Republic of Ireland · residence general
Stamp 4 permission
Long-term residence permission allowing unrestricted work in Ireland.
Last reviewed:
Overview
Stamp 4 is not itself a visa but an immigration permission granted after qualifying routes — most commonly 2 years on a Critical Skills Employment Permit, or 5 years on General Employment Permit. It allows work without a permit and is a step toward citizenship after 5 years of reckonable residence.
Government fees
Registration fee €300.
Typical duration
Typically issued for 1–5 years at a time; renewable.
Primary source
ISD — Registration (immigration permission) · Immigration Service Delivery
Link last verified:
Eligibility
Typical criteria
2 years on Critical Skills Employment Permit, or 5 years on General Employment Permit.
Alternatively, spouse of Irish citizen or EEA national.
Good character and compliance history.
Common blockers
Gaps in employment or non-compliance with permit terms.
Typical evidence
Payslips covering qualifying period.
Proof of address and tax residency.
Existing registration certificate.
Application pathway
Step 1
Complete qualifying period
Fulfil the 2 or 5-year qualifying residence on a prior permit.
Step 2
Apply for Stamp 4
Submit application to ISD with evidence of continuous lawful residence and employment.
Step 3
Renew periodically and count toward citizenship
Stamp 4 can be renewed; reckonable residence counts toward naturalisation after 5 years.
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Frequently asked questions
Does Stamp 4 lead to Irish citizenship?
Time on Stamp 4 can count toward the 5-year reckonable residence requirement for naturalisation, provided all other conditions are met (good character, intent to continue residing in Ireland, etc.).
Need tailored advice?
We do not provide legal advice. For an application that depends on your exact circumstances, consult a regulator-listed immigration advisor.
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