Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 July 2020
807. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if spousal visas are being issued for the wives and husbands of persons with Irish citizenship; if not, the reason for not doing so; if there are limitations caused by Covid-19 to the issuing of spousal visas; if so, the limitations; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18854/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Immigration Service Delivery (ISD) function of my Department started a limited resumption of visa services from 22 June 2020. During this initial resumption phase, my Department was only accepting Long Stay “D” visa applications and those identified under the Immigration Service's current criteria as Emergency/Priority visas.
As of 27 July 2020, the Immigration Service has recommenced the issuing of Long Stay visas, including spousal visas.
It remains the position that we are not accepting any short stay visa applications, except for cases that fall under the Emergency/Priority criteria. A detailed list of what categories of short stay visa fall under the Emergency/Priority category can be found on the Immigration Service website at:
http://www.inis.gov.ie/en/INIS/Pages/updates-announcements
There are still restrictions in place in many countries, so in locations where it was not possible to resume processing visa applications from 22 June 2020, the Immigration Service intend to resume accepting visa applications as soon as is possible. Any resumption of services is subject to current health and safety advice in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic. The extent of the resumption of visa services will continue to be decided in accordance with World Health Organisation (WHO) and Health Service Executive (HSE) guidelines.
I would advise any applicant for a visa to monitor the Department's immigration website where a Frequently Asked Questions document on the impact of COVID-19 on immigration and international protection is available - (www.inis.gov.ie). This document is regularly updated. Additionally any person intending to travel should also take note of the General COVID-19 Travel Advisory issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
