What regularisation schemes exist for undocumented migrants in Ireland?

Ireland has periodically introduced regularisation schemes to allow undocumented migrants to obtain legal immigration status. The most significant recent scheme was the Regularisation of Long-Term Undocumented Migrants Scheme, which opened for applications in January 2022. This scheme allowed undocumented non-EEA nationals who had been living in Ireland without immigration permission for at least four years (or three years for those with children) to apply for legal residency.

Successful applicants under the 2022 scheme were granted immigration permission, typically Stamp 4, which allowed them to work and access services. The scheme recognised the significant number of people who had fallen out of the immigration system and had been contributing to Irish society without formal permission. The application window had a deadline, and only applications submitted within the designated period were considered.

Outside of specific regularisation schemes, undocumented migrants may seek to regularise their status by applying to the Minister for Justice for discretionary permission to remain under Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999. These applications are considered on a case-by-case basis, taking into account factors such as length of residence, family ties in Ireland, employment history, and humanitarian considerations.

Undocumented migrants should seek legal advice from a qualified immigration solicitor or from organisations such as the Migrant Rights Centre Ireland (MRCI) that provide support and guidance.

This is general information only, not legal advice. Consult a registered immigration solicitor for advice specific to your situation.