Stamp 5 in Ireland –
A Complete Guide

Ireland Permanent Residency is an immigration permission granted to non-EEA nationals who have legally resided in Ireland for at least eight years.

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089 9882413

info@expertconsultants.ie

Stamp 5

What is Stamp 5?

Ireland Permanent Residency is an immigration permission granted to non-EEA nationals who have legally resided in Ireland for at least eight years. It is also known as “Without Condition As To Time” (WCATT) permission, meaning that holders are no longer required to renew their residency periodically.
Unlike other immigration stamps, Work and Live Permit Ireland grants indefinite residency rights, allowing the holder to live, work, and engage in business in Ireland without restrictions. However, it does not grant Irish citizenship, though it can be a step toward naturalization.

If you’re looking for information on Stamp 6 Ireland, which applies to Irish citizens holding dual nationality, you can explore it here.

Who is Eligible for Stamp 4D?

To qualify for Ireland Permanent Residency
, you must:

Who is Eligible for Ireland Permanent Residency?
  • Have legally resided in Ireland for at least eight years under a valid immigration permission.
  • Have maintained continuous residence, meaning no prolonged absences that break your residency history.
  • Hold a valid Irish Residence Permit (IRP) at the time of application.
  • Have complied with all immigration regulations and avoided visa breaches.
Who is Not Eligible?
  • Individuals who have spent time in Ireland on student visas (Stamp 2 or Stamp 2A) – Student years do not count toward Stamp 5 eligibility.
  • Individuals with gaps in their legal residency due to overstaying or visa violations.
  • Those who do not meet the minimum eight-year requirement.

Rights and Restrictions Under Stamp 5

What You Can Do

Live in Ireland indefinitely without the need to renew your residency.
Work without an employment permit.
Start and operate your own business or be self-employed.
Travel freely in and out of Ireland (subject to visa requirements of other countries).

What You Cannot Do

Automatically qualify for Irish citizenship – You must still apply for naturalization separately.
Lose your residency if you leave Ireland for long periods without maintaining a connection to the country.

How to Apply for Stamp 5?

1

Check Your Residency History

  • Eight years of legal residence in Ireland under valid permissions (excluding student visas).
  • A valid Irish Residence Permit (IRP) at the time of application.
  • No gaps or breaches in your residency status.

2

Gather Required Documents

  • Valid passport.
  • Current Irish Residence Permit (IRP) card.
  • Proof of continuous residence in Ireland (tax records, utility bills, rental agreements, or bank statements).
  • Letter requesting Full Residency Rights in Ireland explaining your eligibility and continuous residence.

3

Submit Your Application

  • Send your application by post to Immigration Service Delivery (ISD).
  • If approved, you will receive Ireland Lifetime Stay Permit permission endorsed in your passport.

1

Check Your Residency History

  • Eight years of legal residence in Ireland under valid permissions (excluding student visas).
  • A valid Irish Residence Permit (IRP) at the time of application.
  • No gaps or breaches in your residency status.

2

Gather Required Documents

  • Valid passport.
  • Current Irish Residence Permit (IRP) card.
  • Proof of continuous residence in Ireland (tax records, utility bills, rental agreements, or bank statements).
  • Letter requesting Ireland Lifetime Stay Permit explaining your eligibility and continuous residence.

3

Submit Your Application

  • Send your application by post to Immigration Service Delivery (ISD).
  • If approved, you will receive Full Residency Rights in Ireland permission endorsed in your passport.

Renewing Stamp 5

Stamp 5 is “Without Condition As To Time,” meaning it does not require periodic renewal. However, if you renew your passport, you must transfer the Work and Live Permit Ireland permission to your new passport.

Common Reasons for Stamp 5 Rejections & How to Avoid Them?

  • Insufficient residency history
    Ensure you meet the full eight-year requirement before applying.
  • Gaps in legal residence
    If you overstayed a visa at any point, your application may be refused.
  • Expired residence permit
    Ensure your current immigration permission is valid at the time of application.

Does No-Time-Limit Irish Residency Lead to Irish Citizenship?

While Ireland Lifetime Stay Permit grants indefinite residence, it does not automatically lead to citizenship. However, it strengthens a naturalization application, as you will have already met the residency requirements for Irish citizenship.

  • Have resided in Ireland for at least five years in the last nine years, including one continuous year immediately before applying.
  • Show proof of good character and financial stability.
  • Submit a citizenship application to the Department of Justice.

Work and Live Permit Ireland is one of the most valuable immigration permissions in Ireland, granting indefinite residency without renewal requirements. It is an excellent option for long-term residents who want to secure their future in Ireland without worrying about visa renewals.
While it does not grant automatic citizenship, it makes the naturalization process easier by demonstrating long-term commitment to living in Ireland. If you qualify for Full Residency Rights in Ireland, it is highly recommended to apply as soon as you meet the eligibility criteria to enjoy its permanent residency benefits.