Stamp 1A in Ireland – A Complete Guide

Stamp 1A is a specific immigration permission in Ireland granted to non-EEA nationals who are undertaking a full-time accountancy training program with a registered training firm.

If you’re looking for information on Stamp 2 Ireland, you can explore it here.

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info@expertconsultants.ie

stamp 1a

What is Stamp 1A?

Stamp 1A is a specific immigration permission in Ireland granted to non-EEA nationals who are undertaking a full-time accountancy training program with a registered training firm. Unlike other work-related stamps, Stamp 1A is issued solely for the purpose of professional training, meaning that individuals holding this permission cannot engage in any other employment outside of their training contract.  

This stamp is essential for aspiring accountants who need practical experience in Ireland to qualify as chartered accountants or other recognized accountancy professionals. It allows them to work and train within an approved firm while completing their exams and practical requirements.

Who is Eligible for Stamp 1A?

Stamp 1A is designed specifically for accountancy trainees, and to qualify, applicants must meet the following conditions:

  • Must have a full-time training contract with a recognized and registered training firm in Ireland.
  • Must be studying for a professional accountancy qualification, such as:
    Chartered Accountants Ireland (CAI)
    Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA)
    Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA)
    Institute of Certified Public Accountants in Ireland (CPA Ireland)
  • Must be registered as a student with a recognized accountancy body in Ireland.
  • Must provide proof of financial resources and private medical insurance. 

Since Stamp 1A is not a general work permit, it is restricted to individuals undergoing structured professional training in accountancy and does not allow any work outside the approved training program. 

Rights and Restrictions Under Stamp 1A

What You Can Do

Work only in an approved accountancy training firm as part of your training contract.
Gain practical experience while preparing for professional accountancy exams.
Renew Stamp 1A as long as you remain in the training program and meet immigration conditions.Transition to a General Employment Permit or Critical Skills Employment Permit after qualification. 

What You Cannot Do

Engage in any employment outside the accountancy training contract.
Work for a different employer unless a new training contract is issued and approved.
Apply for Stamp 4 directly from Stamp 1A.
Stay in Ireland beyond the training period unless transitioning to another valid work permit.  

How to Apply for Stamp 1A?

1

Secure a Training Contract with a Registered Firm

  • Obtain a full-time accountancy training contract with an approved Irish training firm.
  • Ensure your contract is registered with a recognized accountancy body in Ireland.

2

 Gather Required Documents

  • Valid passport.
  • Training contract issued by an approved accountancy firm.
  • Proof of registration with a recognized professional accountancy body.
  • Letter from the employer confirming the details of your training program.
  • Proof of private medical insurance.
  • Financial evidence to show you can support yourself during the training period.

3

Submit Application to Immigration Authorities

  • If you are already in Ireland, you must apply for Stamp 1A at the Immigration Service Delivery (ISD) office.
  • If you are outside Ireland, you will need to apply for a long-stay D visa before traveling.
  • Once approved, you will receive Stamp 1A permission, allowing you to live and train in Ireland under the terms of your contract. 

1

Secure a Training Contract with a Registered Firm

  • Obtain a full-time accountancy training contract with an approved Irish training firm.
  • Ensure your contract is registered with a recognized accountancy body in Ireland.

2

 Gather Required Documents

  • Valid passport.
  • Training contract issued by an approved accountancy firm.
  • Proof of registration with a recognized professional accountancy body.
  • Letter from the employer confirming the details of your training program.
  • Proof of private medical insurance.
  • Financial evidence to show you can support yourself during the training period.

3

Submit Application to Immigration Authorities

  • If you are already in Ireland, you must apply for Stamp 1A at the Immigration Service Delivery (ISD) office.
  • If you are outside Ireland, you will need to apply for a long-stay D visa before traveling.
  • Once approved, you will receive Stamp 1A permission, allowing you to live and train in Ireland under the terms of your contract. 

Renewing Stamp 1A?

Stamp 1A is typically issued for the duration of your training contract, which is usually between three to four years. If you need additional time, you must: 

  • Provide an updated letter from your training firm confirming your continued training.
  • Show proof of ongoing registration with your accountancy body.
  • Ensure you still meet the financial and medical insurance requirements.
  • Apply for renewal before your current permission expires.

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

  • Failure to secure a valid training contract
    Your contract must be from a registered accountancy firm in Ireland.
  • Lack of registration with an accountancy body
    You must be formally enrolled in a recognized accountancy qualification program.
  • Incomplete application documents
    Ensure you provide all required paperwork to avoid delays.
  • Expired training contract
    If your training period ends, you cannot remain in Ireland on Stamp 1A unless you transition to another permit.

What Happens After Stamp 1A?

Once you complete your accountancy training and qualify as an accountant, you may be eligible to transition to a full employment permit in Ireland. Common options include:

  • Stamp 1 (General Employment Permit)
    If you secure a permanent role in an accountancy firm, you can apply for a General Employment Permit.
  • Stamp 1 (Critical Skills Employment Permit)
    If your role qualifies under the Critical Skills Occupation List, you can apply for a Critical Skills Employment Permit, which leads to Stamp 4 after two years.
  • Stamp 4 (Long-Term Residency)
    After working under an employment permit for a required number of years, you may qualify for Stamp 4, allowing you to work freely in Ireland. 

Stamp 1A is a specialized immigration permission designed for non-EEA accountancy trainees who need to complete practical training as part of their professional qualification. It provides a clear route to professional development in Ireland, but it comes with strict employment restrictions.  

If you plan to stay in Ireland after completing your training, you should prepare early for your transition to an employment permit. By securing a permanent job offer, you can move from Stamp 1A to a General or Critical Skills Employment Permit, allowing you to work freely and build a long-term career in Ireland.