Key Points
- Entry visa processing is suspended indefinitely due to COVID-19 for most applicants
- Exceptions apply for transport workers, critical care workers, and certain travel reasons including family and business
- Entry visa applications can still be submitted online, but they are not currently being processed
- Employment Permit application processing is not affected by the suspension of Entry Visa processing
- Updates will be provided on application processing when available
Overview
As part of its efforts to control the spread of COVID-19, the Irish government has indefinitely suspended processing for entry visas.
What are the Changes?
Entry visa processing is suspended due to COVID-19 with certain exceptions.
Who is Affected?
The change applies to visa-required nationals.
There are some exceptions to the rule, including workers in critical occupations including seasonal, frontier and posted workers, and healthcare workers. Transport workers and freight delivery drivers are exempt from the suspension, along with individuals traveling to Ireland for medical care, education, or for urgent family and business travel. Transiting passengers are also exempt from the suspension.
What Should Employers and Applicants Know?
Individuals can still submit applications online, but the applications will not be processed until further notice.
Employers and applicants should note that Employment Permit application submission and processing is not impacted by the entry visa application suspension.
Looking Ahead
Updates will be provided on resumption of visa processing when available.
Originally Published by Envoy, February 2021
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.