Irish Visa FAQ
Plain-English answers for non-EU workers in Ireland. Always verify with the Department of Justice (ISD) or an immigration solicitor.
Can I change employer on a Critical Skills permit?
Yes, but only after 9 months with your first employer. You can change to a job within the same occupation classification. Your new employer must apply for a permit reissue — you cannot start the new job until you receive it. If you are made redundant, notify the Department of Enterprise (DETE) within 4 weeks. You then have 6 months to find a new employer. Source: enterprise.gov.ie
When do I need to renew my IRP card?
Apply up to 12 weeks before it expires. Do not wait until the last minute. Renewals are online only through the Department of Justice (ISD) portal at irishimmigration.ie. You must be physically in Ireland to apply. The fee is 300 euro for most permissions. Processing times vary by stamp category and change frequently — check the live table on the website before making travel plans. Source: irishimmigration.ie
Can my spouse work in Ireland if I have a Critical Skills permit?
Yes. Your spouse or de-facto partner is eligible for Stamp 1G, which allows them to work for any employer without needing their own employment permit. They must register with immigration and obtain their IRP card after arriving. Depending on their nationality, they may need to apply for a visa or preclearance before travelling. Source: citizensinformation.ie
What is the difference between Stamp 1 and Stamp 4?
Stamp 1 means you can only work for the employer named on your employment permit. Stamp 4 means you can work for any employer in Ireland without needing a permit at all. Critical Skills Employment Permit holders can apply for Stamp 4 after 21 months of employment. General Employment Permit holders can apply after 5 years (60 months) of consecutive valid permits and lawful employment. Source: citizensinformation.ie
What is emergency tax and how do I fix it?
Emergency tax is applied when your employer cannot get a Revenue Payroll Notification (RPN) for you. This usually happens because you have not given them your PPSN, or your job is not registered with Revenue. To fix it: get your PPSN, log in to myAccount at revenue.ie, go to PAYE Services and add your new job. Once your employer downloads your RPN, correct tax deductions apply automatically. Any overpaid tax is refunded through your next payslip. If you have already left the job, claim the refund directly through myAccount. Source: revenue.ie
Read full guide →How do I register for an IRP card in Ireland?
All non-EEA nationals must register with the immigration registration office in the area where they live. In Dublin, this is the Burgh Quay office. Outside Dublin, check irishimmigration.ie for your local registration office. You must register as soon as possible after arrival. Delay can affect future residency or citizenship applications. Bring your passport, proof of address, and employment permit. Source: irishimmigration.ie
What is the minimum salary for a Critical Skills permit in 2026?
From 1 March 2026: 40,904 euro per year if your occupation is on the Critical Skills Occupations List and you hold a degree or higher qualification. 36,848 euro per year if you meet the same criteria but graduated within the last 12 months. 68,911 euro per year if your occupation is not on the Critical Skills List but is also not on the Ineligible List. Public sector roles follow the relevant pay agreement. Always check enterprise.gov.ie before applying, as these figures are reviewed annually. Source: enterprise.gov.ie
What happens to my permit if I lose my job?
On a Critical Skills permit, notify DETE within 4 weeks of dismissal. You have 6 months to find alternative employment. If your old job title is no longer eligible, a new Critical Skills application will still be considered if you have a 2-year offer with the same title. On a General Employment permit, similar redundancy rules apply, but you must submit a new permit application for any new employer. If you cannot find a job within 6 months, contact the Department of Justice to confirm your immigration status. Source: enterprise.gov.ie