Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 6 May 2004
177 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the procedure required for non-nationals to process their residency claim after their five year work permit; if their spouses can apply for residency and work; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13042/04]
View answerPersons who have been legally resident in the State for more than five years on the basis of work permit conditions may apply to the immigration division of my Department at 13-14 Burgh Quay, Dublin 2, for a five years' residency extension. In that context, they may also apply to be exempted from employment permit requirements. Their spouses may apply to their local registration officer for permission to remain as dependants of the work permit holders. The work permit holders must be in a position to support their spouses without recourse to public funds.
It is open to the spouse of a work permit holder to seek an employer who will apply for a work permit in respect of him or her. In the event of the approval of the work permit application, the spouse may be registered on work permit conditions.
