The CSO has been tracking this figure since the year 1987. So far, the specific immigration statistics in 2007 is substantially higher than any other figure since 1987. On the other hand, even the emigration from Ireland has increased, according to the CSO figures. The statistics show that in the year 2007, there were about 42,200 people leaving the country. It has been the highest record since the early 1990s.

Though statistics for immigration continues to grow, the net migration has fallen. It reached a record high of 71,800 back in April 2006 and has declined to 67,300 in April 2007. However, the population in Ireland continues to grow with natural increase of 38,800 for April 2007. Add to that the net migration in the same year and you get the population increase of 106,100. It brings the total population of the country to about 4.34 million in the same period. With those statistics in mind, you will notice how almost two-thirds of the increase came from immigration.

Almost half of the immigrants or 48 percent were nationals of the new members of the European Union who joined between 2004 and 2007. More than half of the immigrants in 2007 were between 25 and 44 years of age. There were also those aged between 15 and 24 years of age who took up 28 percent of the figure.

Starting in the 1990s, Ireland’s immigration had started to increase due to the growth in economic conditions and attractive immigration services. As compared to other migration destinations, Ireland is deemed to have a less complicated process in immigration. This has attracted a number of migrants from all over the globe. At the same time, the country’s low unemployment rate and low crime rates have helped boost the immigrant applications. The excellent working conditions, outstanding education, and healthcare that Ireland has to offer have continuously drawn foreign workers to the country.

The rich culture and history of Ireland as well as its sense of national identity has proven effective in recruiting foreign nationals to become part of the nation. Ireland is part of the European Economic Area or EEA countries. Being part of the EEA, other member countries do not need work permits to work in Ireland. However, non-members of EEA will have to obtain an appropriate permit from the Irish government.

Aside from the Irish work permits, Irish green card, and Intra-Company transfer work visas that Ireland has to offer, the country also requires visit visas for non-members of the EEA. The Irish visit visas are valid for 3 months upon entry. Visit visas do not allow individuals to work in the country.