Work Permit...written by Shady

I am a native of Cameroon,West Africa.I came here in Ireland 5 years ago to work.

In my years,job was easy to find.You can even apply for it while you are not physically present in the state.In my case,it was my elder brother who applied it on my behalf.He submitted my CV with his name and address as the contact person.I was still in Cameroon that time working as a cleaner in the bank.The company then asked him to forward my documents necessary for the work permit application.It was approved immediately and I was ready to fly and leave my country.Upon arriving here,company's staffs/personnels were all so nice and kind.They've provided me with an accommodation and greeted me with a warmth welcome.My brother was in Galway which is 4 hours drive from Dublin,so it is not possible to live with him.Indeed,I am very happy.

But not up to a year passed,when the work permit issue seems to tighten up.They have set limitations.It could have been there,I may not know it.I managed to apply for my cousin who was that time in Cameroon,the same with my situation and we only have a year gap,he followed me.

2004 when I met my wife.She has to stay in her country for 2 years before I can invite her here.Confident enough that I can get her a job,I immediately applied her in our hotel as soon as she arrives.Things were rough and heaven is not at our side, when they've said she doesn't qualify for a spousal work permit the reason because I am not highly skilled like doctors,nurses,engrs. and etc whom they've given priority.

As a non-national,I really don't know such rules.I have my brother who envited his wife,gave birth and was automatically exempted from requiring a work permit to work.Both of them.But then,they've changed that law.January 01,2005 all children born in Ireland are not automatically granted the citizenship.They have to first,check if the parents have qualify the habitual residency which takes up to 4 years of continually residing here.So,that's another problem.Even if we have our baby,still my wife couldn't work.While waiting for the law to again change,I decided my wife to stay and maybe plan for our baby.

June the same year,they announced that they are going to change the law.That all spouses of work permit holder will be given the chance to work.No more high-skilled concerns.But that will only take effect by February next year(2007),huh!

Now were here,2007.We have a baby and no more worries.If my wife is ready to apply for a job,as long as the employer is willing to apply a work permit for her,then that will be better.