Ireland Passport Stamps: Apply from the UK
Per the Irish immigration rules, there are various immigration stamps. All stamps correspond to a particular type of immigration permit.
If you have any questions regarding Irish visitor visas for citizens of Ireland you can contact our expert immigration lawyers to discuss any concerns you may have, provide assistance or for some help navigating the application process.
You can call us on 0333 305 9375, or contact us online seven days a week via our live chat.
Page Contents
- What are Irish Immigration Stamps?
- Do British Citizens Require Immigration Stamps?
- What Are The Various Stamps?
- Stamp 0 Conditions
- Stamps 1 And 1a
- Stamp 1G
- Stamps 2 And 2a
- Stamp 3
- Stamp 4
- Stamp 5 And Stamp 6
- Common Errors
- Evolution of Stamps
- Short vs Long Term Stamps
- How Total Law Can Help
- Frequently Asked Questions
Do British citizens need Irish immigration stamps?
There are a variety of immigration stamps in Ireland. They correspond to the type of visa that you’re seeking. Irish immigration stamps are endorsements placed on passports or travel documents by Irish immigration authorities upon entry or exit from the Republic of Ireland.
The stamps will show the type of permission that you have, as well as the length of time that you can stay. They serve as a record of a person’s entry into or departure from Ireland and may include the date of entry or exit, the port of entry or departure, and other relevant information.
Does Ireland stamp UK passports?
Your country of residence and citizenship determines whether you will need a visa to enter Ireland. The Treaty of Rome allows for the free movement of European Union and EEA nationals within the EU (including Ireland).
The treaty rights explain that you may not need a visa to enter Ireland if you’re a British, EU/EEA citizen. A valid passport or national identity card is all you need to enter and stay in Ireland for up to three months. This means that citizens of the UK, an EU/EEA member state or Switzerland are able to enter and reside in Ireland for up to three months simply by presenting their valid passport or national identity card – they do not require a visa or a work permit.
If you are a British citizen with a British Passport – you are not required to get Immigration Stamps when wishing to enter Ireland due to the immigration rules. This is because of the Common Travel Area agreement that dates back centuries. Under this long-standing agreement, citizens of the UK can move, travel and live freely in Ireland. When a British citizen decides to relocate to Ireland, they can do so freely and will be privy to the same exact rights as Irish citizens.
However, if you live in the United Kingdom by way of a different immigration pathway, such as a work visa, and are a non-European Union/EEA citizen, you will most likely require a visa to visit or reside in Ireland, depending on your travel purpose and your country of residence. You must establish whether you require a visa or not prior to travelling to Ireland to avoid any problems.
Ireland Passport Stamps: What Are the Various Types?
If you live in the UK by way of a different immigration pathway, such as a work visa, and are a non-European Union/EEA citizen, you will most likely require a visa to visit or reside in Ireland, depending on your travel purpose and your country of residence.
Each permission type in Ireland is done so by a stamp and a corresponding number, for example, stamp 1, stamp 2, and stamp 3.
The type of stamp you receive in your passport will be stated on your Irish Resident Permit (IRP) card to inform you what you can do and how long you can stay in Ireland and the individual conditions.
Once you have permission to stay in Ireland you must register it with the Irish immigration authorities, known as Immigration Service Delivery (ISD) or the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB), within 90 days.
It is during this appointment with the immigration services, that you will be given your Irish Residence Permit (IRP).
To get your IRP, you will need to provide the following information:
- A valid passport (unless you have refugee or subsidiary protection)
- Proof of address
- Proof of your employment (if applicable)
- Details about your situation in Ireland. For example, if you are married to an Irish citizen, you should bring your marriage certificate and proof that you are living together with your spouse.
There is a fee of €300 for your Irish Residence Permit. However, your IRP is free if you:
- Hold refugee status
- Hold subsidiary protection status
- Hold leave to remain under Section 49 of the International Protection Act 2015
- You are under 18 years old
- You’re a resident based on your marriage to an Irish citizen
- You’re a family member of a citizen of the European Union
Ireland Passport Stamps: What Are the Various Types?
