I am advised by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service of this Department that non-nationals from visa required countries require a re-entry visa if they wish to leave and return to Ireland during the period of their registration. Up to 3 September 2018 customers had the option of submitting their application for a re-entry visa by post, or in person. In person applications were made by appointment, with appointments being made available 3 weeks in advance.
I am further advised that the change was introduced in order to improve efficiency and enhance the service to customers. As a face to face meeting is not required to issue a re-entry visa, applications are now dealt with by post and these applications are usually processed within 3 to 4 weeks. Customers with urgent travel needs can continue to make an emergency appointment for a re-entry visa and their application will be dealt with within 24 hours with additional appointments are being made available in this regard.
The requirements for registration of immigration permissions and visa and re-entry visa requirements are kept under regular review.