Different types of Visas

Ireland's employment permit and immigration stamp system governs the entry, stay, and employment of non-EEA nationals. Understanding these permits and stamps is essential for anyone seeking to work in Ireland.

Contact us to discuss your options for sponsorship and contracting in Ireland.

For more detailed information , visit the Irish Immigration Website.

Employment permits

The first step to working in Ireland is securing an employment permit. These are issued by the Irish Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment and there are nine different permit types. The most common types for people looking to work in Ireland are:

  • General Employment Permit: Requires a job offer with a salary of at least €30,000. The employer must demonstrate efforts to hire locally before applying.

  • Critical Skills Employment Permit: For highly skilled roles with salaries of at least €38,000 for specific roles or €64,000 for others. It offers fast-track residency benefits and does not require a Labour Market Needs Test.

  • Intra-Company Transfer Permit: For employees of multinational companies transferring to Ireland.

The timeframe from application to Employment Permit is typically about 2-3 weeks although this can vary.

Once you have the Employment permit, you may then need a Visa which you can apply for through the online AVATS system. You should apply for this Visa up to 3 months before your intended date of travel to Ireland. This link provides more information on how to apply for a Visa.

Receiving an Immigration Stamp

Upon arrival in Ireland, you need to register with the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) to receive an immigration stamp and IRP. This link provides more information on registration your immigration permission to remain in Ireland The type of stamp depends on your employment permit and purpose of stay.

  • Stamp 1: Issued for those with General Employment or Critical Skills Employment Permits. It allows you to work and operate a business if permitted.

  • Stamp 1G: For graduates on the Third Level Graduate Programme and spouses/partners of Critical Skills Employment Permit holders. It allows full-time work.

  • Stamp 4: Granted to those who have held a Critical Skills Employment Permit for two years or a General Employment Permit for five years. It allows work without an employment permit and counts towards long-term residency.

Applying for Long-term Residency

After residing in Ireland for a certain period, you can apply for long-term residency (Stamp 4).

  • Eligibility for Long-term Residency: Can be applied for after holding a Critical Skills Employment Permit for two years or a General Employment Permit for five years. This stamp allows you to work without needing an employment permit.

Applying for Permanent Residency

After holding Stamp 4 for five years, you may apply for Stamp 5, which grants permission to stay without time limits.

Application Process:

  • Prepare Documentation: Gather proof of continuous residence in Ireland, employment records, and tax compliance over the past five years.

  • Submit Application: Complete the application form and submit it along with the required documents to the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS).

  • Review and Decision: INIS reviews your application and documents.

  • Receive Stamp 5: If approved, you will be granted Stamp 5, indicating permanent residency.

 

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