What is the Labour Market Needs Test and do I need one for a General Employment Permit?

The General Employment Permit is the main permit for roles outside the critical-skills shortage list, so the Labour Market Needs Test usually applies. This means the employer must advertise the vacancy through the State employment services and additional channels before the permit can be granted.

There are exemptions, for example where the salary is above a high threshold, where the role is endorsed by enterprise agencies, or in certain other defined situations. Unless one of those exemptions applies, the advertising step is a mandatory part of the process.