The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment (DETE) has announced that the planned increases to the Minimum Annual Remuneration (MAR) for most employment permits, which had been expected to come into effect from January 2025, have been deferred pending the outcome of a further review.
The minimum remuneration required for most employment permits was increased in January 2024 as part of a broader salary roadmap review targeting remuneration adjustments over a 5 year period. While the initial adjustments were expected, the level of the increases for some employment permits coupled with the increased cost of doing business in Ireland, has posed numerous challenges for many employers over the past year. As a result of these concerns, the further planned increases to remuneration thresholds, scheduled for January 2025, have now been deferred pending the outcome of a review and consultation process currently being undertaken by the DETE.
Current salary thresholds will remain in place until the review and consultation process concludes, ensuring stability for employers and permit holders while future adjustments are considered. There are some exceptions, including those for care workers, healthcare assistants and home carers, where previously deferred increases will now be implemented as planned in January 2025 however, for all other occupations, the current levels remain unchanged.
While the deferral of MAR increases is welcome news for employers, particularly in light of the significant increases introduced less than 12 months ago, it is envisaged that this is just a temporary pause rather than a permanent freeze. Employers will need to continue to implement reviews and audits of their current remuneration structures and budgets with a view to future proofing their immigration policies and talent strategies. Vialto Partners can support your business in navigating the updated requirements and provide tailored guidance to align your workforce planning with these changes.
For a deeper discussion on the above, please reach out to your Vialto Partners point of contact, or alternatively:
Aoife Kilmurray
Director
Lindsay Tester
Senior Manager
Fergus English
Manager
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