Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 June 2020
334. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of applications for non-EEA family reunification that have been made to the INIS in the past three years; the number granted; and the number granted on appeal. [12339/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Policy Document on Non EEA Family Reunification provides a comprehensive statement of national immigration policy in the area of family reunification. It includes detailed information on the circumstances in which a family member can seek to sponsor a non-EEA national family member to join and reside with them in the State. The requirements outlined in the document apply to all decision making in relation to family reunification cases where ministerial discretion applies, including long stay (join family) visa applications.
I have outlined in the table below the number of Join family visa applications lodged, granted and granted on appeal in the years 2017- 2019. They do not include those who made an application to Join Family while already in the State and sought a permission to remain in the State in line with the criteria under the Policy.
|
Year |
2017 |
2018 |
2019 |
|
Lodged |
7888 |
8019 |
8787 |
|
Granted |
6244 |
6079 |
7759 |
|
Appeal Granted |
148 |
192 |
259 |
As previously stated, the requirements outlined in the Policy Document apply to all decision making in relation to family reunification cases where ministerial discretion applies, including long stay (join family) visa applications. Cases where the rights of the individual and the rules that apply regarding applications which are already set out in legislation are not covered by the Non EEA policy document.
All information that an applicant wishes to have taken into consideration should be included with any visa application. Additional clarification may be provided by the Visa Offices abroad including advising of additional documentation to demonstrate that the applicant/sponsor meets specific criteria. Family reunification applications from non visa required persons are made only when the person is already in Ireland.
If a person fails to demonstrate they meet the criteria for a “Join Family” visa then this may result in a negative decision on that application once it has been processed.
Full details on the documentation required for a “Join Family” Visa, including the Policy Document on Non-EEA Family Reunification, are available on the Immigration service website at: http://www.inis.gov.ie/en/INIS/Pages/immigration-policy-family-reunification
However, it should be borne in mind, that the information contained on the website is intended to act as guidance only; it does not limit the discretion of an immigration officer in dealing with individual applications.
