How to Register for Your Irish Residence Permit in 2026: A Guide for International Students

International students and non-EU nationals arriving in Ireland must register with Immigration Service Delivery (ISD) within 90 days. This guide outlines how to secure your Irish Residence Permit (IRP), book appointments at Burgh Quay, and prepare for biometric processing. Follow these steps to finalize your permission to stay and understand your residency Stamp category.

Know Your Deadline

You must register your permission within 90 days of arriving in Ireland.

Understand Who is Responsible

As of January 13, 2025, the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) no longer handles registration. First-time registration for all residents in the Republic of Ireland is now handled by Immigration Service Delivery (ISD).

Book Your Appointment

You must book an appointment before you visit. There is no fee to book. You must make an appointment with the Registration Office.

• If you live in Dublin, Kildare, Meath, Wicklow, Cork, or Limerick: Book an appointment through the official Immigration Service Deliver (ISD) online portal or call their Freephone support number.
• If you live in any other county: Contact your local regional ISD immigration office directly to book.
• Cost to book: There is no fee to book the appointment itself.

Prepare for Your Visit

• Location: If you live in Dublin, Kildare, Meath, Wicklow, Cork, or Limerick, go to the Burgh Quay office in Dublin.
  • Registration Office in Dublin: 13-14 Burgh Quay, Dublin 2, D02 XK70.
• All other students must go to their local regional office.
• What to bring: 
  • Valid passport
  • College Letter of Acceptance (LOA)
  • Proof of paid tuition fees
  • Proof of financial support (€10,000 for courses longer than 8 months)
  • Private medical insurance document
• Cost: The IRP fee is can cost up to €300. You must pay by credit or debit card at the office. Cash is not accepted.

What Happens at the Appointment

The visit usually takes about 30 minutes. Here is what to expect:

• Check-in: Check in at the Registration office and wait to be called..
• Review: The officer will review your documents.
• Biometrics: Your photograph and fingerprints will be taken.
• Payment: You will pay the fee if applicable.

Receiving Your Card

After your appointment, your photograph and details are used to create your Irish Residence Permit (IRP) card. This card proves you are living in Ireland legally.

• The card will be mailed to the address you provided.
• It typically arrives within 10 working days.

For more information about the Irish Residence Permit (IRP), please visit Ireland’s Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration website.