Stamp 1 in Ireland –
A Complete Guide

Stamp 1 Ireland is an essential immigration permission in Ireland, primarily issued to non-EEA nationals who have secured an employment permit or are establishing a business.

If you’re looking for information on Stamp 1H, can explore it here.

089 9882413

info@expertconsultants.ie

089 9882413

info@expertconsultants.ie

Stamp 1 Ireland

What is Stamp 1?

Stamp 1 is an essential immigration permission in Ireland, primarily issued to non-EEA nationals who have secured an employment permit or are establishing a business. It allows individuals to work and reside in Ireland under specific conditions.  

This stamp is often the first step towards long-term residency and is commonly granted to employment permit holders, entrepreneurs, and certain researchers. For many professionals, this Stamp serves as a pathway to Stamp 4, which provides greater work flexibility and fewer restrictions.  

Understanding the conditions of Stamp is crucial for anyone planning to live and work in Ireland, whether they are skilled professionals, investors, or academic researchers.

Who is Eligible for Stamp 1 Ireland?

This stamp is issued to individuals in the following categories:

1. Employment Permit Holders
  • You must have an approved General Employment Permit or Critical Skills Employment Permit from the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment (DETE).
  • You can work only for the employer and role specified in your permit.
  • You may be eligible for Stamp 4 after a certain period, depending on your permit type.  
2. Business Owners & Entrepreneurs
  • You must be establishing a business under the Start-Entrepreneur Programme (STEP) or have other business approval from Irish authorities.
  • You need to show proof of investment capital and a viable business plan.
  • Self-employment is permitted only if explicitly approved.  
3. Researchers on Hosting Agreements
  • You must have a hosting agreement with a recognized Irish research institution.
  • You can work as a researcher for the approved employer but may not engage in other employment.
  • Stamp 1 for researchers is usually time-limited and subject to renewal.  

Rights and Restrictions Under Stamp 1

What You Can Do

Work full-time for the employer listed on your employment permit.  
Start a business if approved under the Start-up Entrepreneur Programme.  
Apply for Stamp 4 after meeting specific work requirements.  
Bring dependents to Ireland under certain family reunification rules (varies by permit type).  

What You Cannot Do

Work for a different employer without applying for a new work permit.  
Change roles within the company unless your permit allows it.  
Access public funds or benefits.  
Stay in Ireland indefinitely without renewing or transitioning to a different stamp.

How to Apply for Stamp 1? 

1

Obtain an Employment Permit or Business Approval

  • General Employment Permit
  • Critical Skills Employment Permit
  • Hosting Agreement for Researchers
  • Approval under the Start-up Entrepreneur Programme 

2

Gather Required Documents

  • Valid passport
  • Employment permit or business approval letter
  • Irish Residence Permit (IRP) application form
  • Proof of private medical insurance
  • Financial documents (if applicable for business owners/entrepreneurs) 

3

Register with Immigration

  • Once your permit is approved, you must book an appointment with the immigration office (GNIB or INIS).
  • Pay the registration fee (if applicable).
  • Receive your Irish Residence Permit (IRP) card, which serves as proof of your immigration status.

1

Obtain an Employment Permit or Business Approval

  • General Employment Permit
  • Critical Skills Employment Permit
  • Hosting Agreement for Researchers
  • Approval under the Start-up Entrepreneur Programme 

2

Gather Required Documents

  • Valid passport
  • Employment permit or business approval letter
  • Irish Residence Permit (IRP) application form
  • Proof of private medical insurance
  • Financial documents (if applicable for business owners/entrepreneurs) 

3

Register with Immigration

  • Once your permit is approved, you must book an appointment with the immigration office (GNIB or INIS).
  • Pay the registration fee (if applicable).
  • Receive your Irish Residence Permit (IRP) card, which serves as proof of your immigration status.

Renewing Stamp 1 Ireland

This stamp is usually granted for 1-2 years at a time and must be renewed before it expires.
To renew, you must:

  • Show proof of continued employment or business activity.
  • Provide updated financial and insurance documents.
  • Submit a renewal application before your current IRP expires.  

Common Reasons for Stamp 1 Rejections & How to Avoid Them?

  • Incomplete employment permit application:
    Ensure all details match your work contract.
  • Failure to meet salary requirements:
    Employment permits often have minimum salary thresholds.
  • Working outside the approved terms:
    If caught working for an unapproved employer, your status may be revoked.
  • Expired residence permit:
    Always apply for renewals on time to avoid complications. 

Stamp 1 to Stamp 4 – The Transition Pathway

One of the biggest advantages of Stamp 1 is that it can lead to Stamp 4, which allows individuals to work freely without an employment permit.
Transition rules depend on your permit type:

  • Critical Skills Employment Permit holders:
    Eligible for Stamp 4 after 2 years.
  • General Employment Permit holders:
    Eligible for Stamp 4 after 5 years.
  • Researchers:
    Eligible for Stamp 4 after 2 years if meeting the criteria. 

After obtaining Stamp 4, you can live and work in Ireland without restrictions and eventually apply for long-term residency or naturalization. 

Stamp 1 is a key immigration permission for skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and researchers looking to build their careers in Ireland. Whether you are employed under a Critical Skills Employment Permit, launching a start-up, or conducting academic research, understanding Stamp conditions is crucial for a smooth immigration process and long-term settlement.  
For those looking to establish themselves in Ireland, planning ahead for Stamp 4 is vital, as it offers more freedom and long-term security. If you are considering applying for Stamp, ensure that your application is well-prepared, all documents are in order, and you meet the eligibility criteria to avoid delays or rejections.