Changes to Immigration Permissions in Ireland
Recent updates in Irish immigration policies reflect a significant shift in how the country manages its asylum and migration systems. You can read about the full changes below.
For more information on Ireland immigration and bespoke advice for your immigration situation, reach out to one of our Immigration Advice Service (IAS) legal advisers today. Call us on +353 061 518 025.
End of Visa-Free Travel for South Africans and Botswanans
Ireland has ended visa-free travel for South African and Botswanan nationals. This move aims to tighten immigration controls and more effectively address irregular migration.
Effective 10 July 2024, South African and Botswanan nationals are required to obtain a visa to enter Ireland. A grace period is in place to accommodate travellers with pre-existing plans until 9 August 2024. During this period, individuals with pre-booked travel can enter Ireland without a visa, provided they present a valid passport and proof of their travel arrangements.
Page Contents
- End of Visa-Free Travel for South Africans and Botswanans
- Ireland Opt-in to the EU Asylum and Migration Pact
- New Employment Permits Act 2024
- Ukrainian Nationals to Require Valid Biometric Passport
- Reduced Welfare Payments for Ukrainian Refugees
- Registration Changes for Non-EU Residents in Cork and Limerick
Ireland Opt-in to the EU Asylum and Migration Pact
Ireland has confirmed its participation in the EU Asylum and Migration Pact, a significant development in its immigration policy. The Pact aims to create a more unified approach to managing migration across Europe by streamlining asylum procedures, enhancing border controls, and addressing the root causes of migration.
Key reforms under the Pact include replacing the International Protection Act 2015 with new legislation, legally binding timeframes for decision-making, accelerated processing for certain applicants, a focus on efficient returns, and a new solidarity mechanism for asylum seekers.
Minister for Justice Helen McEntee welcomed the decision. She said:
“The new requirements are introduced to bring Ireland into closer alignment with the Schengen Area and with the UK to ensure immigration controls are effective,”
New Employment Permits Act 2024 Modernises Ireland’s Work Permit System
The Employment Permits Act 2024, enacted on June 25, 2024, introduces major reforms to modernize Ireland’s employment permit system. Key changes include:
- Allowing General and Critical Skills Employment Permit holders to change employers after nine months
- introducing a seasonal employment permits scheme for non-EEA nationals to address short-term skill shortages
- Replacing the national newspaper job advertisement requirement for Labour Market Needs Test (LMNT) with postings on online platforms like EURES.
- The Act also grants the Minister authority to set permit conditions and swiftly adjust regulatory regulations to respond to labour market needs.
- These reforms aim to enhance worker protection, streamline processes, and efficiently fill critical skill gaps.
Ukrainian Nationals to Require Valid Biometric Passport
Starting 5 June 2024, Ukrainian nationals must present a valid biometric passport to enter Ireland, ending the temporary suspension that allowed entry with alternative documentation. This change aligns with section 4 of the Irish Immigration Act 2004 and moves Ireland from emergency measures towards a more sustainable immigration policy. Beneficiaries of temporary protection in Ireland should have a valid biometric passport for re-entry if travelling outside the country.
- Ukrainian nationals need a valid biometric passport to enter Ireland from 5 June 2024.
- Ensure beneficiaries of temporary protection have a biometric passport for re-entry.
Reduced Welfare Payments for Ukrainian Refugees
From 1 September 2024, state payments for Ukrainian refugees in Ireland will decrease from €232 to €38.80 per week. This adjustment aims to align Ireland’s support with other EU states. Critics argue this will lead to increased child poverty, as the majority of Ukrainian refugees in Ireland are women and children.
Registration Changes for Non-EU Residents in Cork and Limerick
As of 8 July 2024, non-EU residents in Cork and Limerick must travel to Dublin for first-time immigration registrations.
The move comes following the transfer of responsibilities from the Garda National Immigration Bureau to the Immigration Service Delivery (ISD). Renewals can be completed online, removing the need for in-person visits. This change is intended to free up Garda resources for operational duties and streamline immigration registration processes.
- Non-EU residents in Cork and Limerick must register at Burgh Quay, Dublin for first-time registrations from 8 July 2024.
- Use the ISD online portal for renewals of immigration permissions.
- Book registration appointments via the designated Freephone number.
How Can Immigration Advice Service (IAS) Help?
Understanding the Irish immigration system can be complicated. Immigration Advice Service supports you every step of the way, including navigating important regulatory updates.
We are experienced, sympathetic immigration lawyers with the expertise to manage your immigration application in Ireland.
For more information about the services we provide and how we can help you with your Ireland immigration needs, you can reach out to a member of our team today. Call us on +353 061 518 025 or contact us online.
Legal Disclaimer
The information provided is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we make every effort to ensure accuracy, the law may change, and the information may not reflect the most current legal developments. No warranty is given regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information, and we do not accept liability in such cases. We recommend consulting with a qualified lawyer at Immigration Advice Service before making any decisions based on the content provided.
Last modified on October 21st, 2025 at 9:30 am
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