The following stamps are possible:
Stamp Type | Eligibility | Permissions | Duration |
Stamp 0 | For people of outstanding ability or talent | Can work without a permit | Indefinite |
Stamp 1 | Work Permit Holders | Can work with an employment permit | 1-2 years |
Stamp 1A | Business permission holders | Can work with a business permit | 1-2 years |
Stamp 1G | Graduates/Spouses of Critical Skills workers | Can work up to 40 hours per week | 12 months |
Stamp 2 | Non-EEA students studying in Ireland | Can work up to 20 hours per week | Duration of studies |
Stamp 2A | Non-EEA students on a full-time course of study | Can work up to 20 hours per week | Duration of studies |
Stamp 3 | Permission to remain on humanitarian grounds | Cannot work | Temporary (1 year) |
Stamp 4 | Long-term residents | Can work without a permit | 2-5 years |
Stamp 4S | Spouses of Irish citizens | Can work without a permit | Indefinite |
Stamp 4D | Dependent family members of Stamp 4 holders | Can work without a permit | 2-5 years |
Stamp 5 | Persons residing in Ireland for at least 5 years | Can work without a permit | Indefinite |
Stamp 6 | Special categories (e.g., diplomats) | Varies | Varies |
Stamp 0 Requirements: Who Qualifies and What You Need to Know
Stamp 0 indicates permission to stay in Ireland for a temporary period, subject to conditions.
You must reach the following:
- You must be fully financially self-sufficient or your sponsor in Ireland must be and can support you fully.
- You are not entitled to receive any benefits or use publicly funded services – You must have private medical insurance.
- You are not permitted to work or engage in any business, trade or profession unless specified in a letter of permission.
Some example when you may be granted a Stamp 0:
- You are retiring to or living in Ireland as a person of independent means
- Be a visiting academic at an Irish university or college
- Live in Ireland as the elderly, dependent relative of a non-EU/EEA or Swiss citizen
- Extend a short term visit here due to exceptional humanitarian circumstances
- Work here for an overseas company to carry out a specific task for a limited time
Stamp 1 vs Stamp 1A: What’s the Difference?
Stamp 1 indicates permission to work or operate a business in Ireland, subject to conditions.
Stamp 1 is reckonable as a residence when applying for citizenship by naturalization.
You must reach the following:
- You must not start a job or enter employment unless you or your employer has obtained an employment permit for you.
- If you do not have an employment permit you must not engage in any business, trade or profession unless specified in a letter of permission from INIS.
- If you wish to stay in Ireland past the expiry date of your immigration permission, you must apply to renew your permission and registration before they expire.
Stamp 1A is for full-time, paid accountancy training, with a named organization such as CPA Ireland, ICAI or regulated by the IAASA that offers a trainee accountant contract in Ireland, for a specified period, subject to conditions.
You must reach the following:
- You must not engage in any other business, trade or profession unless specified in a letter of permission from INIS.
- If you wish to stay in Ireland past the expiry date of your immigration permission, you must apply to renew your permission and registration before they expire.
Stamp 1G for Graduates and Partners
A Stamp 1G is for people who have graduated from a level 8 or above course and wish to look for employment in Ireland and partners of a Critical Skills Employment Permit holder or Researchers on a Hosting Agreement.
This is permitted under the Third Level Graduate Scheme and allows you to work in Ireland, subject to conditions like working a maximum of 40 hours per week.
When applying for immigration permission which gives you Stamp 1G, you must hold Stamp 2 registration already.
A Stamp 1G is also for the spouse/de facto partner of a Critical Skills Employment Permit holder or Researchers on a Hosting Agreement.
These spouses or partners are now able – through Stamp 1G – to work in Ireland without being required to obtain a work permit. Yet, they are not permitted to establish or operate a business, and they cannot be self-employed.
