Ireland is not in the Schengen area and runs its own employment-permit system, separate from the EU permit framework used on the continent. EU and EEA citizens still work freely.
The employment-permit system
Non-EEA workers generally need an employment permit issued by the relevant department, with eligibility tied to occupation lists rather than the EU Blue Card model.
Critical Skills vs General
The flagship is the Critical Skills Employment Permit, aimed at in-demand occupations, with a faster path to long-term residence and family reunification. The General Employment Permit covers a wider range of jobs but with more conditions, including a labour-market needs test for many roles.
Residence stamps
Permission to remain is recorded through immigration "stamps", which set what the holder may do and for how long.
For employers and individuals
Whether a role is on the critical-skills list changes the whole pathway. A verified Irish colleague can confirm eligibility and handle the permit and registration.
Occupation lists and rules change — confirm with admitted Irish counsel.