Irish officials announced that Stamp 1 CSEP holders or Stamp 1H permission holders are now eligible for a Stamp 4 upgrade upon completion of 21 months from the date of commencement of employment.

Key Points:

• As BAL previously reported, Immigration Delivery Service updated the application process for Stamp 4 applications in November 2023, removing the requirement for Stamp 4 support letters to be submitted to the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment.
• As part of that policy change, the department also reviewed eligibility requirements for a Stamp 4 upgrade.
• Effective immediately, after review ISD has updated the policy so Stamp 1 CSEP holders or Stamp 1H permission holders are now eligible for a Stamp 4 upgrade upon completion of 21 months of employment in the State.
  • This determination will be based on an individual’s status in one of three categories:
    • Critical Skills Employment Permit
    • Hosting Agreement as a Researcher
    • Multi-Site General Employment Permit as a Non-Consultant Hospital Doctor

Background: Foreign nationals who have completed 57 months of employment on the basis of a General Employment Permit or an Intra-Company Transfer permit can now also apply for a Stamp 4. Previously, General Employment Permit holders were only eligible for a Stamp 4 upgrade after five years of employment, and Intra-Company Transfer Permit holders were not eligible for upgrade to a Stamp 4. The document requirements at registration for any employment category have not changed.

BAL Analysis: This change is welcome for employees who may no longer require second permits in order to satisfy the 21-month eligibility period for Stamp 4. The changes in policy should simplify the application process and provide additional access for eligible foreign nationals to live and work in Ireland.