Immigration Law at Ireland
Immigration law in Ireland is governed by a mix of national legislation and EU regulations, depending on the nationality of the individual (EU/EEA vs. non-EU). Here’s a breakdown of the key components:
🇮🇪 Key Laws and Authorities
Primary Law: Immigration Act 1999, Immigration Act 2004, and International Protection Act 2015.
Authority: Immigration Service Delivery (ISD), under the Department of Justice.
EU nationals follow rules under EU Freedom of Movement.
🔑 Visa and Entry
Non-EU/EEA nationals generally require a visa to enter Ireland.
Visa types include: Tourist, Student, Work (e.g., Critical Skills, General Employment), Join Family, Business.
EU/EEA/Swiss nationals do not need a visa and can live and work freely.
🏠 Residence Permits / Registration
Non-EU nationals staying more than 90 days must register with the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) and get an IRP card (Irish Residence Permit).
Residence permission types include:
Stamp 1: Work
Stamp 2: Study
Stamp 3: Dependents/spouses
Stamp 4: Long-term residency or family reunification
💼 Work and Employment
Employment Permit is required for most non-EU nationals.
Two major schemes:
Critical Skills Employment Permit (for high-demand occupations)
General Employment Permit (for other eligible jobs)
Some permit holders can apply for Stamp 4 after two years, allowing full residency rights without permit renewal.
🛂 Asylum and Refugees
Governed by the International Protection Act 2015.
Ireland provides asylum, subsidiary protection, or permission to remain based on individual assessments.
The International Protection Office (IPO) handles applications.
📆 Naturalization
Eligible after 5 years of legal residence (3 years for spouses of Irish citizens).
Must apply to the Department of Justice and show good character, continuous residence, and intention to stay.
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