Ireland Residence Permit – Complete Guide for 2025

If you plan to live, study, or work in Ireland for more than 90 days and are not from the EEA, UK, or Switzerland, you’ll need an Irish Residence Permit (IRP). This card is official proof of your legal residency in Ireland and outlines the conditions of your stay.

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Who Needs an Irish Residence Permit?

You must apply for an IRP if you:

• Are a non-EEA, non-UK, and non-Swiss national
• Intend to stay in Ireland for more than 90 days
• Are 16 years or older

Children under 16 must register once they reach their 16th birthday.

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How to Get an Irish Residence Permit

1. Get Immigration Permission

Before applying, you must obtain permission to enter and reside in Ireland under a specific visa or program, such as:

• Employment visa
• Study visa
• Family reunification
• Humanitarian grounds

2. Register Your Permission

Once you arrive in Ireland, you must register your immigration permission within 90 days. As of 2025, first-time registrations are done in person at the registration office in Dublin (Burgh Quay). Local Garda stations no longer handle initial registrations.

3. Documents Required

You’ll need to present the following documents when registering:

• Valid passport
• Letter of permission or approval from Immigration Service Delivery
• Proof of address in Ireland
• Employment or study documents (as applicable)
• Private medical insurance

Make sure all documents are accurate and up to date.

4. Pay the Registration Fee

• Standard fee: €300
• Exemptions may apply for individuals under 18, refugees, or other special cases
• Payment is made by debit or credit card

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After You Register

Once approved, you will receive your Irish Residence Permit card by post. This card includes:

• Your name and photo
• Immigration permission type
• Expiry date
• Unique registration number

You are legally required to carry your IRP card at all times while in Ireland and present it to immigration officers or police upon request.

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Renewing Your Residence Permit

IRPs are usually valid for 1 year, but this may vary based on your visa type. You must renew it at least 30 days before expiration. Renewals are generally processed online, depending on your residence location and visa type.

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Long-Term Residency in Ireland

After a certain number of years living in Ireland under valid permissions, you may apply for long-term residency.

• General Employment Permit holders: Eligible after 5 years
• Critical Skills Employment Permit holders: Eligible after 2 years

Long-term residency allows you to live and work in Ireland without needing an employment permit (Stamp 4).

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Important Tips

• Register on Time: Late registration may affect your immigration record and future applications
• Keep Details Updated: Any changes in address, employer, or study status should be reported immediately
• Plan Ahead: Appointments for first-time registration can be limited, especially in peak periods

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Summary

The Irish Residence Permit is essential for non-EEA nationals staying in Ireland long-term. Make sure to register promptly, prepare your documents carefully, and follow renewal timelines to stay compliant. Whether you’re here to work, study, or reunite with family, securing your IRP is your first step toward a legal and stable stay in Ireland.