As part of efforts to slow the spread of COVID – 19 the Irish authorities have suspected the processing of visa applications. We would ask you to bear in mind that local restrictions in different jurisdictions may be in place in addition to Irish measures.
National restrictions on movement and business activity in Ireland have been further extended and the end / review date date has been pushed back to mid April.This will impact on the provision of immigration services in Ireland.
INIS Briefing follows:
COVID-19 VISA Arrangements
21 March 2020
As part of the combined efforts to tackle COVID-19 and to ensure customer safety, we have taken the decision to temporarily cease accepting new visa applications. This is effective from close of business 20th of March 2020. Increasing travel restrictions and the measures introduced as part of the Government’s efforts to interrupt the transmission of COVID-19 means that travel may not be possible and even if possible is not advisable unless essential. The situation will continue to be reviewed in consultation with the relevant authorities in the coming days.
While it will still be possible to apply for an Irish visa online in the normal manner, these temporary measures mean that applicants will not be able to complete their application process and we apologise for any inconvenience this might cause. Please note that any application made online will remain valid until such time as restrictions are lifted.
We intend to resume accepting applications as soon as safety concerns abate. Certain Priority/Emergency cases will continue to be processed and these include the following:
Emergency visa (e.g. Healthcare professionals, health researchers, and elderly care professionals);
Immediate family members of Irish citizens;
Persons legally resident in the State;
Persons entitled to avail of the provision of the EU Free Movement Directive.
If your application falls into one of these categories, you can apply on-line in the usual way. Once you’ve completed the on-line application, you should follow the instructions given on the summary page as to where you should submit your application.
