valid for at least two years.

3. The candidate must provide evidence that the job was advertised within Ireland and the EEA for the required duration.

4. Must attach the necessary documents, like:

• A job offer letter.

• Proof of qualifications.

• Relevant fees.

Processing Times:

• This may take typically around 3 to 6 weeks to process, though this may vary depending on the volume of applications.

Fees:

• A fee of €1,000 for permits valid up to 24 months.

• A fee of €500 for permits lasting 6 months or less.

Critical Skills Employment Permit

The Critical Skills Employment Permit is for attracting highly skilled professionals like to Ireland. Pharmacists frequently qualify under this permit due to the demand for healthcare professionals in Ireland.

Key Features:

• Professions Targeted: This ideally focuses on roles that are critical to Ireland’s economic growth.

• Family Reunification: Enables a fast track for family members to join permit holders.

• Residency Pathway: Offers a route to long-term residency through the Stamp 4 visa after two years.

Process of Application:

1. An online application should be submitted through EPOS.

2. Make sure that the job offer is for a minimum of two years.

3. All the necessary documentation should be attached:

• A proof of pharmacy qualification.

• A valid job offer from an employer.

• A payment of the relevant fees.

Time for Processing:

• The processing takes around 2 to 9 weeks, which depends on the application and the current volume.

Fees:

• A fee of €1,000 must be paid for permits lasting up to 24 months.

Critical Skills Employment Permit Key Benefits Include:

• Streamlined Residency Path: Pharmacists can apply for a Stamp 4 visa after two years of holding the permit, which allows employment without a work permit.

• Enhanced Opportunities for Families: The permit holders can be accompanied by dependents, and a separate work permit would not be required.

• Recognition of Pharmacists: The inclusion of pharmacists in the Critical Skills list highlights their importance in addressing Ireland’s healthcare needs.

Conclusion:

The General Employment Permit and Critical Skills Employment Permit, both permits, offer feasible pathways for pharmacists who are willing to practice in Ireland. The General Employment Permit is more general or widely applicable, whereas the Critical Skills Employment Permit provides some additional benefits, like expedited family reunification and a pathway to long-term residency. By having an awareness of all the details regarding the application requirements, the processing times, and the fees, the pharmacists can be better prepared to move to Ireland.

For more information and to begin your application, visit the official Employment Permits Online System (EPOS).

Or contact Elite Expertise which is an online education training platform that trains the candidates willing to move to Australia & New Zealand, Canada, and Ireland via their respective licensure exams like OPRA, PEBC and PSI equivalence and guides you through your entire process.