Before traveling to the Republic of Ireland, please check whether you need a visa and what type. Check our page on entry conditions/visas to find out more about the details related to temporary and permanent stay in Ireland.

Read more here

Please visit the ISD website for details on the registration process for those registering for the first time, renewing their permission to remain, or changing their immigration status (e.g., from Student Permission Stamp 2 to Employee/Hosting Agreement Holder Permission Stamp 1).

 Key Points for First-Time Registrations:

• In-Person Registration: Starting July 8, 2024, first-time registrations for residents of Cork and Limerick must be completed in person at the Burgh Quay Registration Office in Dublin.
• Appointment Scheduling: Appointments can be made by calling the dedicated helpline at Freephone 1800 800 630 after arriving in Ireland. The number is not accessible from outside Ireland or via non-Irish telephone networks.
• Required Information: When calling to make an appointment, have your passport details and a valid email address ready. Operators are available Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm (excluding public holidays).

Key Points Following a Successful Appointment Booking:

• Confirmation Email: Expect an automatic confirmation email within 24 hours. If not received, contact immigrationsupport@justice.ie with 'CNR' in the subject line for assistance.

Key Points for Attending an Appointment for all non EEA vsitors, for more than 90 days in Ireland :

• IRP Card Delivery: After successful registration, your new IRP card will be sent to your home address within 15 business days.

Key Points for Renewals:

• Online Renewal: Starting July 8, 2024, residents of Cork and Limerick must apply online for IRP renewals or permission changes through the Irish Immigration Service Online Portal.
• Application Timing: Renewal applications, including changes in stamp category, can be submitted up to 12 weeks beforethe current permit expires to ensure sufficient processing time.

Key Points Before Renewing Online:

• Set Up Account: Create an online account on the Irish Immigration Service Online Portal.
• Prepare Documents: Check required documents and have clear digital copies ready.
• Payment Details: Have credit or debit card details ready for the €300 registration fee, if applicable.

Key Points for Applying Online:

• Step-by-Step Guidance: The Irish Immigration Service Online Portal guides you through logging in, selecting the Registration Renewal form, starting your application, uploading documents, paying the fee (if applicable), and submitting your application.

Key Points Following an Application Submission:

• Confirmation Email: You will receive an automatic email with your application number and payment receipt details. 
• Processing Order: Applications are processed in the order of submission. You can view the current submission date being processed online.
• You will be informed via email if your application is successful (IRP card sent within 15 business days).

Additional Information Answers to frequently asked questions about registration can be found here. 

If there any further queries about these changes and processes, please contact immigrationsupport@justice.ie.

Full document, of June 2024, can be accessed here: 

With effect from 04 November 2024, online renewals of permissions from all applicants nationwide are submitted using the ISD online renewal portal. Applicants will not need to attend the Burgh Quay Registration Office in person to renew an immigration permission, unless it is deemed necessary.

Please check the immigration website for more information on renewals

Find out more about the key immigration arrangements for foreign academics and researchers carrying out research in Ireland, with a particular focus on the Fast Track Work Permit for Non-EU R&D (Hosting Agreement) Scheme.

Read more here

Social Security Number - PPS number

Your Personal Public Service (PPS)  number is a unique reference number that helps you to access social welfare benefits and information from public service agencies in Ireland, such as the Department of Social and Family Affairs, the Revenue Commissioners and the Health Service Executive.

All employees in Ireland have a PPS number for tax purposes. Therefore, if you intend working in Ireland, you must apply for a PPS number. Applications are made through your local social welfare office. You can find the location of your nearest social welfare office consulting the Department of Social Protection website.

You will need to take the following documentation along with you when you make your application:

• Passport
• Garda Registration Card
• Proof of Address (gas/electricity bill in your name or bank statement)
• Letter of reference from your academic establishment or from your employee

Social Security Entitlements

If you are thinking of coming to Ireland to live, work, or study it is important to be aware of your social security entitlements. There may be some significant differences between the system in Ireland and your home country so it will be worthwhile familiarising yourself with the system in advance. Information Services are available if you have any questions about entitlements.

Non-EEA students

Non-EEA students are not permitted to access state benefits. Non-EEA students are admitted to Ireland on the understanding that they will not make claims on State funds, irrespective of eligibility. You are urged to consult the new ‘Guidelines for degree programme students’ for further details.

Learn more about health insurance and medical care in Ireland for EU and non EU citizens.

Read more here

Learn more about the research agencies, research centres and funding opportunities. These will highlight the opportunities for researchers at all stages to carry out research in Ireland.

Read more here

Learn about the career development services, information and tools which are available to support and advise researchers.

Read more here