Information Hub

Welcome to our Information Hub.

The Hub helps people seeking protection and refugees access updated and accurate information about the international protection process.

All of the videos on this Hub are available in English and Arabic. You can also access subtitles in French and Pashtu.

How to find the subtitles:

On the video, click on the settings cog --> subtitles --> the language of your choice. See image below.

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Full Overview of the International Protection Process in Ireland

This page gives a full overview of the International Protection process in Ireland as well as associated rights and entitlements.

What is International Protection?

This page explains who is eligible for refugee status, subsidiary protection, and permission to remain.

Steps in the Asylum Process

This page sets out the various stages throughout the asylum process in Ireland.

Asylum Process Waiting Times

This page explains the average waiting time for a first-instance decision and appeal.

Legal Aid

All International Protection Applicants are entitled to free legal representation throughout the asylum process. This page explains how to apply and what to expect.

Prioritised Countries

Ireland prioritises certain countries within the asylum process. This page explains which countries are prioritised and what that means in practice.

Safe Countries & Accelerated Procedure

This page explains what "safe" countries are within an asylum context and what this means in practice.

IPO Interview

What to expect during your substantive interview at the IPO.

After the Asylum Process & Housing

This page explains what happens after you are granted refugee status, subsidiary protection, or permission to remain.

Rights and Entitlements After Receiving Status

Your entitlements will differ depending on what status you are granted. Especially regarding: Travel Documents, family reunification, and citizenship. This page sets out the differences.

Information for Homeless International Protection Applicants

If you are an International Protection Applicant who applied for asylum on or after December 3rd, 2023, please read for useful information and advice.

Social Welfare

This page gives an overview of social welfare entitlements for international protection applicants in Ireland.

PPSN

PPS numbers and Public Service Card for International Protection applicants in Ireland.

Labour Market Access (Work)

This page explains what a labour market access permit is, how long it takes to process, how to apply, and how to renew.

Medical Card

This page explains what the Medical Card is, who is eligible, and how to apply.

Family Reunification for Refugees

This page explains how beneficiaries of International Protection in Ireland (people granted refugee status or subsidiary protection) can apply for Family Reunification.

Join Family Visas

People who are not eligible for refugee family reunification can investigate applying for join family visas (also known as D Visa). This page explains the requirements and application process.

The Education System

This page gives an overview of the Education system in Ireland for international protection applicants and refugees.

Refugee Support Maps

This page contains two maps which set out supports for protection applicants and refugees across Ireland. We aim to keep the maps updated as much as possible. Project in partnership with Irish Refugee Council, Open Doors, and other collaborators.