Livida Sport: A Global Guide to Football Transfers - Second Edition - Manual / Resource - Page 94
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Immigration Rules
The employment visa issued for an initial two-year period, supported by a Sports and
Cultural Employment Permit (SCEP), is the main route for non-EU athletes and coaches
taking up employment in Ireland. The SCEP can be applied for by the relevant club or by
the player. An applicant should be 18 years or older, although it may be possible to
obtain an employment permit for those aged 16 years and upwards. If the player is
granted an employment permit for the first time, they are expected to stay with the initial
Irish club for a period of nine months, unless the season ends in that time. UK and EEA
nationals are exempt from Irish immigration rules.
Player Requirements
Relevant qualifications, skills and experience.
A letter of support from the Football Association of Ireland.
A signed employment contract with an Irish club that complies with the national
minimum wage.
Dependents
Family members of a SCEP holder can only join the player after they have legally worked
in Ireland for one year. Dependents include the spouse, children under 18, and children
up to 23 if they are in full-time education and remain dependent on the SCEP holder.
Dependents are granted residence permits for the duration of the player’s permit but
must apply separately for a work permit if they wish to work in Ireland.
Applications
Visa application processing times vary depending on where the applicant is coming
from. After five years, SCEP holders can apply for permanent residency.
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