IMPACT – HIGH

What is the change? The Irish government has announced that foreign nationals with valid immigration permission that expires between Sept. 20 and Jan. 20, 2021, will be granted an automatic extension to Jan. 20, 2021.

  • Implementation time frame: This change is set to take effect immediately. No further extensions are anticipated after Jan. 20, 2021.
  • Visas/permits affected: Any valid immigration permission (e.g., based on employment, studies, dependant family, tourism, etc.) that expires between Sept. 20 and Jan. 20, 2021.
  • Who is affected: All foreign nationals residing in Ireland with valid immigration permission due to expire during this time period.
  • Next steps: Employers should update their employees with upcoming Irish Residence Permit expiries.

Additional Information: In Ireland, all non-EEA nationals must apply for an employment permit to work. For certain nationalities, individuals must then 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 and reside. This Irish Residence Permit must be renewed in Ireland when appropriate by the non-EEA national.

The recent extension is part of Ireland’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic and comes after four previous extensions were granted on March 20, May 13, July 16 and Aug. 20. Any permission that was renewed by the four previous extensions and as a result expires during the period from Sept. 20 to Jan. 20, 2021, has also been automatically renewed.

The most recent measure was introduced to allow foreign nationals additional time to renew their permissions prior to Jan. 20, 2021. This ensures that employees retain their permission under the same conditions during this time. It is important to note that foreign nationals will not receive an updated permission as part of this announcement. Those who wish to travel before renewing their residency permission, are encouraged to contact Deloitte before departing Ireland.

Analysis & Comments: All renewals in the Dublin area are now being processed online only. This system has been available since July 20. We are seeing delays in the processing of these applications currently. The response to the COVID-19 pandemic continues to develop, and Deloitte will provide additional updates as information becomes available. Please check Deloitte’s COVID-19 Digital Map, available here, for information on travel restrictions and immigration changes in other countries.

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