Travelling with IRO card that will expire during trip

[CatBrom]

Hello all,

I recently sent in a change of stamps from Stamp 2 to Stamp 1G on 29 September. I believe at the time the processing times were stated to be 3-4 weeks. I have heard that for right now it’s 5-6 weeks (anecdotally) but their website says 7-8 working weeks. I am very stressed out that my IRP card won’t come by the time I go on my trip as my card expires 31 December. I’m not sure if they will let me back into Ireland with an expired IRP card even if I can show them it’s been renewed etc. Does anyone know what I can do? I’ve sent INIS a few emails but no reply (not surprised).

[littlerr]

When are you travelling abroad and when are you coming back?

Permissions are automatically extended to 15 January. You are from a visa-free country so you can travel back to Ireland with the expired IRP card as long as you are back before 15 January.

However, one thing to note is that once they process your new IRP card, your old card becomes immediately invalid. Again, it shouldn’t be an issue for you as you don’t need a visa anyway to come back to Ireland, however, you should still make sure that you are prepared to answer any questions from the immigration (e.g. why your permission in the system is different from the card you hold; why do you travel abroad with an expired card etc). They won’t give you a hard time but you still need to be prepared and have any documentary proof ready if necessary.

[CatBrom]

I will be back after January 15th unfortunately, so I won't be able to avail of the extension. Currently, I am thinking if I don't get it in time that my partner will have to mail me my card as I am very concerned they won't let me back in the country otherwise.

[CatBrom]

As an update: I got the email for my IRP card today so I have about month now until I leave. Took only 5 weeks but some people’s applications took closer to 7 it sounds like. Unsure if they are trying to go faster now or if my two emails that I sent helped the process along.

[littlerr]

A straightforward online renewal should take no more than that amount of time. Hopefully the card will arrive before you leave.