Renewal of Stamp 1G registration ought to be applied annually. After five years on a Stamp 1G, you may apply for a Stamp 4.
Time periods spent on Stamp 1G are considered as reckonable residence when applying for citizenship/naturalization.
What Is Stamp 2 and Stamp 2A for Students in Ireland?
Stamp 2 is for people who wish to study a full-time course on the official Interim List of Eligible Programmes for a specified period.
Stamp 2 is not reckonable as a residence.
You must reach the following:
- You are not allowed to receive any benefits or use publicly funded services (e.g., public hospitals) unless you have an entitlement via other means, such as insurance.
- You can engage in casual employment for up to 20 hours a week during school term and this can increase to 40 hours per week during holidays. You must not engage in any other business or trade.
- If you wish to stay in Ireland past the expiry date of your immigration permission, you must apply to renew your permission and registration before they expire.
You may be given Stamp 2 if you have permission to study the English language, a Higher national diploma, a Degree (undergraduate), a Master’s degree (postgraduate), and a PhD.
Stamp 2A is slightly different and is reserved for people who wish to study full-time in Ireland for a course that is not on the official Interim List of Eligible Programmes (ILEP), for a specified period. Stamp 2A is not reckonable as a residence when applying for citizenship by naturalization.
You must reach the following:
- You cannot receive any benefits or use publicly funded services, e.g. public hospitals. You must have private medical insurance.
- You must not work or engage in any business, trade or profession.
- If you wish to stay in Ireland past the expiry date of your immigration permission, you must apply to renew your permission and registration before they expire.
You may be given Stamp 2A for a semester abroad or to study at a private secondary school in Ireland.
Stamp 3: Volunteering or Joining a Family Member in Ireland
Stamp 3 is reckonable as a residence when applying for citizenship by naturalization.
This stamp is provided to those who have been granted permission to stay in Ireland as a volunteer or as a Minister of Religion. You must not work in any business, trade or profession.
You may be given Stamp 3 if you wish to volunteer, be a minister of religion, or join your non-EEA/EU/Swiss spouse/civil partner or family member who is in Ireland based on a work permit.
Stamp 4: How to Get Permanent Residence in Ireland
Stamp 4 is reckonable as a residence when applying for citizenship by naturalization.
You must reach the following:
- You can take up employment and are not required to hold an Employment Permit.
- You can work in a profession, subject to conditions of the relevant professional or other bodies.
- You can establish and operate a business.
- You may access state funds and services
- If you wish to stay in Ireland past the expiry date of your immigration permission, you must apply to renew your permission and registration before they expire.
You may be given Stamp 4 if you have had permission to work or granted permission in Ireland:
- With a valid Critical Skills employment permit for 2 years
- With a valid employment permit for 5 years
- As a researcher (ie with a valid Hosting Agreement) for 2 years
- To join your Irish spouse, civil partner or de-facto partner
- To join your EU/EEA or Swiss family member based on EU Treaty Rights
- To join a family member who has immigration permission based on Stamp 4EUFAM (ie EU Treaty Rights)
- To join your family member who is a recognized refugee or has been granted subsidiary protection
- To remain with your child who is an Irish citizen
- Under the Investor and Entrepreneur Programme (including spouse/partner & family)
- For Long Term Residence
- As a convention or programme refugee, or based on subsidiary protection
Ireland’s Stamp 5 and Stamp 6: What They Mean for Long-Term Residents and Dual Citizens
Stamps 5 and 6 are for people who have been granted permission to stay in Ireland without limits as to the period of time they are able to remain here.
Stamp 5 is also reckonable as a residence when applying for citizenship by naturalization. It is granted to those who have completed 8 years of legal residency in Ireland.
Those who are granted Stamp 5 permission are able to remain in Ireland ‘Without Condition as To Time.’
Stamp 6s are for Irish citizens that hold dual citizenship. To qualify for a Stamp 6, you must hold or be entitled to hold an Irish passport.
