HCAs, Home Carers and Care
Workers

Ireland's health and social care sector depends on international workers, and healthcare assistants (HCAs), home support workers and care workers can be employed on a General Employment Permit. Because of shortages in these roles, a reduced minimum salary applies: €32,691 a year from 1 March 2026, with a minimum hourly rate of €16.12. The government plans to phase out the reduced rate by 2030, so salaries for new permits and renewals will rise in stages. Apart from the salary, the normal General Employment Permit rules apply. Employers usually need to complete a Labour Market Needs Test, at least half of their staff must be EEA nationals, and care worker and home carer permits have been issued within quotas. HCAs are expected to hold a QQI Level 5 qualification in health care support or an equivalent. Holders register on Stamp 1, can change employer within the same occupation after 9 months and, like other GEP holders, can bring a spouse after 12 months if their income meets the threshold.

A spouse or partner can usually join after 12 months' legal work with gross income over €30,000 a year, and gets Stamp 1G to work. Bringing children needs a higher income, starting at about €50,200 a year (gross) for one child.

After 9 months with the first employer, they can apply to change employer within the same occupation.

Not as an HCA. Nurses registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland can qualify for the Critical Skills route, which we also offer.

The care-related role must suit the worker's training and experience. We'll check the qualifications and references DETE is likely to expect for the specific job.