The new Irish Work Permit Application System has replaced the current EPOS portal with a new online portal that will make the application process easier. Find out what has changed in the application process, including the need for user registration, improved security, and new features for tracking application status and e-signatures

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On 28 April 2025, the Irish Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment (DETE) officially launched a new digital platform for applying for work permits – Employment Permits Online (EPO). It replaces the previous Irish Work Permits Online Application System (EPOS), which was decommissioned in mid-April 2025.

Everything we know so far about the Employment Permits Online (EPO) system is set out in this article.

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How has the process for applying for a work permit in Ireland changed?

- A single platform for all applicants

All employers, employees and agents are now required to use the new EPO system for all new work permit applications.

- New features

1. Two-factor authentication – provides increased user security.

2. E-signature capability – simplifies the submission of documents.

3. Real-time application status tracking.

Important! Despite the technical updates, the document requirements and application confirmation remain the same. Applicants must continue to prepare and submit the same supporting documents as under the previous system.

How do I register in the new Irish residence permit application system?

Employers will need to complete an initial registration in the new system by providing the appropriate documentation before they can submit applications. This process involves the following steps:

Step 1 – Create a company account.

Step 2 – Provide the required documentation from the company.

Step 3 – Wait for the system to approve before proceeding.

Important! Incomplete registration may delay the submission of permits.

What happened to old applications?

If you applied for a work permit before the previous system was decommissioned, please note the following:

- All applications that were in the process of being processed have been automatically transferred to the new EPO platform.

- Draft or incomplete applications have not been saved - they will need to be created anew in the new system.

Possible difficulties in the operation of the new system

It is expected that the system may operate intermittently at the start due to high workload and technical adjustments. The first errors have already been identified, which are causing some employers to experience difficulties in submitting applications. Immigration law firms are currently working closely with DETE to identify problems and minimise disruptions to the processing times of applications.

Why are these changes important for foreign workers?

Ireland continues to actively attract qualified specialists from around the world - particularly in the IT, medical and engineering sectors. The introduction of the new EPO platform for work permits is an important step towards simplifying and increasing transparency in the process.

However, foreign workers should be aware of possible delays at the initial stage and should keep a close eye on updates.

Benefits of the new Irish work permit application system

With the new system, foreign workers will be able to benefit from improved security features, track the status of their application in real time, verify their details and sign applications electronically.

The government will provide further updates, including video tutorials, detailed instructions and a frequently asked questions document to make the new system easier to use.

The launch of the new EPO system marks a significant breakthrough in the digitalisation of the work permit process in Ireland. Both employers and applicants are advised to register in advance, monitor official notices and seek assistance from immigration professionals if necessary.

Get advice from a migration lawyer to find out all the requirements for employment in Ireland.

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As a reminder! If you want to work in Ireland, you need to have a work permit, which is issued by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment (DETE). Given the current shortage of workers in the country, the local authorities have significantly simplified the procedure for obtaining a permit. We have already told you what has changed for expats in Ireland.