Ireland Extends IRP Renewal Measures – Stamp 1 Holders Can Now Work While Awaiting Stamp 4 Despite Expired Permits

Ireland extends IRP renewal measures until August 31, 2026

Dublin, 23 July 2026 — Irish authorities have extended temporary relief measures for individuals facing significant delays in renewing their Irish Residence Permission (IRP) cards. Eligible applicants who submitted renewal requests before their current IRP expired can continue to travel, live, and work in Ireland until 31 August 2026, even with an expired card.

In a key update on 23 July 2026, officials clarified that Stamp 1 holders who have applied for Stamp 4 status may continue working while their application is being processed — even if both their Stamp 1 permission and associated work permit have expired.

Quick Facts: Ireland IRP Renewal Measures 2026

Feature	Details
Measure	Temporary relief for pending IRP renewal applicants
Effective Period	13 July 2026 – 31 August 2026
Eligible Individuals	Those who applied for renewal before expiry
Travel Rights	Permitted with expired IRP + ISD travel notice
Work Rights	Allowed to remain and work until 31 August 2026
Stamp 4 Update (23 July)	Stamp 1 applicants for Stamp 4 can work even if both permits expired
After 31 August 2026	Standard 12-week Notice to Employers policy resumes

Key Update: Stamp 1 → Stamp 4 Work Rights

As of 23 July 2026, holders of Stamp 1 permission who have applied for Stamp 4 can continue working pending finalisation of their Stamp 4 application — even if both their Stamp 1 status and work permit have expired in the interim.

Eligibility Conditions:

• The applicant’s Stamp 1 status and work permit must have been valid when the Stamp 4 application was submitted.

What the Measures Mean for IRP Holders

Travel with Expired IRP Card (Until 31 August 2026) IRP card holders with pending renewal applications can travel with an expired IRP card between 13 July and 31 August 2026, provided they:

• Applied to renew before the current IRP card expired.

• Print and carry the Immigration Service Delivery (ISD) travel notice.

• Check with their airline carrier to ensure acceptance of the travel notice.

Remaining in Ireland and Working (Until 31 August 2026) Individuals can remain in Ireland and continue to work until 31 August 2026, even if their IRP card expires, provided they:

• Have a valid employment permit (where applicable).

• Provide proof that they applied to renew their registration before expiry.

• Uploaded all required documents, including a valid employment permit (where applicable).

What Happens After 31 August 2026?

• The temporary measures end.

• The standard 12-week Notice to Employers policy resumes.

• Expired IRP cards can no longer be used for travel or re-entry without additional approval.

Background: Why Processing Times Are Increasing

IRP card processing times have risen significantly since late 2025 across all stamp categories. Current average times include approximately 17 weeks for Stamp 4 and 7–15 weeks for Stamp 1 (General Employment). The temporary measures aim to ease pressure on applicants and employers during this backlog.

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For the latest Ireland immigration updates, IRP renewal guidance, work permit news, and 2026 visa policy changes, visit: visasupdate.com/blog/categories/ireland

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