On 25th February, the Irish Prime Minister revealed that Ireland would be waiving all visa requirements for those Ukrainian nationals travelling to Ireland – with immediate effect. The decision was part of the European Union Temporary Protection Directive (2001/ 55 EC), which provides temporary yet instant protection in the event of a large number of people who cannot return to their country of origin and are travelling from non-EU countries. For example, from Ukraine to Ireland.
In order to accept the terms of the Temporary Protection Directive, a country’s Council must adequately believe that the standard asylum system will or currently is struggling to meet the demand of so many people arriving. As well as providing individuals with a residence permit with protection that lasts for as long as the person is staying, the ability to work, housing, social welfare, education, and medical care are required.
Currently, Ukrainian nationals can travel to Ireland without a visa – irrespective of what country they’ve come from. Here, we explore it in more detail and reveal everything you need to know about Ukraine visas in Ireland.
Is a Visa Needed for Ukrainians Coming to Ireland?
As of June 2022, Ukrainian nationals do not require a visa if they’re travelling to Ireland – no matter what country they’re coming from. It’s important to remember that this is a temporary measure for Ukrainians in Ireland, which means the rules could change in the future. For those travelling to Ireland without a visa, you’ll be given a 90-day entry permission as well as appropriate protection and support measures for the duration.
Who Is Eligible for Temporary Protection?
In Ireland, Temporary Protection is available for those who have had to flee Ukraine because of the invasion by Russia such as Ukrainian refugees in Ireland. However, not everyone is eligible for the protection, and you must meet one of the following:
- Be a Ukrainian national who lived in Ukraine before 24th February 2022
- Be able to benefit from international protection either because you’re a national of a third country or a stateless individual – and were living in Ukraine before 24th February 2022
- Be a family member of someone who meets the above criteria, and again lived in Ukraine before 24th February 2022. This includes a spouse, partner, children and other close relatives who were living together as a unit before 24th February 2022.
Those individuals who have been living in Ukraine legally with a short-term or temporary residence permit will be supported to return to their original country of residence if it’s safe to do so. Those Ukrainians in Ireland on a short stay visa will be eligible for Temporary Protection too, but must apply in person at the country’s Ukraine Support Centre in Dublin or Limerick.
Those with a Ukraine visa in Ireland living under another immigration permission stamp, either for education or employment purposes, will be able to remain in Ireland until their immigration status requires renewal or expires. Then, an application to either renew the current permission or to get Temporary Protection if required.
How Long Will Temporary Protection Apply For?
Ukraine refugees in Ireland with Temporary Protection status will receive a standard 90-day entry permission. However, Temporary Protection will actually last until 4th March 2023. If at this point, the reason for Temporary Protection still remains, individuals will be automatically granted an extension to stay for six months. This can happen twice, making the end date 4th March 2024. Once this date has passed, the Council may extend it for another year until 4th March 2025.
Why Choose McGinley Solicitors LLP?
As a leading national law firm in Dublin and Donegal since 1988, we’re the team to turn to for complex requirements like the ones associated with nationals from Ukraine in Ireland. Over the past 30 years, we’ve supported more than 11,000 clients in a range of cases, using our skills and experience to get the best outcome possible. We are client-focused and results-driven.
When it comes to immigration law, our team specialises in Irish citizenship, work permits, immigration stamps and asylum, so if you have any questions, or just want to know more about the process, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team on 1800 998 969.
Ukraine / Ireland Immigration FAQs
Does my family member who is non-EEA and not Ukrainian need a visa to travel with me?
Yes, whether travelling from Ukraine to Ireland or from somewhere else, if your non-EEA family member is a visa-required national, they’ll need to have the appropriate visa to travel to Ireland. Applications are accepted for consideration from neighbouring countries, though.
What documents do I need to travel?
Those Ukrainians travelling to Ireland under Temporary Protection must be able to prove their identity to immigration and airline personnel. In lieu of the circumstances, Government-issued documentation, which isn’t usually permitted for travel, such as National ID cards, birth certificates and expired passports can be used. Irish immigration authorities have confirmed that they’ve requested that no one be refused boarding without first being contacted.
What will happen at the border for Ukraine refugees in Ireland?
At the border, Immigration Officers will check your identity and ask a few questions as normal. You’ll need your identification documentation. Once approved, the Officer will provide you with a letter that confirms your Temporary Protection status as well as information about the services available to you while in Ireland.
Are Ukrainians in Ireland free to travel around the country?
Yes, you’re free to travel around the State without restriction but it’s advised that you carry your permission letter at all times as well as something to confirm your identity.
Can someone be refused Temporary Protection?
Yes, in the following circumstances Ukrainians in Ireland might be refused Temporary Protection:
- They have committed a crime against peace, a war or political crime or another crime against humanity – or are believed to have done so
- They are believed to be a danger to the State