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Family & join-family visas

Irish Spouse or Civil Partner of an Irish National

Permission for the spouse or civil partner of an Irish citizen to live and work in Ireland, usually granted as Stamp 4 with broad rights of residence.

Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
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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
Spouse/Civil Partner of Irish National Scheme
Route type
Family immigration permission (typically Stamp 4)
Permission granted
Stamp 4 - live and work without an employment permit
Key test
Evidence of a valid, committed relationship and genuine cohabitation

Who it is for

  • Non-EEA spouses or civil partners of Irish citizens
  • People already in Ireland on another stamp who marry or form a civil partnership with an Irish citizen
  • People who entered on a 'D' Join Family visa as the spouse of an Irish citizen

Requirements

  • Marriage or civil partnership with an Irish citizen
  • Evidence of a valid and committed relationship
  • Evidence that you are genuinely living together
  • Good character and compliance with previous immigration conditions

What you can do

  • Live in Ireland with your Irish spouse or civil partner
  • Work or be self-employed without an employment permit (Stamp 4)
  • Build reckonable residence towards naturalisation (3 years if married to/in civil partnership with an Irish citizen)

How to apply

  • Visa-required applicants abroad apply for a 'D' Join Family visa; others apply for preclearance where required
  • Applicants already in the State apply to Immigration Service Delivery under the scheme
  • Provide marriage/civil partnership certificate and evidence of a genuine relationship and cohabitation

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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