I propose to take Questions Nos. 1363 and 1378 together.
Long Stay Join Family visa applications are processed in accordance with the guidelines set out in my Department's Policy Document on Non-EEA Family Reunification, which can be found on my Department's immigration website: www.irishimmigration.ie.
The Policy Document contains a stated business target that visa applications for family reunification for immediate family members of Irish citizens and Category A sponsors, such as Critical Skills Employment Permit Holders, should be processed within six months of application. A 12 month target applies for applications to join Category B sponsors, such as Non Critical Skills Employment Permit Holders or Stamp 4 holders not covered by other arrangements.
The business targets reflect the detailed and often complex assessment that is required to be carried out in relation to applications for family reunification. However, it is important to note that these are business targets and do not a constitute legal obligation.
If a person is working in the State on an atypical permission they are present on a short stay permission which gives no family reunification rights. It is only when they receive a Critical Skills Employment Permit that they then become a Category A sponsor and they can make an application for family members to join them.
All Join Family visa applications are processed in chronological order based on date order of receipt in the relevant Embassy or Visa Office. Processing times for each individual Visa Office overseas will vary as a result of the differing volume and complexity of applications and the resources available in that office. It may also be necessary for officials of my Department to investigate, inquire into, or seek further information in relation to particular applications.
The Deputy can be assured that every effort is made to keep processing times to a minimum, and a number of measures have been put in place to deal with the increased demand for visas to come to Ireland. This has included the streamlining of visa processes where possible. The position in this regard is being kept under review.
The central concern in deciding on visa applications, as with all visa services worldwide, is to strike an appropriate balance between protecting the country's vital national interests by maintaining an effective immigration regime while at the same time facilitating travel for those who meet the criteria. Each visa application is therefore decided on its own merits taking all factors into account.
