As of 26 November 2025, children aged 16-18 of most Category B sponsors (ICT, CSEP, Researchers on Hosting Agreements, Full-Time Non-Locum Doctors) and certain Category C sponsors (GEP holders) will receive Stamp 1G permission and be able to work automatically without a separate work permit. These welcome changes were announced as part of a package of measures designed to update Ireland’s policy on non-EEA family reunification.
Some other measures within the package bring restrictions. Children over the age of 18 will no longer be eligible as family reunification dependants, even when enrolled in school full-time. These children should be able to now pursue a Stamp 2 or Stamp 2A to continue their education. Furthermore, some international employees included in Category C face higher income thresholds which may impact their ability to sponsor accompanying dependants.
The changes are effective immediately but further updates relating to dependants may be announced in the future. Permits Foundation will monitor how these changes impact our network and we will continue to press for reductions in the lengthy processing times for joining family members.
For more details, visit the Ireland page of our World Map which now includes a new icon to represent the fact that other family members now have employment access.
See also this explainer on the government website which covers the right to work for minor children of employment permit holders.