Ireland’s Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment (DETE) has taken a significant step in modernizing its immigration framework with the launch of a new digital platform—Employment Permits Online (EPO). Officially rolled out on April 28, 2025, the platform replaces the previous employment permit system and aims to streamline the permit application process for both employers and foreign workers.
The introduction of EPO reflects a broader trend toward digital transformation within Ireland’s immigration infrastructure. Designed to improve efficiency, transparency, and user accessibility, the new platform mandates the use of two-factor authentication, facilitates electronic signatures, and allows users to track the status of applications in real time.
From now on, all new Employment Permit applications must be submitted through this platform. Additionally, applications that were already submitted and still pending prior to the shutdown of the old system have reportedly been migrated automatically to EPO. However, any unsubmitted drafts were not transferred and must be re-entered manually.
As with most new digital rollouts, initial technical challenges have been observed. Given the large volume of applications processed through the platform, delays are expected, particularly in the early stages. Reports suggest that employers have encountered minor bugs, user interface difficulties, and disruptions during submission.
The DETE is aware of these issues and is said to be actively working on resolving them. Applicants are advised to be patient and ensure all documents are ready to facilitate a smoother transition into the new process.
The launch of EPO follows several recent initiatives by Ireland to digitize its immigration services, including:
These upgrades signal the government’s commitment to modernizing its immigration systems, enhancing service delivery, and reducing administrative burdens for both public institutions and applicants.
Pros:
Cons:
A New Era of Employment Permit Processing
The introduction of EPO reflects a broader trend toward digital transformation within Ireland’s immigration infrastructure. Designed to improve efficiency, transparency, and user accessibility, the new platform mandates the use of two-factor authentication, facilitates electronic signatures, and allows users to track the status of applications in real time.
From now on, all new Employment Permit applications must be submitted through this platform. Additionally, applications that were already submitted and still pending prior to the shutdown of the old system have reportedly been migrated automatically to EPO. However, any unsubmitted drafts were not transferred and must be re-entered manually.
Key Features and Changes
- Two-Factor Authentication: Enhanced security protocols are now mandatory for all users.
- Electronic Signatures: Applicants and employers can sign documents digitally.
- Application Tracking: Users can follow the status of their applications step-by-step.
- Data Migration: Pending applications were moved to the new system, but unsubmitted drafts must be recreated.
- Registration Requirement: Employers are required to register on the platform and provide documentation before submitting applications.
Implementation Hurdles and Delays
As with most new digital rollouts, initial technical challenges have been observed. Given the large volume of applications processed through the platform, delays are expected, particularly in the early stages. Reports suggest that employers have encountered minor bugs, user interface difficulties, and disruptions during submission.
The DETE is aware of these issues and is said to be actively working on resolving them. Applicants are advised to be patient and ensure all documents are ready to facilitate a smoother transition into the new process.
Broader Context: Ireland’s Digital Immigration Push
The launch of EPO follows several recent initiatives by Ireland to digitize its immigration services, including:
- The online renewal process for Irish Residence Permit (IRP) cards
- A Digital Contact Centre for immigration-related self-service
- An online system for De Facto Partnership permission applications
These upgrades signal the government’s commitment to modernizing its immigration systems, enhancing service delivery, and reducing administrative burdens for both public institutions and applicants.
Pros and Cons Summary
Pros:
Improved transparency and user control via real-time application tracking- Enhanced data security through two-factor authentication
- More efficient submissions with electronic signatures and digital document management
- Centralized platform that aligns with other national digital immigration initiatives
Cons:
Initial system bugs and performance issues may hinder user experience- Delays likely during the platform’s early adoption phase
- Employers must re-submit untransferred draft applications
- Mandatory registration and setup adds extra steps for new users
