Types of Residency in Ireland
Foreign nationals moving to Ireland have a few options for residency, depending on their circumstances. The most common types of residency permits are:
Stamp 0
A Stamp 0 is a residency permit for those who do not intend to work or study in Ireland. This includes those who wish to retire in Ireland, those who have independent means, or those who are dependent on an Irish resident.
Stamp 1
A Stamp 1 is a residency permit for those who are employed in Ireland. This includes people on work permits and green cards, as well as those who have been transferred to an Irish branch of their company.
Stamp 2
A Stamp 2 is a residency permit for those who are studying in Ireland. This includes people on study visas, as well as those who have been accepted to an Irish university or other educational institution.
Stamp 3
A Stamp 3 is a residency permit for those who wish to stay in Ireland for longer than 90 days, but who do not intend to work or study. This includes retired people, dependents of Irish residents, and people who wish to live in Ireland without working.
Stamp 4
A Stamp 4 is a residency permit for those who have been living and working in Ireland for a certain period of time. This includes people who have been on work permits, green cards, and other residency permits for a certain length of time. Stamp 4 holders have the right to work and live in Ireland without any restrictions.
Process for Applying for Residency in Ireland
The process for applying for residency in Ireland depends on the type of permit you are applying for. Generally, you will need to apply for your residency permit before you arrive in Ireland.
Applying for a Stamp 0, 1, 2, or 3
If you are applying for a Stamp 0, 1, 2, or 3, you will need to complete an application form and submit it to your nearest Irish embassy or consulate. You will also need to provide the following documents:
- A valid passport or other travel document
- A recent passport-sized photograph
- Proof of financial means to support yourself during your stay in Ireland
- Proof of your reason for coming to Ireland (for example, a letter of offer from an Irish university or a job offer from an Irish company)
- A certificate of good conduct from your home country (if required)
Applying for a Stamp 4
If you are applying for a Stamp 4, you will need to complete an application form and submit it to your nearest Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) office in Ireland. You will also need to provide the following documents:
- A valid passport or other travel document
- A recent passport-sized photograph
- Proof of your financial means to support yourself during your stay in Ireland
- Proof of your reason for staying in Ireland (for example, a letter from your employer or evidence of self-employment)
- Proof of your residence in Ireland (for example, a rental agreement or utility bills)
- Evidence of your previous residency permits, if applicable
Registering with the Government
You are required to register with the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) on arrival in Ireland if you are seeking permanent or temporary residency.
Reliable, Up-to-date Information on Residence in Ireland
For reliable, up-to-date information on residence in Ireland, you can visit the following websites:
- Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS): https://www.inis.gov.ie/
- Irish Department of Justice and Equality: https://www.justice.ie/en/JELR/Pages/Residency
- Irish Citizen Information: https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/moving_country/moving_to_ireland/