How long is a General Employment Permit valid and can it be renewed?

A first General Employment Permit is typically issued for a period of up to two years. When that period ends, you can apply to renew it, and renewals can be granted for up to three further years.

This structure means you can work in Ireland on the permit for roughly five years in total. After five consecutive years of lawful employment, you may be able to apply for Stamp 4 long-term residency through the immigration authorities, which removes the need to keep renewing the permit.