Ireland has formally opened applications for its new Temporary Protection Transition Scheme (TPTS), giving tens of thousands of Ukrainian nationals and other beneficiaries of EU Temporary Protection a pathway to remain in the State once the EU-wide emergency regime ends. From 30 September 2026, eligible applicants can file online through the Immigration Service Delivery (ISD) portal for a Stamp 4 permission that will be granted for two years and is renewable. Stamp 4 confers the right to live, work and set up a business in Ireland without the need for an employment permit. The scheme is designed for those who have established significant ties since arriving after Russia’s 2022 invasion—many of whom are already in employment or higher education. Applicants must show six months’ lawful residence under Temporary Protection, proof of accommodation and income, and, where relevant, an employment contract or enrolment in studies. Family members who joined the beneficiary in Ireland are included, provided they also held Temporary Protection. While EU Member States recently agreed to prolong Temporary Protection until March 2028, the Irish Government wants to offer certainty and reduce future processing backlogs by encouraging an orderly transition to mainstream immigration categories. Successful TPTS applicants will move directly onto the Stamp 4 register and immediately become eligible to sponsor family reunification under the normal rules, apply for Irish citizenship after the required residence period, and access social supports on the same basis as other Stamp 4 holders. For employers, the change removes the need to secure individual work permits for staff who transfer to Stamp 4, easing compliance obligations and allowing greater flexibility in role changes and promotions. HR departments are being advised to audit their workforce to identify colleagues on Temporary Protection and support them in gathering the required documentation—especially payslips, tax statements and proof of address. ISD has urged applicants to read the detailed guidance, submit complete files, and avoid duplicate applications. Processing is expected to take six to eight weeks initially. Applicants who do not qualify for TPTS will continue to enjoy their existing Temporary Protection entitlements until at least March 2028, ensuring nobody falls out of lawful status during the transition period.
Source: Immigration Service Delivery
