Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 3 November 2020
1059. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Justice if her attention has been drawn to the difficulty that has risen for Venezuelan citizens resident here whose passport has expired and who cannot renew their passports due to the difficulty in their home country; if she will authorise extension stamps for such residents; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32781/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraAt various times, nationalities will have difficulties renewing or obtaining passports due to conflict, etc. The Immigration Service of my Department takes this into account when considering the renewal of an immigration permission of a person who does not hold a valid passport, if the applicant can provide a satisfactory explanation of any circumstances that may prevent them from producing a valid passport. This is subject to all other aspects of their application being in order and each case is considered on its individual circumstances.
My Department is aware of the current difficulties with procuring passports from Venezuela and an applicant should include a note to that effect when they apply. Applicants from Venezuela should utilise the online registration renewal system where appropriate. My Department can assist such people by issuing a six month permission pending receipt of the new/extended document.
On 18 September 2020, I announced that immigration and international protection permissions due to expire between 20 September 2020 and 20 January 2021, are automatically renewed to the 20 January 2021. The renewal of permission is on the same basis as the existing permission and the same conditions attach. This measure also applies to Venezuelan nationals who are legally resident here and they should continue to apply in the usual manner to have their permissions registered, specifying any issues they may have with producing a valid passport as outlined above.
