Services
For employers
We support employers hiring non-EEA nationals, from reviewing the role and recruitment requirements to preparing the employment permit application with the candidate.
What this covers
- Checking a role against the occupation lists before you advertise it
- Whether a Labour Market Needs Test is needed, and what the advertising requirements are
- Reviewing the job description and contract against what the permit type requires
- The employer-side document checklist
- Coordinating supporting documents with the candidate
- A written timetable for the hiring manager to use when planning the start date
How we can help
Planning the permit application before recruitment begins helps you allow for advertising, document preparation and processing. We check the employer requirements and help you set a realistic timetable.
Understand which route applies
We explain the relevant routes and the documents each application requires.
Catch problems before submission
We check for missing documents and inconsistencies in names, dates and other details before you apply.
Organise your supporting evidence
We help you organise employment and residence records and identify documents you still need to obtain.
Prepare for submission
We explain the submission steps and review any outstanding questions with you.
How we work
Review
We discuss your plans, explain the application requirements and agree the support you need.
Prepare and check
We provide a checklist and review your documents, letting you know what is missing or needs clarification.
Submission and follow-up
We prepare the application for you to submit and help with further document requests within the agreed scope of work.
In more detail
Read about the requirements, fees and application process for each route, with links to official sources.
The Labour Market Needs Test
Advertising requirements, evidence and application deadlines for the Labour Market Needs Test.
Employer obligations for employment permits
Understand the employer duties that continue after a permit is granted.
Hiring process and timelines for non-EEA staff
Plan recruitment, permit and visa applications, travel and registration around a realistic start date.
Employment permit costs and quotas
Budget for permit fees and check quota roles before committing to a hire.
Planning the start date
The proposed start date should allow for the permit process and any visa application. Discuss these steps with the candidate before they make travel arrangements or leave their current employment.
We help you plan the application timetable before the offer is finalised.
Checking employer requirements
Employer requirements apply alongside the conditions for the role and candidate. We review the company information and staffing requirements before you begin the application.
Common questions
We are hiring our first non-EEA employee. Where do we start?
Start with the role, salary and employer requirements before advertising the job. We help you review the relevant permit types and establish whether a Labour Market Needs Test is required.
Who submits the permit application?
You or the employee submit the application. We prepare and check the documents, explain the submission process and help you organise any further information requested by the Department.