Visas & residency

Moving to Ireland is an exciting prospect for many, whether you are drawn by the tech hubs of Dublin, the rugged beauty of the Atlantic coast, or the country's famous hospitality. However, navigating the legal requirements for entry and stay is a crucial first step. As of early 2026, Ireland continues to operate a robust immigration system that distinguishes between short term visitors and those seeking to build a life in the Emerald Isle.


Entering Ireland: The Initial Steps

If you are a citizen of the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA), or the United Kingdom, you enjoy the right to live and work in Ireland with minimal bureaucracy. For those from "visa required" countries outside these zones, the process begins with an application through the AVATS online system.

Short Stay (C) Visas

These are intended for visits of up to 90 days. They are common for tourism, short business meetings, or visiting family. You cannot work on a C visa, and you must leave the country before it expires.

Long Stay (D) Visas

If you plan to stay for more than 90 days to work, study, or join a family member, you must apply for a D visa. This serves as your "pre-entry" clearance. Once you arrive, the real work of establishing residency begins.


Working in Ireland: Employment Permits

For most non-EEA nationals, residency is tied to a job. The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment (DETE) manages these permits.

Permit Type

Best For

Key Requirement (March 2026)

Critical Skills

High-demand roles like ICT, Engineering, or Nursing.

Minimum salary of €40,904 (for roles on the list).

General Employment

A broad range of occupations not on the "ineligible" list.

Minimum salary of €36,605.

Hosting Agreement

Academics and researchers.

Contract with a recognized research institution.

Note: On March 1, 2026, new salary thresholds took effect. Ensure your job offer meets these updated minimums to avoid a permit refusal.


The "Stamp" System: Understanding Your Status

Ireland uses a "Stamp" system to define what you are allowed to do while resident. These stamps are recorded on your Irish Residence Permit (IRP) card.

  • Stamp 0: For people of independent means (retirees) or elderly dependent relatives. You cannot work or access state benefits.

  • Stamp 1: For those with an employment permit or business permission.

  • Stamp 1G: Specifically for graduates of Irish universities looking for work or spouses of Critical Skills permit holders.

  • Stamp 2: For full-time students. You can work up to 20 hours a week during term time.

  • Stamp 3: For volunteers or ministers of religion. Generally, you cannot work.

  • Stamp 4: The "gold standard" of temporary residency. It allows you to work for any employer or be self-employed without a separate permit.


Registration and the IRP Card

Once you arrive in Ireland on a Long Stay visa or if you are from a non-visa-required country staying over 90 days, you must register with Immigration Service Delivery (ISD).

If you live in Dublin, this is done via an online renewal or a first-time appointment at the Burgh Quay office. If you live outside Dublin, you must visit your local Garda (police) registration office. You will be required to pay a registration fee (currently €300) and provide biometric data. Following this, you will receive your IRP card by post. This card is your proof of legal residence and must be carried if you travel abroad and return to Ireland.


Pathways to Permanent Residency and Citizenship

After five years of "reckonable residence" (time spent on stamps like 1 or 4), you may apply for Long Term Residency. This usually grants you a Stamp 4 for five years.

Alternatively, many residents choose to apply for Naturalization. To become an Irish citizen, you generally need to show that you have been resident in the state for five out of the previous nine years, including a continuous year of residence immediately before your application.


Important Websites

For the most accurate and up to date information, always consult official government sources:

  • Immigration Service Delivery (ISD): irishimmigration.ie – The primary portal for all residency and visa rules.

  • Department of Enterprise (DETE): enterprise.gov.ie – For details on work permits and salary thresholds.

  • Citizens Information: citizensinformation.ie – A highly reliable, plain-English guide to Irish law and rights.

  • AVATS Online: visas.inis.gov.ie – The portal for starting your visa application.



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