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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An Exchange Agreement Employment Permit in Ireland allows a foreign national to work in Ireland under a prescribed exchange programme or an international agreement to which Ireland is a party. This solicitor-handled service handles the Exchange Agreement Employment Permit application for personnel working in Ireland under bilateral exchange agreements, and for the Irish employers hosting them. A solicitor works through the application with you so the information and supporting documents are organised and consistent before submission.
What’s included
- A solicitor-handled Exchange Agreement Employment Permit application
- Self-complete template with guidance notes — you fill it in yourself
- Documents tailored to Irish law and your circumstances, delivered by email
- A written summary of the key points and anything you need to do afterwards
The price shown is the full professional fee for the service as described. Any third-party or State fees are listed separately where they apply.
Who this is for
- Participants in a recognised exchange programme who have an offer of employment in Ireland
- Irish employers hosting exchange personnel who want the application handled by a solicitor
- Applicants unsure whether their programme or agreement falls within this permit type
- Anyone who has had difficulty with an employment permit application before and wants a solicitor involved
How it works
- Complete a short questionnaire about the applicant, the exchange programme, the employer and the role, and upload any existing documents or correspondence.
- A solicitor would review your instructions, confirms the scope with you and raises any questions by email or phone.
- Your completed work is delivered by email, with plain-English notes on what to do next.
Frequently asked questions
How much does an Exchange Agreement Employment Permit application 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.
Who can apply for an Exchange Agreement Employment Permit?
The permit is for foreign nationals employed in Ireland under a prescribed exchange agreement or another international agreement to which Ireland is a party. Either the foreign national or the employer can apply. The maximum permit period depends on the agreement concerned.
Can a solicitor guarantee the outcome?
No. Decisions are made by the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment. A solicitor can help make sure your application is complete and properly presented, but no outcome can be guaranteed.
For more on permits, visas and citizenship, see our immigration and citizenship guide for Ireland.
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.

