Change of Immigration Status in Ireland (2025)

Changing Your Immigration Status in Ireland

Immigration permission in Ireland is granted under specific stamps that reflect your reason for being in the country—such as work, study, family reunification, or asylum. But what if your personal circumstances change and your current immigration status no longer reflects your situation?

The Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) allows for a Change of Immigration Status in certain situations. However, change of immigration status is not automatic and requires a formal application with strong justification and documentation.

At Expert Consultants, we help individuals and families understand whether they qualify to switch their status, prepare the necessary paperwork, and make a strong case to immigration authorities for change of immigration status.

This guide explains when and how to apply for a change of Immigration status in Ireland, the documents required, and what to expect from the process in 2025.

You can also explore our Passport Services for assistance with passport applications, renewals, and related travel documentation.

01 9081113

enquiries@expertconsultants.ie

01 9081113

enquiries@expertconsultants.ie

A change of immigration status refers to switching from one immigration stamp to another—for example:

  • From Stamp 2 (student) to Stamp 1G or Stamp 1 (employment).
  • From Stamp 1G (graduate) to Stamp 4 (residency).
  • From Stamp 3 (dependant) to Stamp 1 (work permit holder).
  • From Stamp 2 to Stamp 4 in family reunification or parent of Irish child cases.
  • From asylum-seeker or undocumented status to regularized legal residency.

Each stamp grants specific rights and restrictions in Ireland, such as the ability to work, study, or bring family members.

Applications for a change of immigration status are considered on a case-by-case basis. You may be eligible if:

  • Your personal or family situation has changed (e.g. marriage, parenthood, bereavement).
  • You have completed studies and secured employment.
  • You were granted residence under one scheme and now qualify for another (e.g. long-term residency).
  • You are in Ireland on a dependent visa and now wish to work or study independently.
  • You have been undocumented but now qualify for a status through a child, spouse, or job.

All applications are discretionary, meaning approval is not guaranteed and depends on the strength of your case and the documentation you provide.

  • Students who have graduated and want to switch from Stamp 2 to Stamp 1G.
  • Graduates with a job offer applying to move from Stamp 1G to Stamp 1 (work permit holder).
  • Non-EEA parents of Irish citizen children seeking Stamp 4.
  • Spouses or partners of Irish citizens requesting a change from visitor or short-stay visa to residence.
  • People previously undocumented or on expired visas regularizing their stay through humanitarian grounds or family links.

At Expert Consultants, we assess your specific case and recommend the best pathway based on your immigration history and goals.

The application process will depend on your current stamp and the new status you are applying for. However, the general steps include:
Step 1: Review Your Eligibility
Understand whether your situation justifies a change of status under current immigration policy. INIS provides guidelines, but interpretation often requires expert advice.
Step 2: Prepare a Cover Letter
Write a detailed personal statement explaining:

  • Your current immigration status.
  • Why it no longer reflects your situation.
  • Your relationship to Ireland (family, employment, education).
  • The type of permission you are now seeking.

This cover letter is one of the most important parts of your application.
Step 3: Gather Supporting Documents
These may include:

  • Valid passport and current Irish Residence Permit (IRP).
  • Birth/marriage certificates (for family-based applications).
  • Employment offer or contract.
  • Payslips and tax records.
  • Academic transcripts and graduation letters.
  • Proof of cohabitation or relationship (for spouses/partners).
  • Garda clearance and medical insurance (if required).

All documents must be original or certified copies and translated into English if necessary.
Step 4: Submit to INIS or Local Immigration Office
Some applications must be submitted to INIS Residence Division, while others can be submitted at your local immigration office. We help you identify the correct route and ensure your submission is properly organized.
Step 5: Await a Decision
Processing times can vary significantly—anywhere from 8 to 20 weeks depending on the nature of the request and supporting evidence.

  • You must not violate the terms of your current permission while waiting for a decision.
  • You may be asked to leave the country and reapply from abroad, depending on your entry method or immigration history.
  • If you have overstayed your visa or residence permit, you must address it transparently in your application.

Each case is unique. Expert Consultants can help you prepare a detailed application with the right legal and factual support.

  • Gain access to legal employment.
  • Open eligibility for family reunification.
  • Apply for long-term residency in the future.
  • Remove restrictions related to study or work.
  • Build a stable life in Ireland under correct legal permission.

Whether you’re a student moving into the workforce, a parent seeking family reunification, or someone trying to regularize your stay, the right immigration status is crucial for long-term planning.

Why Expert Consultants?

Your Pathway to a Successful Work Visa in Ireland

Changing your immigration status is a sensitive, often complex process. At Expert Consultants, we offer:

Honest and personalized eligibility assessments

We evaluate your profile honestly to match you with the right visa option.

Drafting of persuasive cover letters and affidavits

Our experts craft strong supporting documents to boost your application success.

Assistance in compiling and organizing all required documents

Get full support in gathering and structuring every needed file for submission.

Step-by-step application support and embassy/INIS correspondence

From start to finish, we guide you and handle communication with authorities.

Guidance on work rights, renewals, and next steps after approval

We help you understand your rights and plan for renewals or future transitions.

We are here to make your transition smooth, compliant, and stress-free.

Talk to our Consultants

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Yes, in many cases. However, some status changes must be made from outside the country depending on your entry route and current permission.

Only if your current immigration permission allows you to work. Otherwise, you must wait until a new stamp is granted.

Generally, no. Tourist visa holders are not allowed to remain in Ireland beyond 90 days and must return to their home country to apply for long-term status.

Processing time ranges from 8 to 20 weeks, depending on the complexity of the case and current backlog at INIS.

You can still apply for a change of status, especially if you have strong family ties (e.g. Irish citizen child or spouse). However, your case must be presented carefully to avoid a deportation order.

That depends on your reason for applying. Common outcomes include Stamp 1 (work permit), Stamp 1G (graduate job-seeking), or Stamp 4 (residency based on family or humanitarian grounds).

Ready to Apply for a Change of Immigration Status?

If your life in Ireland is evolving—whether through education, family, work, or personal circumstances—you deserve the legal status that matches your new reality.

Let Expert Consultants help you take the next step. Visit to book a consultation and receive expert guidance on changing your immigration status in Ireland.