Ireland•Europe12-15 weeks
EUR €500–€1,000
Varies by filing options
Up to 7 months
Renewable
Renewal
Renewable
Family
No dependents
PR Pathway
None
Sponsor
Job offer required
Work
Remote not required
Pilot seasonal work permit for non-EEA horticultural operatives at one of six approved Irish employers, valid 14 April to 13 November.
Ireland's Seasonal Employment Permit (SEP) is a pilot scheme under S.I. 33/2025, commenced 19 February 2025. It lets non-EEA nationals work as horticultural operatives in soft fruit or vegetable growing for up to seven months each year, within a fixed window of 14 April to 13 November. Minimum annualised pay is €30,000 (€14.79/hour, at least 30 hours/week).
Permits go only to workers of a designated Approved Seasonal Employer — capped at six employers per year, each needing €1.5m turnover and arranging accommodation plus health insurance at no cost. The scheme caps issuance at 200 permits/season. Standard DETE fees apply (€500 up to 6 months; €1,000 up to 24 months) and the employer files via Employment Permits Online.
This visa is ideal for non-EEA workers wanting short, lawful seasonal horticulture jobs with a small pool of pre-approved Irish growers. It is unsuitable for anyone seeking residency, family reunification or work outside the horticulture window.
Must be employed by an Approved Seasonal Employer (max 6 employers approved per year)
Role must be horticultural operative in soft fruit or vegetable growing
Minimum annual remuneration €30,000 (€14.79/hour)
Minimum 30 working hours per week
Employment period 14 April to 13 November each year
Employer must provide accommodation, training and health insurance at no cost to the worker
Min. Income
30,000 EUR/yr
Signed employment contract with Approved Seasonal Employer
Valid passport
Evidence of employer's Approved Seasonal Employer status
Evidence of accommodation arrangements provided by the employer
Evidence of health insurance arrangements provided by the employer
| Employment Permits Online (EP Online) | Fill online |
Discover how your answers compare with the published requirements. 2 minutes. Free to use.
Start Visa Discovery