Pathway to Permanent Residency in Ireland for Indian Students: A Step-by-Step Guide

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24 Jun

Ireland is encouraging young professionals to consider making Ireland their permanent place of residence. Towards this end, it offers a serious student a chance to get the permanent residence status after 5 years of work experience.

Assuming you get a job that is categorized as Critical Skill – You can apply for Critical Skills Employment Permit which is valid for 2 years. Post that you can make a transition to Stamp 4 visa, which allows you to live and work in Ireland without needing an employment permit. After holding a Stamp 4 visa for a specified period, usually 3 years, you can apply for long-term residency.

Overall Pathway to Permanent Residency for Indian Students in Ireland:

1. Post Study Work Visa:

Stamp 1G Visa: After completing your studies in Ireland, apply for the Stamp 1G Post Study Work Visa. This visa allows you to stay and work full-time in Ireland for up to 2 years.

2. Employment Permits:

Critical Skills Employment Permit: If you secure a job in a sector identified as critical (e.g., ICT, engineering, healthcare), you can apply for this permit. It is valid for 2 years and is a fast-track route to permanent residency.
General Employment Permit: For jobs not on the critical skills list, you can apply for this permit. It is initially issued for up to 2 years and can be renewed.

3. Work Experience:

Minimum Duration: Accumulate at least 2 years of work experience on a Critical Skills Employment Permit or 5 years on a General Employment Permit.

4. Long-Term Residency:

Eligibility: After 5 years of legal residence in Ireland (which can include time spent studying and on post-study visas), you can apply for long-term residency.
Application: Submit your application to the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) with proof of residence, employment, and other required documents.

5. Permanent Residency:

Stamp 4 Visa: Once granted long-term residency, you will receive a Stamp 4 visa, allowing you to live and work in Ireland without requiring an employment permit.
Indefinite Leave to Remain: After a further period on Stamp 4, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency, granting you indefinite leave to remain in Ireland.

6. Citizenship: