The Irish Residence Permit (IRP), formerly known as GNIB card, is a document that proves a non-European Union (EU) national's right to live and work in Ireland. It is a requirement for non-EU nationals who plan to stay in Ireland for more than 90 days.
Why is an IRP Card Necessary in Ireland?
The IRP Card serves as a form of identification for non-EU nationals in Ireland and is needed for various purposes, such as opening a bank account, accessing healthcare, or enrolling in school. It also provides evidence of a person's immigration status in Ireland and allows them to work and live in the country legally.
Who requires an Irish Residence Permit (IRP)?
If your registration is successful, you will be issued with an IRP.
To register, you must:
- be a non-EU/EEA and non-Swiss national
- be aged 16 or older
- go to a registration office in-person
- If you want to stay in Ireland past the expiry date on your IRP, you must apply to extend your immigration permission and renew your registration. If successful, you will be given a new IRP.
An IRP costs €300 per person every time you register and renew.
You may also have to pay for a new IRP if your current card is lost or stolen.
How to apply for an IRP Card in Ireland?
To get an Irish Residence Permit, you must be allowed to be in Ireland in the first place. Once you receive your Ireland visa, you can travel to Ireland, where you’ll be required to pass through Border Control and request for permission to stay. If the immigration officers at the Border Control allow you to enter, they will put a stamp on your passport which shows how long you can stay in Ireland for.
Every non-EU/EEA national is only allowed a maximum stay of 90 days if they have not received an Irish residence permit. So, before the days stated on your passport stamp are up, you must make an Ireland Residence Permit appointment.
★ Important info
- The Ireland visa is simply a pre-entry requirement. Both visas only allow the holder to stay in Ireland for a maximum of 90 days.
However, to be able to apply for an Ireland residence permit, you must have an Irish long stay (D) visa. You cannot apply for residency with a short stay (C) visa.
Where you submit your application for an Irish residence permit depends on your place of residence. As such:
If you live in Dublin, you must schedule an online appointment and show up in person to register at the Burgh Quay Registration Office.
If you live outside Dublin, you must contact your nearest Garda station (registration office) for an appointment and show up in person.
How long it takes to obtain an IRP Card?
If you are a Dublin resident and apply online, you will receive your IRP card within approximately 10 working days of processing your application. If you are attending a registration office outside of Dublin, the Immigration Officer will advise you how you will receive your Irish Residence Permit (IRP) card.
The Irish Residence Permit registration process
The process for obtaining an Irish Residence Permit (IRP) involves a visit to a registration appointment. During this appointment, an immigration officer will examine your documents and immigration status (e.g., work authorization). They will then compile your information and place a stamp on your card.
The IRP stamp in your card will indicate the activities you are authorized to engage in while in Ireland, including work or study.
★ Useful links
- The process and required documents will vary according to the stamp you will apply.
- Follow this page to get the most recent information:
