COVID-19: Suspension of visa processing extended

The Irish government has announced that it will continue to suspend the processing of new entry visa applications at Irish embassies, consulates and visa processing centers around the world.

Key Points:

• The current extension will remain in effect until further notice.
• The suspension affects all visa-required nationals seeking to apply for an entry visa, including employees with approved employment permits still needing an entry visa.
• Employers are encouraged to remind affected employees that they will not be able to apply for visas at this time.

Background: All non-EEA nationals must apply for an employment permit to work in Ireland. Certain nationalities must apply for an entry visa to enter Ireland to commence work. Once in Ireland, all non-EEA nationals must apply for an Irish Residence Permit to register their permission to reside.

Analysis & Comments: The Irish government extended the suspension in order to mitigate the spread of the COVID-19 virus. The extension means that employees from visa-required countries who hold an approved employment permit will not be able to apply for an entry visa at this time. Certain emergency entry visa applications will be accepted, including for urgent business-critical cases, healthcare professionals or immediate family members of Irish nationals. The Irish government has announced that anyone coming into Ireland, with some exceptions based on purpose of entry, will be required to restrict their movements or self-isolate on arrival for 14 days.

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