New residence permit to replace GNIB cards

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Ireland is replacing GNIB (certificate of registration) cards with new Irish Residence Permits in order to conform with European Union standards.

What does the change mean? New IRP cards will be issued starting Dec. 11, but foreign residents currently holding valid GNIB cards should wait until their cards expire before applying for the new IRP cards. 

• Implementation time frame: Immediate. The change took effect Dec. 11.
• Visas/permits affected: GNIB cards.
• Who is affected: Non-EU/EEA and non-Swiss nationals intending to stay in Ireland for more than 90 days.
• Impact on processing times: The Burgh Quay Immigration Registration Office in Dublin is currently experiencing high demand for appointments.
• Next steps: GNIB cards remain valid until their expiration and do not need to be replaced until they expire.

Background: The IRP is a credit-card sized registration certificate containing a microchip that proves its holder is registered with the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service. All non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals ages 16 and older who intend to stay in Ireland longer than 90 days must register for a residence permit with the appropriate immigration registration office. The government fee for the IRP is 300 euros.

BAL Analysis: Expatriate residents are reminded that they should carry their IRP card with them at all times and present it to immigration officers or police officers if requested. The card does not confer any new rights or entitlements or serve as a travel document, however. 

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group. For additional information, please contact ireland@bal.com.

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