Ireland is preparing a new legalization scheme for Ukrainians with temporary protection. Starting in September 2026, some refugees will be able to apply for the Stamp 4 residence permit, which opens access to work, business, and future citizenship in the country. This was reported by the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform of Ireland.
Stamp 4 in Ireland gives Ukrainians the right to long-term residence
The new program has been named the Temporary Protection Transition Scheme.
It involves issuing a Stamp 4 permit for a period of two years with the possibility of extension for another two years.
Stamp 4 is considered one of the most comprehensive types of residence permit in Ireland. It allows for official employment without a separate permit, starting a business, and accessing most public services.
One of the main advantages of the new status will be the ability to count this period of residence towards naturalization.
In other words, Ukrainians will be able to get closer to obtaining Irish citizenship, which was not possible under the temporary protection status.
What conditions must be met to obtain Stamp 4
The Irish government has already outlined the main criteria for participation in the scheme.
To obtain the new permit, several conditions must be simultaneously met:
- Have lived in Ireland for at least one year under temporary protection
- Have been working or self-employed for at least six months
- Have an annual income of at least €29,432
- Not be residing in public or social housing
The scheme may also extend to family members of the applicant who lived in Ireland under temporary protection.
Ireland aims to encourage the employment of Ukrainians
The Irish government explains that the new system is intended to help Ukrainians integrate more actively into the labor market and transition to self-sufficient living without state support.
Additionally, the scheme should provide people with more certainty ahead of the expiration of temporary protection in the EU, which is currently set to last until 2027.
Against the backdrop of discussions in Europe regarding the future of Ukrainian refugees, Ireland has become one of the first countries to offer a concrete mechanism for transitioning to a long-term residency status.
It is worth noting that Ireland is preparing a financial support mechanism for Ukrainians who wish to voluntarily return home.