Everything You Need to Know About Ireland’s IRP Card

Intro

Moving to a new country for studies is exciting, and Ireland is a top choice for international students. One of the first steps after arrival is obtaining your Irish Residence Permit (IRP), formerly known as the GNIB card until 2017. This essential document proves your legal permission to stay in Ireland and acts like Ireland’s version of an Aadhaar card, serving as a key identity and residence record. Here’s a quick guide to what it is, who needs it and how to get it.

‍

What is the IRP

• The IRP (Irish Residence Permit) is a registration certificate issued by Immigration Service Delivery (ISD) in Ireland  

• It shows that your immigration permission to stay in Ireland has been registered, including the type of permission you have (for example, study, work etc.), usually represented by a stamp number

• Importantly, the IRP is not an identity card; it does not function as proof of citizenship or replaces your passport. It’s purely an official certificate proving your legal status in Ireland as a non-EU

‍

Who Needs the IRP

• If you are a non-EU/EEA/Swiss national and you intend to stay in Ireland for more than 90 days, you will need to register with immigration and obtain an IRP  

• You must be aged 16 or older to register for the IRP  

• Students should secure long-term accommodation first, as the IRP will be posted to your address in Ireland. Short-term or temporary stays (like hostel/AirBnB) are not accepted for the registration address requirement.

‍

How to Apply / Register

• First-Time Registration: You must register your immigration permission with Immigration Service Delivery (ISD) within 90 days of your arrival in Ireland

• Processing Time: After attending your registration appointment, it typically takes 10–15 working days to receive your new IRP card by post

• Potential Delays: During peak periods, such as the start of the academic year, processing times can extend up to 6 weeks

• Renewal: You can apply to renew your IRP up to 12 weeks before its expiry date, provided all required documents are in order

• Typical Duration: For students (Stamp 2), the IRP is usually valid for 12 to 15 months, aligning with the academic year or the expected duration of your course

‍

‍

Process:

‍Prepare Documents:

• Passport

• Proof of enrollment

• Proof of Irish address (long-term)

• Medical insurance

• €300 registration fee

‍Attend Appointment

• Officer verifies documents

• Photo and fingerprints taken

• Card is posted to your address (not issued on the spot)

‍Delivery (ISD)

• Dublin: Burgh Quay Registration Office

• Outside Dublin: Local immigration office

‍Onebounce can guide you through every step of obtaining your IRP

‍

IRP Do’s and Don’ts: Know Your Rights and Limits

‍What it allows:

• Legally demonstrates your right to be in Ireland under your specified immigration permission  

• Enables departure from and re-entry into Ireland without needing a separate visa, if your IRP is valid  

What it does not allow or change:

• It’s not an identification document

• It does not provide you with new rights beyond what your immigration permission allows (for example, you might have restrictions on working hours or employment type based on your student stamp)

‍

Smart IRP Practices: What Every Student Should Know

• Always carry your IRP card with you; you may be asked to present it to immigration officials or police if requested  

• If your IRP is lost, stolen or contains errors (like the wrong name/date of birth), report it immediately and request a replacement  

• If your address changes, notify immigration. The card is sent to your registered address, so keeping that updated is crucial  

• Start the renewal process at least a few weeks before expiry. Avoid gaps in your registration, as being out of status can lead to complications

• Know Your Work Restrictions: If you’re on a student visa (Stamp 2), there are limits on how many hours you can work during term time. Keep your IRP handy if your employer asks for proof of eligibility

‍

Final Word

For any student heading to Ireland, securing the IRP card isn’t just a bureaucratic formality; it’s the foundation for a legal stay, hassle-free mobility and peace of mind. With the right documents and awareness of deadlines, the process is straightforward.