Stamp 1 vs Stamp 4: which Irish visa is right for you?
Two immigration permissions: Stamp 1 lets you work for a specific employer (tied to a permit), while Stamp 4 lets you live and work without an employment permit - the goal most permit holders work toward.
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | Stamp 1 Immigration Permission (Stamp 1) | Stamp 4 Immigration Permission (Stamp 4) |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Temporary | Settlement-track residence |
| Who it's for | People allowed to work or run a business in Ireland on the basis of an employment permit or business scheme. | Residents who can live and work in Ireland without an employment permit, e.g. after a CSEP or as family of an Irish national. |
| Government cost | ~€300 IRP registration card | ~€300 IRP registration card |
| Processing time | Issued at registration; book via ISD | Varies by route (e.g. CSEP support letter, family decision) |
| Length of stay | Tied to the underlying permit (typically up to 2 years, renewable) | Typically up to 5 years, renewable |
| Where to apply | Register in person/online with ISD after arrival | Apply to ISD; register an IRP card |
| Work rights | Work for the employer named on your permit only | Work or run a business without an employment permit |
| Pathway to PR | Time on Stamp 1 counts toward Stamp 4 long term residence after 5 years. | Stamp 4 supports long term residence and citizenship by naturalisation. |
Which is right for you?
Stamp 1 Immigration Permission (Stamp 1)
People allowed to work or run a business in Ireland on the basis of an employment permit or business scheme.
Full Stamp 1 guide →Stamp 4 Immigration Permission (Stamp 4)
Residents who can live and work in Ireland without an employment permit, e.g. after a CSEP or as family of an Irish national.
Full Stamp 4 guide →Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, Stamp 1 or Stamp 4?
On indicative 2025-26 government costs, Stamp 1 Immigration Permission (Stamp 1) is the lowest at ~€300 IRP registration card. Government fees change periodically - confirm before applying.
What's the main difference between Stamp 1 and Stamp 4?
Stamp 1 Immigration Permission (Stamp 1) is for people allowed to work or run a business in Ireland on the basis of an employment permit or business scheme. Stamp 4 Immigration Permission (Stamp 4) is for residents who can live and work in Ireland without an employment permit, e.g. after a CSEP or as family of an Irish national.