Introduction
In a groundbreaking move, the Ministers for Justice and Enterprise, Trade and Employment have announced a significant change affecting the spouses and partners of General Employment Permit (GEP) and Intra-Corporate Transferee (ICT) Irish Employment Permit holders. From 15th May 2024, eligible spouses and partners, who have been granted family reunification under the Non-EEA Family Reunification Policy, will now receive a Stamp 1G permission instead of the traditional Stamp 3. This new status allows them to take up employment in Ireland without needing a separate Employment Permit.
Expansion of Eligibility
This change also extends to spouses and partners of Critical Skills Employment Permit (CSEP) holders and Researchers on a Hosting Agreement, who are currently on a Stamp 3. They too can now transition to a Stamp 1G, further broadening the scope of individuals who can benefit from this enhanced permission.
While the permission type has changed, the application process for eligible spouses and partners wishing to join their family members in Ireland remains unchanged.
Transition for Current Residents
For those already residing in Ireland with a Stamp 3 endorsed on their current Irish Residence Permit (IRP) card, there is no need to apply to the Registration Office to change their status. Their permission to remain in the state has been automatically varied to Stamp 1G conditions. This exceptional measure eliminates the need for a new application, simplifying the transition.
Immediate Employment Opportunities
Eligible individuals with a current Stamp 3 IRP can now engage in employment immediately. They can present a specific letter along with their current IRP card to prospective employers, clarifying their new permissions under the Stamp 1G conditions. This temporary administrative arrangement is valid until 15th May 2025, by which time all eligible individuals will have renewed their IRP cards to Stamp 1G.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for this change, the following criteria must be met as of 15th May 2024:
- Be a spouse or partner of a GEP, ICT permit holder, CSEP holder, Researcher on a Hosting Agreement, Non-Consultant Hospital Doctor (NCHD) on a Multi-Site General Employment Permit, or someone who previously held these permits and now has Stamp 4 permission.
- Have permission to reside in Ireland under the Non-EEA Family Reunification Policy.
- Be legally resident in Ireland on a valid Stamp 3.
- Wish to engage in employment in Ireland.
- Be a non-EU/EEA/UK/Swiss national.
Exclusions
This change does not apply to:
- Family members other than spouses or partners of Employment Permit holders.
- Spouses or partners on different types of permission such as visitor conditions or Stamp 2 (study).
- Spouses or partners without permission to be in the state.
- Stamp 3 holders not associated with an Employment Permit holder.
Benefits of Stamp 1G Permission
The Stamp 1G permission allows:
- Employment in the state without an employment permit.
- Undertaking courses of study.
- However, it does not permit the establishment or operation of a business or self-employment.
Renewal of the Stamp 1G registration is required annually, and after five years, individuals may be eligible for Stamp 4 permission.
Conclusion
The introduction of the Stamp 1G permission not only alleviates the administrative burden on families but also empowers them economically. Spouses and partners who previously faced restrictions under the Stamp 3 permission can now actively contribute to the workforce, enhancing their own career prospects and integrating more fully into Irish society.
By simplifying the process and expanding employment opportunities, Ireland continues to reinforce its commitment to attracting and retaining global talent.
Written by Simon Carletti, PR and Creative Supervisor
