Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 19 October 2022
195. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Justice if her Department is developing a fast-track or prioritisation process for applications under the policy document for non-EEA family reunification, following a judgment (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [52240/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraLong 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 business targets for the processing of these applications 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 suggest that a case not completed within the processing timeframe will result in a default decision in the applicant’s favour.
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 and my Department is actively considering an accelerated procedure within the visa system for the cases the subject of the judgment concerned.
Family reunification applications are among the more complex applications in the immigration caseload. Irrespective of whether some form of family reunification pre-clearance is introduced, it is proposed that all cases should be the subject of a standardised application form. The introduction of an application form is required as it puts visa required and non-visa nationals on the same level in terms of fully setting out their circumstances in order to obtain a family Reunification status. It also ensures transparent and consistent information gathering which will assist both the applicant and the official considering the case.
