Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 8 September 2022
1436. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice the progress to date in the determination of an application for a visa in the case of a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43508/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe visa applications referred to by the Deputy were created on 27 April 2022. Supporting documentation was subsequently received in the relevant visa office on 26 May 2022 where the applications are awaiting further examination and processing.
Long Stay Join Family visa applications are processed in accordance with the guidelines set out in my Department's Policy Document on Non-EEA Family Reunification. This is available on my Department's immigration website at:
www.irishimmigration.ie/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Policy-document-on-Non-EEA-family-reunification.pdf
This policy document contains a stated business target that visa applications for family reunification for immediate family members of Irish citizens and Category A sponsors, such as Critical Skills Employment Permit Holders, should be dealt with within six months of application.
A 12 month target will apply for applications to join Category B sponsors, such as Non Critical Skills Employment Permit Holders or Stamp 4 holders not covered by other more favourable arrangements.
However, it is important to note that these are business targets, which do not constitute legal obligations. The business target reflects the detailed and often complex assessment that is required to be carried out in relation to applications for family reunification.
It is not possible to give a definitive date as to when these applications will be finalised. All applications are processed in chronological order, based on date order of receipt. While every effort is made to process applications as soon as possible, processing times will vary having regard to the volume and complexity of applications, the possible need for my Department to investigate, inquire into, or seek further information, and the resources available.
The applicants will be notified as soon as a decision has been reached by a Visa Officer.
Queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to my Department by e-mail using the Oireachtas Mail facility (inisoireachtasmail@justice.ie) which has been specifically established for this purpose. This service enables up to date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek information by way of the Parliamentary Questions process. The Deputy may consider using the e-mail service except in cases where the response is, in the Deputy's view, inadequate or too long awaited.
