Online updates introduced to reduce queues for GNIB registration

IMPACT – HIGH

What is the change? An online updating system has been implemented to better manage queues at the Garda National Immigration Bureau Registration Office in Dublin.

What does the change mean? The new system allows customers to go online and see updates of the available number of appointments for that day and should help eliminate wasted trips to the office for foreign nationals renewing their registration.

• Implementation time frame: Immediate.
• Visas/permits affected: Registration with GNIB.
• Who is affected: All non-EEA nationals who are required to register or who are renewing their registration.
• Impact on processing times: The system will reduce wait times. While customers are still served on a first-come, first-served basis and must wait for their ticket to be called, they will be able to view online how many tickets are available that day before going to the GNIB office.
• Business impact: The online system will save foreign employees time and reduce inconvenience.
• Next steps: Customers must still go to the office in person without an appointment, but they will now be able to view how many tickets remain available at the GNIB website: www.garda.ie. It will be updated three times a day at 9:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Background: The new system has been introduced to address overcrowding and reduce the frequency of customers being turned away after waiting to be served.
The office will issue tickets on a first-come, first-served basis based on the number of appointments available each day. The GNIB will update its website three times a day to indicate how many tickets remain for the day. Once the tickets are exhausted, customers arriving at the office will not be served and will be asked to return another day.

BAL Analysis: The ticketing system and online updates should greatly reduce headaches for foreign employees renewing registration, especially during busy holiday periods and the start of school semesters.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group in the United Kingdom. For additional information, please contact uk@bal.com.

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