Immigration law is an incredibly complex area. For McGinley, it generally revolves around supporting individuals who need to enter or remain in Ireland. However, once that process is complete, what happens when that individual wants or needs to travel?
This is a rather important question to raise, as people who come to live in Ireland may need to travel to and from the country for a range of reasons. Ultimately, they are able to do that, but some key documentation may be required. More specifically, it might be time to get a travel document in Ireland.
The Irish Immigration Service explains that a travel document helps non-Irish nationals who live in the country to travel, but it adds that there are some important issues that you must bear in mind.
Irish Travel Document Eligibility
One of the key aspects relates to eligibility, as the Irish travel document has been created to support a specific group of people. The Irish Immigration Service details that you can fill in a travel document application form if you are:
- A refugee, as outlined by the International Protection Act 2015
- Someone who has been granted subsidiary protection under the International Protection Act 2015
- A programme refugee under section 59 of the International Protection Act 2015
- Stateless, in accordance with the New York Convention of 1954
- A family member of a person with refugee status or subsidiary protection
- A family member of programme refugees
- A person with permission to stay in the state
The service adds that, in some situations, a travel document will only be issued where a person has been unable to get a national passport. It references this in relation to subsidiary protection, being a family member of programme refugees and being a person with permission to stay in the state.
Travel Document Application Form
So, if you fall into any of the categories above, just how do you apply for a travel document in Ireland? The process begins with a key piece of documentation that is available online.
You will need a travel document application form to get started and this can be downloaded from the Irish Immigration Service. It asks for a host of personal information, while you will also need to provide four passport-sized photos with your travel document application form.
There are full details on the photo requirements on the Irish Immigration Service website and if your images do not meet the criteria, your application could be returned. You should familiarise yourself with all aspects, as they include stipulations in relation to pose, expression and other issues like glasses and head coverings.
You also need to pay a fee when completing a travel document application form. This travel document fee is €80 and it can only be paid by:
- Postal money order, where you send payment through the postal system.
- Bank draft, which is a cheque guaranteed by a bank.
The fee should be made payable to the Department of Justice.
Once you have everything in order, it is time to submit your Irish travel document application form. The Irish Immigration Service outlines that the application should be sent to:
Travel Document Section
Repatriation Division
Immigration Service Delivery
Department of Justice
13-14 Burgh Quay
Dublin 2
D02 XK70
The Irish Immigration Service adds that people can also apply from outside the state. In this situation, individuals can submit the travel document application form to the address above, but they must leave sections requiring Garda facilitation blank.
They should also provide details on an Irish Embassy that they can attend, as arrangements will be made for their application to be completed there. The travel document will subsequently be sent to the Irish Embassy for collection.
How Can McGinley Solicitors LLP Help Advise Me on Travel Documents for Ireland?
Immigration law is one of our key specialisms here at McGinley Solicitors LLP and we can support you through the entire process of getting a travel document in Ireland. Immigration issues are a tricky area and there is a lot to consider, from matters like Irish citizenship to securing that all-important work permit for use in the country.
We pride ourselves on being able to help in any situation, so we can ensure that your travel document application form is completely accurate and meets the key criteria. In addition, we can offer advice on any areas of concern and provide assistance so that you are in the best possible position when applying for the travel document.
So, if you have questions or want support when completing a travel document application form, please get in touch and speak to our experts today.
Irish Travel Document FAQs
What is a travel document for?
It helps eligible non-Irish nationals who live in Ireland to travel. In some cases, the document may be issued when a person is unable to get a passport.
Who is eligible for a travel document in Ireland?
You can apply for the document if you meet specific criteria and the key issues are listed above.
Do I need to pay any fees?
There is a travel document fee of €80 and this can only be paid in one of two ways. You can pay it by postal money order, or alternatively opt for a bank draft.
Can I apply for a travel document from outside Ireland?
This is possible and requires the involvement of an Irish Embassy. Once the process is complete, you can head to your chosen Embassy to collect the travel document.
Where can I get a travel document application form?
You can download the travel document application form from the Irish Immigration Service website. The site also includes other information including details on photo requirements.