Publication
Renewal of an Employment Permit: Health Care Assistant
From Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment
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In June 2021 the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment provided access to the General Employment Permit for the role of Health Care Assistant. The framework agreed with the Department of Health included the requirement for the employment to offer a remuneration level of €27,000 or more and for the permit holder to achieve a relevant Level 5 Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) qualification after two years employment in the State.
The department has been engaged with the Department of Health regarding the requirement to ensure individuals working as Health Care Assistants have developed the skills and range of qualifications at the time of renewal of their general employment permit. This new approach agreed allows Health Care Assistants in possession of other relevant health and social care qualifications, comparable to a Level 5 QQI, be deemed to have met the skills and proficiency requirements for the renewal of their general employment permit.
The process will require the clinical lead in the healthcare facility to certify that the individual has demonstrated their technical ability, qualifications, and suitability to the Health Care Assistant role during their employment. The clinical lead, employee and employer will need to complete the required form and submit this to the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment as part of the application process for the renewal of the general employment permit.
For all Health Care Assistants who have obtained the relevant Level 5 QQI qualification, please proceed with the standard renewal process.
All other Health Care Assistants who have not attained Level 5 QQI, please download the below form and submit it through the Employment Permits Operations System (EPOS) along with the renewal documents. Please ensure to complete the form in its entirety.
