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Family & join-family visas

Irish Family Dependants of Residents and Permit Holders

Family reunification for the dependants and children of employment permit holders, researchers and other eligible residents, allowing them to join their sponsor and settle in Ireland.

Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
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Under review — check current rules

Sponsor income thresholds and dependency evidence requirements vary by category and are not fully stated here; verify current requirements in the Non-EEA Family Reunification Policy before publishing figures.

Important information

Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Ireland government website before you apply.
On this page
Official name
Family reunification for dependants (Non-EEA Family Reunification Policy)
Route type
Dependant / family reunification immigration permission
Eligible sponsors
Irish citizens, or residents holding Stamp 1, Stamp 4 or Stamp 5 (not Stamp 2 or Stamp 3)
Dependant stamp
Often Stamp 3 (no work); some minor children move to Stamp 1G at 16

Who it is for

  • Spouses, civil partners and minor children of eligible sponsors
  • Dependants of Critical Skills, General Employment Permit and ICT permit holders, and of researchers on hosting agreements
  • Certain dependent elderly relatives (who may instead be considered for Stamp 0)

Requirements

  • An eligible sponsor with Stamp 1, 4 or 5 permission, or an Irish citizen sponsor
  • Evidence of the family relationship and, where relevant, dependency
  • Ability of the sponsor to support dependants without recourse to public funds
  • Application in line with the Non-EEA Family Reunification Policy

What you can do

  • Reside in Ireland as the dependant of the sponsor
  • Stamp 3 holders cannot work; some spouses/partners of permit holders may access work permissions
  • Dependent minor children of certain permit holders can register on Stamp 1G at 16 and work without a permit

How to apply

  • Apply for a 'D' Join Family visa or preclearance from outside the State where required
  • Submit the Family Dependent application with relationship and dependency evidence
  • Register the dependant's permission with Immigration Service Delivery after arrival

Official sources

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.

Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.

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