Guide only — this matter needs a solicitor. Under Irish law this work must be carried out by a solicitor, so it is not sold on this site. The information below explains what is involved so you can brief a solicitor with confidence.
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The Dependant/Partner/Spouse Employment Permit in Ireland allows certain family members of employment permit holders to take up work in the State. This solicitor-handled service handles the application for family members of Critical Skills Employment Permit (CSEP) holders who want to work in Ireland. Since 2024, many spouses and partners of CSEP and General Employment Permit holders who hold Stamp 3 permission can move to Stamp 1G and work without a separate permit, so it is worth checking first whether this permit is still the right route for you.
What’s included
- A solicitor-handled application for the Dependant/Partner/Spouse Employment Permit
- Handling of the application for eligible family members of CSEP holders
Who this is for
- You are the spouse, civil partner or de facto partner of a CSEP holder and want to work in Ireland.
- You are a dependant of a CSEP holder and have been offered a job.
- You are unsure whether you need this permit or whether Stamp 1G applies to you.
- You want a solicitor to manage the application rather than applying yourself.
How it works
- Contact a solicitor of your choice — choose the service and place your order, or contact us if you’d like to confirm details first.
- Complete a short questionnaire — tell us about your situation and upload any documents that are relevant.
- A solicitor would review your matter
- Delivered by email — you receive the solicitor’s work by email, with follow-up arranged where needed.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a Dependant/Partner/Spouse Employment Permit cost in Ireland?
This page is a free guide — nothing on it is for sale. Solicitors set their own fees for this work and must give you a written costs estimate (a section 150 letter) before starting. Get quotes through the Law Society of Ireland’s Find a Solicitor directory.
Do spouses of Critical Skills permit holders need a work permit in Ireland?
Not always. Since May 2024, eligible spouses and partners holding Stamp 3 permission can generally move to Stamp 1G, which allows them to work without an employment permit. Dependants who are not covered by that change may still need this permit.
Who can apply for a Dependant/Partner/Spouse Employment Permit?
It is aimed at eligible dependants, partners and spouses of certain employment permit holders who are legally resident in Ireland. Eligibility depends on your permission and your relationship to the permit holder.
For more background, see our Immigration and citizenship in Ireland guide.
If you would like to be told when solicitor services are available again on this site, you can join our no-fee waiting list. To instruct a solicitor now, use the Law Society of Ireland’s Find a Solicitor directory.