Europe
Ireland immigration and visa guide
Ireland offers the Critical Skills Employment Permit (CSEP) with direct fast-track permanent residency (Stamp 4) after just 21 months.
Immigration Service Delivery (ISD) & DETE
- Processing time
- 4 – 10 weeks
- Passport validity
- 6+ months
- Points-based system
- No
- Digital nomad friendly
- No
Visa options in Ireland
Key requirements
- Job offer for an occupation on the Critical Skills Occupations List with minimum €38,000/year salary (or €64,000+ for non-listed roles)
- Employment permit issued by Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment (DETE)
- IRP registration appointment with Burgh Quay / local Garda immigration office
How to apply for a Ireland visa: step by step
- 1
DETE Employment Permit Issuance
Employer or employee files application on EPOS online system for Critical Skills permit.
3 - 6 weeks
- 2
Consular Entry Visa (Category D)
Visa-required nationals submit passport to Irish Embassy/VFS for long-stay entry visa.
3 - 5 weeks
- 3
IRP Stamp 1 & Conversion to Stamp 4
Register with ISD for Irish Residence Permit (IRP) Stamp 1, convertible to unrestricted Stamp 4 after 21 months.
Post-arrival
Official government links
Frequently asked questions
What is Stamp 4 in Ireland?
Stamp 4 allows you to work without an employment permit, establish your own business, and sponsor family members, acting as the bridge to Irish citizenship.
Find a licensed adviser
For advice on your own case, use a licensed immigration lawyer or adviser. Always check they are registered before you pay anyone. Imiatlas does not refer or review cases.
Look for a lawyer registered with the national bar association or law society in Ireland. The official immigration website explains any rules on who may represent applicants.
Immigration Service Delivery (ISD) & DETEGeneral information to help you research, not legal advice. Rules change often: always confirm with Immigration Service Delivery (ISD) & DETE on the official website before applying.