Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 23 June 2021
143. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has engaged with the US Embassy about student visa applications and the postponement of interview appointments in view of some third-level courses requiring study in the United States of America in order to graduate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33943/21]
View answerThe processing of US student visas, and the provision of appointments at US Embassies, are solely a matter for the US authorities. My advice to those seeking to apply for a US student visa is to monitor the US Embassy in Dublin's website and to engage with them directly on visa appointment issues.
I understand, however, that this is a very difficult and uncertain time for those who wish to travel to the US to study. My officials have raised the issue with the US Embassy in Dublin, encouraging them to process student visas as soon as it is feasible and safe to do so. Together with other EU countries, we have also written to US Secretary of State Blinken requesting reconsideration of the US travel restrictions currently in place. This letter specifically references the plight of those wishing to apply for student visas.
Ireland is deeply committed to supporting exchanges between our two countries at every level. These play an essential role in building transatlantic understanding and extraordinary academic links. Such exchanges are also vital to our economic relationships, and for building people-to-people connections across the Atlantic. My Department has a very strong and positive working relationship with the US Chargé d’affaires and her team at the US Embassy in Dublin. We will continue to maintain regular contact with the Embassy, and with the US State Department via our Embassy in Washington D.C., including with regard to travel restrictions between our two countries.
