Stamp 4 eligibility and progression

Who this pathway suits

Stamp 4 represents permanent residency rights in Ireland. Holders no longer require an employment permit from DETE and can be employed in any profession, work for multiple employers, become self-employed, or start their own company.The most common routes to Stamp 4 are completing 2 years on a Critical Skills Employment Permit (or Hosting Agreement), completing 57 months on a General Employment Permit, or through marriage/partnership to an Irish or EU citizen.Years spent on Stamp 4 count as 100% 'reckonable residence' toward the 5 years required to apply for Irish citizenship and an Irish European Union passport.

Eligibility at a glance

• Completed at least 21 months of continuous employment on a Critical Skills Employment Permit (with a Support Letter from DETE)
• OR completed 57 months of continuous employment on a General Employment Permit
• OR spouse/civil partner/de facto partner of an Irish citizen
• OR family member of an EU citizen exercising treaty rights (EU Treaty Rights / Stamp 4EUST)
• Continued adherence to Irish tax laws and employment standards

How the process works

1. Apply for DETE Support Letter — Employment permit holders submit EPOS application for a Stamp 4 Support Letter.
2. Receive DETE Confirmation — Department verifies tax and employment records and issues letter.
3. Register with ISD — Book appointment at Burgh Quay (Dublin) or local Garda National Immigration Bureau (outside Dublin).
4. Stamp 4 IRP Card Issued — Receive updated Irish Residence Permit card with Stamp 4 open conditions.

Documents you will typically need

• Valid passport and current Irish Residence Permit (IRP) card
• DETE Stamp 4 Support Letter (for employment permit holders)
• P60 / Employment Detail Summary from Revenue for each qualifying year
• Current employer letter confirming ongoing employment
• Recent payslips and proof of address

Frequently asked questions