IRELAND: New Deadline for Stamp 4 Applications for Critical Skills Employment Permit Holders

June 29, 2018

Effective 25th June 2018, Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation (DBEI) has advised that applications for Stamp 4 status must be submitted twelve weeks in advance of the expiry of the current Critical Skills Employment Permit (CSEP). Previously, the Stamp 4 application deadline was 6-8 weeks before expiry.

The DBEI will process all applications and then hold them on file until the employee has reached the minimum 21 months residence in Ireland required to qualify for Stamp 4 residence. This will reduce the instance of permits expiring while the Stamp 4 application is in processing meaning a new CSEP is required

What is Stamp 4?

Stamp 4 indicates permission to stay in Ireland for a specified period. It allows a holder of a CSEP for two years, or a general employment permit for five years, to remain in Ireland for a further two years (renewable) and work without a work permit, after their CSEP has expired.

To qualify, applicants must be resident and working in Ireland for at least 21 months out of the 24 months validity of the CSEP.

The employee’s details in the Stamp 4 application must be the same as for the original CSEP – job title, duties, location and remuneration. If these details have changed it could lead to a refusal, and a new Critical Skills Employment Permit would be required.

If the applicant’s remuneration is lower than for the original CSEP, the application may be refused outright. If remuneration is significantly higher, an explanation should be provided, as it could be seen as a new role.

Our Advice

Companies intending to apply for Stamp 4 status for their CSEP holders should ensure they contact their Newland Chase immigration specialist at least 16 weeks before the CSEP expires.

For general advice and information on immigration and business travel to Ireland, please email us at [email protected].