The Government has announced major changes to immigration rules for doctors from outside the European Economic Area.
The new system will benefit up to 1,800 doctors by granting them additional rights and reducing the administrative burden that they currently face.
From now on, most non-EEA doctors already in Ireland for between two and five years with a General Employment Permit may apply for a new permission granting them the right to work without a permit.
Their spouses or partners will also receive permission allowing them to work.
Currently these doctors must have been present and working in the State for five years to qualify.
Doctors who have been working here for more than two years will immediately be able to access a Stamp 4 permit and spousal work rights.
Stamp 4 offers the right to work without preconditions.
The Government said the new scheme will make Ireland a much more attractive location for doctors.
Making the announcement, Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise Leo Varadkar said he understood the frustrations of many non-EEA doctors who come to Ireland.
"They are not given the same opportunities and it is hard for them to get on specialist training schemes and then apply for consultant posts. Many want to stay in Ireland and build their careers and raise their families here. We make it too hard for them and many move on to other Western countries," he said.
"Today I'm delighted to announce further changes that will make it easier for doctors to get on the pathway to residency and to give their spouse an unlimited right to work," Mr Varadkar added.
Under the new system, the Department of Justice says that doctors will in future only need to renew their permission annually instead of every six months.
The changes mean doctors can avail of an immigration permission that allows them to remain in the State and work without the need to apply for additional employment permits, in most cases.
Their spouses or partners will also become eligible to work.
Doctors from outside the EEA have welcomed the changes.
Dr Liqa ur Rehman, co-founder and president of the 'Train Us for Ireland' campaign group, described the announcement as "great news".
"This is historic news for doctors and their families who want to make Ireland their home," he said.
"The problems for many years regarding visas, the right to work and social instability have been addressed today.
"My colleagues are describing this a great reward for their services during the pandemic," he said.
