Ireland Stamp 3: 2026 Guide to Dependant Residence
Stamp 3 is an initial residence permission for certain dependants and family members joining a resident. It permits residence but does not carry the right to work. It is common for dependants of permission types other than the CSEP, and status can sometimes change later.
Stamp 3: Key Facts At-a-Glance
Below is a summary of processing times, statutory criteria, and typical point thresholds for Indian applicants pursuing the Stamp 3 (Ireland).
| Visa Metric | Details & Requirements |
|---|---|
| Visa Subclass | Stamp 3 (Family - dependant residence) |
| Avg. Processing Time | Registration on arrival (indicative) Months |
| Government Fees | INR EUR 300 IRP registration (INR 27,600 approx.) |
| English Language Min | Not applicable |
| Visa Validity | Tied to the sponsor (no employment) |
Why Apply for this Visa Path?
- Join the family: reside in Ireland with the resident family member.
- Recognised dependant status: a formal permission for dependants.
- Potential to evolve: status can change in some cases over time.
Detailed Entry Requirements
To apply under this Ireland visa track from India, your credentials must fulfill the following regulatory criteria:
- 1Eligible sponsor: A resident meeting the income and accommodation requirements.
- 2Dependency/relationship: Evidence of the qualifying family relationship or dependency.
- 3Supporting documents: Identity and relationship documentation.
Step-by-Step Filing Workflow
Every applicant from Bangalore/India follows this standardized workflow to file their visa application securely:
Confirm the route
Establish whether Stamp 3 is the applicable permission for the dependant.
Assemble evidence
Compile relationship and sponsor financial documents.
Lodge and register
Apply and register for the Stamp 3 permission.
Review work options
Assess whether a change of status to a work-permitted Stamp is possible later.
Verify Ireland immigration rules directly from official government sources.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are critical questions and details regarding target timelines and scores for this visa path.
What is Stamp 3 in Ireland?
Stamp 3 is a residence permission granted to dependants, non-working spouses or partners, and certain visitors and volunteers. It allows you to live in Ireland but does not permit employment or self-employment, which distinguishes it from Stamp 1 and Stamp 1G.
Can I work on Stamp 3?
No. Stamp 3 does not allow you to work. Many holders - particularly spouses of General Employment Permit holders - later switch to a working stamp by obtaining their own employment permit or through a change in the sponsor’s status.
How do I move from Stamp 3 to a working stamp?
Usually by securing a job offer and applying for your own employment permit, which leads to Stamp 1, or through your sponsor moving to Critical Skills or Stamp 4 (which can open Stamp 1G for you). We map the fastest route to work rights.
How is Stamp 3 different from Stamp 1G?
Stamp 3 does not allow work; Stamp 1G allows full-time work without a permit. Spouses of Critical Skills holders typically get Stamp 1G, while spouses of some other permit holders get Stamp 3 - a key reason permit type matters for families.
Check Your Ireland Visa Eligibility
Submit your details for this specific Stamp 3 visa track. Our Bangalore team (Koramangala HQ) led by Director Ms. Nahid Hussain will evaluate your credentials and reply directly on WhatsApp with your exact points audit.