Current Residence Card Replaced by Irish Residence Permit Card

Executive Summary

The current immigration residence card (known as GNIB card) in Ireland is being phased out and substituted by the Irish Residence Permit (IRP) card. The new card does not confer any new rights or entitlements.

The situation

Effective immediately, the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) card in Ireland is being phased out and substituted by the Irish Residence Permit (IRP) card. The new card does not confer any new rights or entitlements. It is simply a redesign of the GNIB card.

A closer look

• Card details. The IRP card features a new design, additional information such as a brief description of the immigration permission of the holder, and robust security and identity protection features, including a microchip with a copy of the holder's photo, fingerprints and personal details.
• Applications. Foreign nationals can apply for IRP cards as they applied for GNIB cards: in person at Burgh Quay for Dublin residents and at regional immigration offices if residing outside Dublin.
  • Dublin residents will receive their IRP card by mail within five to 10 business days after their appointment. The card will not be issued "on the spot", as was the case with GNIB cards. Residents outside Dublin will be given a date/time to return to the local registration office to collect their IRP card, as was the case previously.
• Fee. There is no change to the governmental registration fee - an IRP card costs EUR 300 per person every time the card is issued or renewed.
• Impact on non-European Economic Area nationals: All existing GNIB cards remain valid and there is no need to apply for an IRP card unless the GNIB card needs to be renewed. The Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service will not entertain IRP card applications unless there is a need to renew the existing GNIB card or it is a first-time registration.
• Updating information. IRP card holders are still required to update INIS regarding any change in personal details or circumstances.
• Background. Similarly to the GNIB card, the IRP card is not an identity card. It is a registration certificate and simply confirms that the holder is registered with immigration in Ireland and holds immigration permission. This card is only valid for Ireland and does not confer any rights of entry, residence or work in any other EU country. Visa required nationals will still require re-entry visas to re-enter Ireland. This card is not an entry document.

This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen or send an email to [email protected].