If you’re an employer in Ireland seeking to hire a non-EEA national on a General Employment Permit, you’ll likely be required to complete the Labour Market Needs Test (LMNT). This test is a key component of Ireland’s employment permit system, ensuring that job opportunities are first offered to Irish and EU/EEA nationals before employers seek workers from outside the European Economic Area.
At Expert Consultants, we help businesses and applicants understand and navigate the Labour Market Needs Test process. Whether you’re a first-time employer or an overseas applicant, our team ensures your LMNT meets all legal and procedural requirements, helping to avoid delays or refusals in your employment permit application.
This guide outlines what the Labour Market Needs Test is, who must complete it, how to advertise the role correctly, and what to do once the test is completed.
You can also visit our page on the Trusted Partner Initiative to learn how it simplifies and accelerates the employment permit process for eligible employers in Ireland.
What Is the Labour Market Needs Test?
The Labour Market Needs Test (LMNT) is a mandatory job advertising requirement for employers in Ireland who wish to hire non-EEA nationals through a General Employment Permit or Contract for Services Employment Permit.
The goal of the LMNT is to protect the Irish and EU labour markets by ensuring:
Only after passing this test can an employer apply for an employment permit for a non-EEA national.
When Is the Labour Market Needs Test Required?
The LMNT is generally required when applying for:
It is not required for:
If you’re unsure whether an LMNT is required in your case, Expert Consultants can confirm based on your job role and permit type.
How to Conduct the Labour Market Needs Test: Step-by-Step
1
Advertise on the Department of Social Protection Website
The vacancy must be published on the JobsIreland.ie platform, operated by the Department of Social Protection, for at least 4 weeks.
The ad must include:
2
Advertise in Online Platform or Job Advertisement Websites for atleast 3 days.
You must also advertise the position in one local newspaper or recruitment website for at least 3 days.
Examples include:
The job must be clearly visible and active during the advertising period.
1
Advertise on the Department of Social Protection Website
The vacancy must be published on the JobsIreland.ie platform, operated by the Department of Social Protection, for at least 4 weeks.
The ad must include:
2
Advertise in Online Platform or Job Advertisement Websites for atleast 3 days.
You must also advertise the position in one local newspaper or recruitment website for at least 3 days.
Examples include:
The job must be clearly visible and active during the advertising period.
What Documents Are Required After Advertising?
Once the advertising period ends, the employer must prepare:
These documents are submitted with the employment permit application to prove compliance with the LMNT.
At Expert Consultants, we assist employers in gathering and presenting these documents clearly and accurately to avoid rejections or delays.
Exceptions and Exemptions
You may be exempt from the Labour Market Needs Test if:
We help clients determine if they qualify for any exemptions and how to proceed accordingly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
These errors can lead to permit refusals. With Expert Consultants, you’ll receive step-by-step guidance to complete the LMNT correctly from the start.
Why Expert Consultants?
Your Pathway to a Successful Work Visa in Ireland
At Expert Consultants, we help businesses and individuals navigate the Irish immigration and employment permit system with clarity and confidence. Our services include:
Determining if the Labour Market Needs Test is required
We assess your case to confirm if the LMNT applies to your job role.
Drafting compliant job advertisements
Professionally written job ads that meet all Department of Enterprise criteria.
Coordinating ad placements in online platforms and websites
We manage ad publication across approved platforms to ensure compliance.
Preparing documentary proof of compliance
Full support in compiling evidence to satisfy LMNT requirements.
Submitting permit applications and appeals
End-to-end handling of permit submissions and follow-up appeals if needed.
Providing legal and immigration advice for non-EEA hires
Expert advice to employers on hiring and retaining non-EEA talent legally.
Our team ensures your application meets every requirement and is submitted correctly—so you can focus on hiring the right talent.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Get Expert Help with Your Labour Market Needs Test Today
If you’re planning to hire a non-EEA worker in Ireland, conducting the Labour Market Needs Test properly is a crucial step in securing an employment permit. Mistakes in advertising or documentation can result in unnecessary delays or rejections.
Let Expert Consultants assist you from start to finish. Visit to schedule a consultation and complete your Labour Market Needs Test with professional support and full compliance.