Comprehensive side-by-side comparison for skilled workers planning to immigrate
Estimated annual tax burden including income tax, social contributions, and regional taxes
| 🇮🇪 Ireland | 🇬🇧 United Kingdom | |
|---|---|---|
| Gross Salary | EUR 55,556 | GBP 47,244 |
| Effective Tax Rate | 27.5% | 22.7% |
| Net (local) | EUR 40,261 | GBP 36,530 |
| Net (USD) | $43,482 | $46,393 |
| Social Contributions | PRSI 4% + USC 2–8% | National Insurance (8% on £12,570–£50,270) |
| Special Tax Rules | 0 | — |
For highly skilled workers in occupations on Ireland's Critical Skills list. Lower salary threshold (EUR 38,000) than General permit. Direct path to r…
The main route for skilled workers with a job offer. You need 70 points from mandatory and tradeable categories.
For leaders or potential leaders in science, engineering, humanities, medicine, digital technology, or arts/culture. No job offer needed.
| Requirement | 🇮🇪 Ireland | 🇬🇧 United Kingdom |
|---|---|---|
| Job Offer | Must have a full-time job offer from an Irish employer for 2+ years. | — |
| Salary | Critical Skills list: EUR 38,000+. All other eligible occupations: EUR 64,000+. | General threshold GBP 38,700/yr (2024). Some occupations on Shortage list have lower thresholds. |
| Qualifications | Relevant degree or higher qualification. Some roles accept experience. | — |
| Occupation | Must be on Critical Skills Occupation List or Eligible Occupation List (not on Ineligible list). | — |
| Language | English-speaking country — no formal test required for most applicants. | English B1 (IELTS 4.0+ each component) for Skilled Worker. Native English speakers from majority-English countries exempt. |
| Stamp 4 | After 2 years on Critical Skills permit, eligible for Stamp 4 (open work permission). | — |
| Skilled Worker | — | Job offer from licensed sponsor + 70 points + English B1 + salary above threshold (GBP 38,700 general, or going rate for occupation). |
| Global Talent | — | Endorsement from recognized body. For tech: evidence of being an exceptional talent or exceptional promise in digital technology. |
| Sponsorship | — | Employer must hold a valid sponsor licence. Check the register of licensed sponsors on gov.uk. |
| Health Surcharge | — | Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): GBP 1,035/year, paid upfront for the visa duration. |
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