Atypical Working Scheme
Workers needed for short, specialist or atypical jobs of up to 90 days that fall outside the permit system.
The Atypical Working Scheme is a Irish work & skilled visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~€250) and processing time (~20 working days), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Atypical Working Scheme is for
Workers needed for short, specialist or atypical jobs of up to 90 days that fall outside the permit system.
No pathway to residence; for short-term work only.
Atypical Working Scheme - eligibility criteria
- Role lasts less than 90 days and is specialist or atypical
- Job not suitable for a standard employment permit
- Sponsoring Irish host organisation identified
- Meet any salary or qualification requirements for the role
- Visa-required nationals also obtain the relevant entry visa
Atypical Working Scheme cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Atypical Working Scheme (Ireland) is ~€250, with an indicative processing time of ~20 working days. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Irish Immigration Service.
| Type | Short-term work |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Online to ISD (Atypical Working Scheme unit) |
| Length of stay | Up to 90 days |
| Work rights | Specific short-term role approved under the scheme |
| Study rights | Not the purpose of the scheme |
| Government fee | ~€250 |
| Processing time | ~20 working days |
| Route to PR | No pathway to residence; for short-term work only. |
Pathway & next steps
No pathway to residence; for short-term work only.
Many applicants also compare GEP · General Employment Permit, C Visa · Short Stay 'C' Visa, Van der Elst · Van der Elst Visa. Run a free VisaChief check to see which Irish route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Atypical Working Scheme pitfalls we fix
Atypical Working Scheme - frequently asked questions
How much does the Atypical Working Scheme cost?
The Atypical Working Scheme government fee is ~€250. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Irish Immigration Service before applying.
How long does the Atypical Working Scheme take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~20 working days. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Atypical Working Scheme lead to permanent residence?
No pathway to residence; for short-term work only.
Can I work on the Atypical Working Scheme?
Work rights: Specific short-term role approved under the scheme.
Who can apply for the Atypical Working Scheme?
Workers needed for short, specialist or atypical jobs of up to 90 days that fall outside the permit system.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Ireland government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Irish Immigration Service - official Ireland immigration authority