Dependent permissions
People whose permission depends on an abusive spouse, partner or family member
What you get
- A confidential consultation about your situation and options
- Help gathering supporting evidence safely
- Preparation of a clear written application describing what has happened
About this service
Independent Permission – Victims of Domestic Abuse
If your permission to live in Ireland depends on a partner or family member who is abusing you, you can apply for your own independent immigration permission. ISD's guidelines exist so that no one has to stay in an abusive relationship to keep their right to live here. Applications are confidential, there's no application fee, and complete applications are processed without delay. We handle your application with care and discretion. Nobody should feel they have to stay in an abusive relationship to keep their immigration status. These guidelines give victims a way to secure their own permission, and we handle every application with care, discretion and respect.
€1229
Fixed fee
4
Areas we cover
6
Documents to prepare
5
Simple steps
Who it's for
Who this is for
Whether you're moving, hiring, staying or starting over, this is the place to begin.
Spouses and partners
Spouses and partners of Irish, EU and non-EEA nationals experiencing domestic abuse
At a glance
Eligibility
01
Linked permission
Your immigration permission is linked to the person abusing you
02
Legal residence
You're legally resident in Ireland (the guidelines don't cover people who are unlawfully resident)
03
Evidence
You can describe the abuse and provide supporting evidence where possible
04
Your own circumstances
You'll be assessed on your own circumstances, and the sponsor has no say in the decision
Our promise
What's included
Independent Permission – Victims of Domestic Abuse
€1229
Before you start
Documents you'll need
Tick each item as you gather it. Bring whichever apply to you.
Your preparation checklist
0 of 6 ready
Tap items as you go
You're fully prepared. Let's get you booked in.
5-step journey
How it works
- 1Step 1
We talk through your situation in confidence.
- 2Step 2
We help you gather the evidence that's available.
- 3Step 3
We prepare your application and submit it with "Domestic Abuse" in the subject line.
- 4Step 4
ISD processes complete applications without delay.
- Step 5
If approved, you register your independent Stamp 4 permission.
Good to know
Our fee
€1,229 VAT included.
Government fees
None. There's no application fee, and since September 2025 survivors granted independent permission don't pay the €300 registration fee.
Processing time
ISD processes complete applications without delay.
Help and support
If you're in danger, contact An Garda Síochána. Women's Aid (1800 341 900) and Men's Aid ((01) 554 3811) offer free, confidential support.
Who can apply
You can apply yourself, through a solicitor or through a representative.
Answers
Frequently asked questions
Many people's immigration permission in Ireland depends on a family relationship, such as being the spouse or partner of a worker or an Irish citizen. ISD's guidelines for victims of domestic abuse exist so that no one has to stay in an abusive relationship to keep their right to live in Ireland. People whose permission is linked to the person abusing them can apply for their own independent permission, usually Stamp 4, which lets them work without an employment permit. The application is made in writing to the Domestic Abuse unit of ISD's Domestic Residence and Permissions Division, by post or through the Customer Service Portal with "Domestic Abuse" as the subject. It describes what has happened, with whatever supporting evidence is available, such as protection, safety or barring orders, medical reports, Garda reports, or letters from the HSE or a domestic violence support organisation; a court order isn't essential. Applications are treated confidentially, the sponsor has no say in the decision, there's no application fee, and complete applications are processed without delay. Since September 2025, survivors granted independent permission don't pay the €300 registration fee. The guidelines don't cover people who are unlawfully resident. Anyone in danger should contact An Garda Síochána, and Women's Aid (1800 341 900) and Men's Aid ((01) 554 3811) offer free, confidential support.
Applications are treated in confidence, and the sponsor has no say in whether you can stay.
Yes. Stamp 4 lets you work without an employment permit.
Yes. Provide whatever evidence you can, such as medical reports or a letter from a support organisation, and describe what has happened.
ISD will set out the reasons and explain any other options. We'll help you consider your next steps.
Tell us about your children and their status. Family circumstances, especially children, are part of the application, and we'll advise on their permissions.
Your safety comes first. Contact An Garda Síochána or a support service such as Women's Aid or Men's Aid. We can work with you and your support worker on a safe way to apply.
Ready when you are
Get started with Independent Permission – Victims of Domestic Abuse
€1229
€1229
Independent Permission – Victims of Domestic Abuse