What is Stamp 1 permission in Ireland?

Stamp 1 is an immigration permission granted to non-EEA nationals who have been issued an employment permit to work in Ireland. It is the standard immigration stamp for those holding a Critical Skills Employment Permit, General Employment Permit, or other work-related permits. Stamp 1 permission is specific and restrictive: it allows the holder to work only for the employer named on the employment permit and only in the role specified.

If a Stamp 1 holder wishes to change employer, they must obtain a new employment permit before commencing work with the new employer. Working for an employer other than the one named on the permit, or in a different role, is a breach of immigration conditions and can have serious consequences including refusal of future permit applications.

Stamp 1 is granted for the duration of the employment permit, typically one to two years initially. It must be renewed when the employment permit is renewed. Holders of Stamp 1 must register with immigration authorities and obtain an IRP card. After the qualifying period (two years for Critical Skills permit holders, five years for General Employment Permit holders), Stamp 1 holders may apply to change to Stamp 4, which allows unrestricted employment.

This is general information only, not legal advice. Consult a registered immigration solicitor for advice specific to your situation.