English-speaking EU hub for tech and pharma; the Critical Skills permit leads to open residence in two years.
Permanent residence: 2 years. Critical Skills permit holders move to Stamp 4 (work without a permit) after 2 years; long-term residence after 5.
Citizenship: 5 years. 5 years of reckonable residence within the last 9 years.
| Route | Valid for | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Critical Skills Employment Permit For roles on the Critical Skills Occupations List, or any role above the higher salary threshold. Family can join straight away. | 2 years | — |
| General Employment Permit For most other roles above the minimum salary; the employer usually runs a labour market test first. | Up to 2 years, renewable | — |
| Study visa For admitted students; graduates can stay 1–2 years to work under the Stamp 1G scheme. | Length of the course | — |