A Stamp 6 may be placed within a non-Irish passport for those who have applied for permission to remain in Ireland ‘Without Condition’.
Common Errors with Irish Immigration Stamps and How to Avoid Them
Navigating the complexities of Irish immigration stamps can lead to common mistakes. Here are some frequent errors and tips on how to avoid them:
- Overstaying Permissions: One of the most significant issues is overstaying the duration permitted by the stamp. Always know your visa’s expiry date and apply for extensions or new stamps in advance.
- Misunderstanding Terms: Many travellers misinterpret the permissions associated with their stamp, such as work restrictions. Always read the conditions attached to your stamp and consult official resources if you need clarification.
- Travelling with Expired Permissions: Ensure your immigration stamps and permissions are valid before travelling. This includes double-checking that your re-entry stamp is still active if you plan to leave and return to Ireland.
Evolution of Irish Immigration Stamps
Immigration stamps were introduced after Ireland joined the European Union (EU) in 1973. New immigration required new categories. Initially, stamps were introduced for work permits and student visas. As economic conditions began to change and highly skilled labour became more in demand, new stamps and visa pathways were introduced to differentiate.
Further updates, including the Immigration Act 2004, changed the stamp issue. There was a focus on security, compliance, and humanitarian needs.
In recent times, the immigration system in Ireland has been continually digitised. Renewal of Irish Residence Permits is now completed online. It is anticipated that the future will see first-time applicants also be able to apply online for their Irish Residence Permit and subsequent stamps.
Ireland will also implement the EU’s ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) in mid-2025. All non-EU nationals who previously did not need a visa to enter Ireland will need an ETIAS to visit.
Stamps for Temporary Visas vs. Long-Term Residency
Understanding the differences between temporary and long-term residency stamps is crucial for anyone navigating the Irish immigration system.
- Temporary Visas (e.g., Stamp 0): These stamps are usually granted for short visits or specific purposes, such as attending conferences or family visits. They often come with strict conditions and limited permissions, such as a prohibition on work.
- Long-Term Residency Stamps (e.g., Stamp 4): These are granted to individuals who have resided in Ireland for an extended period or have significant ties to the country. Holders of these stamps can work without a permit and often enjoy more stability in their residency status.
- Transitioning Between Stamps: If you hold a temporary visa but wish to transition to a long-term residency stamp, you’ll typically need to apply for a new stamp that reflects your changed circumstances, meeting all eligibility requirements and documentation.
How Can Total Law Help with With Ireland Passport Stamps?
The immigration system in Ireland is challenging, and it is advised that you get support and further information from our law team at Total Law for the best results. Our team of knowledgeable immigration lawyers have extensive knowledge and experience in navigating the Irish immigration system.
Our team can offer legal guidance throughout your immigration journey, and we will make sure that you are eligible for the route you are applying for and can help you to meet the requirements.
You can speak to our team seven days a week via phone call on 0333 305 9375, or by using our online chat function.
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Related pages for your continued reading.
Frequently Asked Questions
To apply for Irish citizenship by naturalization, you need to live in Ireland for five years, within eight years. As the spouse/civil partner of an Irish citizen, the duration is three years, within five years.
You can count how long you’ve lived in Ireland by adding up your Irish permission stamps. The stamps that count towards are:
- Stamp 1
- Stamp 1G for a spouse, civil partner or de facto partner of a Researcher on a Hosting Agreement or Critical Skills Employment Permit
- Stamp 3
- Stamp 4
- Stamp 5
Stamps that don’t count towards citizenship are:
- Stamp 0
- Stamp 1A
- Stamp 1G for Third Level Graduate Programme
- Stamp 2
- Stamp 2A
If you cannot get an appointment within 90 days, it is okay. Your permission will not be cancelled while you are waiting to register.
However, you must be able to demonstrate that you have tried to get an appointment within this 90 day period and that you have attempted to register.
Someone seeking to register beyond a reasonable time may be refused and issued with an intention to deport notification.