Compare Ireland visas side by side
Picking between two similar routes is where most people get stuck. These guides put the most-confused Irish visas next to each other - cost, processing time, work rights and the pathway to permanent residence.
Guides
5 comparisons
Source
irishimmigration.ie
Updated
June 2026
CSEP vs GEPCritical Skills Employment Permit vs General Employment PermitStamp 1 vs Stamp 4Stamp 1 Immigration Permission vs Stamp 4 Immigration PermissionC Visa vs D VisaShort Stay 'C' Visa vs Long Stay 'D' VisaSpouse of Irish vs De Facto PartnerJoin Spouse/Civil Partner of an Irish National vs De Facto Partner of an Irish NationalSTEP vs IIPStart-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP) vs Immigrant Investor Programme (IIP)
Figures are indicative for 2025-26 and government fees and rules change. Confirm current costs and processing times at irishimmigration.ie before applying. General information only - not immigration advice.