Eligibility Quiz
Are you currently physically present in Ireland?
Application Process
You must apply for international protection in person as soon as you arrive in Ireland. If you do not apply at your point of entry (such as an airport or seaport), you must go directly to the designated processing centers in Dublin. Under the International Protection Bill 2026, the system is transitioning to a faster, more digital process to align with EU standards.
Step 1: The Initial Application
You must declare your intention to seek asylum to an immigration officer at the border or at the International Protection Office (IPO).
- Where to go:
- Families and nationals from "Safe Countries": Go to the Citywest Convention Centre, Saggart, Dublin 24.
- All other adults and unaccompanied minors: Go to Timberlay House, 78-83 Lower Mount Street, Dublin 2.
- What happens: An officer will conduct a Preliminary Interview to confirm your identity and travel route. They will take your photograph and your fingerprints for Eurodac (a European database used to see if you have applied for asylum in another EU country).
Step 2: The Questionnaire (IPO 2)
You will be asked to complete a detailed 28-page questionnaire explaining why you are seeking protection.
- Method: Most applications are now completed via an online customer portal. You are permitted to use your mobile phone in the reception area to set up this account.
- Support: If you need help, the IPO provides interpreters and cultural mediators to assist with the digital forms.
Step 3: The Substantive Interview
This is your formal opportunity to explain in detail your "well-founded fear" of persecution or the "serious harm" you face in your home country.
- Format: Interviews may be held in person or via Zoom to speed up the process.
- Evidence: Bring any documents that support your claim. If you are from a Safe Country of Origin (such as India, Brazil, Georgia, or South Africa), your case will be fast-tracked, so you must have your evidence ready immediately.
Step 4: Recommendation and Decision
The IPO will issue a recommendation. If it is positive, the Minister for Justice will grant you refugee status or subsidiary protection. If it is negative, you will receive a notice explaining how to appeal to the Tribunal for Asylum and Returns Appeals (TARA).
Fees
There are no government fees to apply for international protection in Ireland.
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | €0 |
| Preliminary Interview | €0 |
| Substantive Interview | €0 |
| Legal Aid (via Legal Aid Board) | Small contribution (often waived) |
Total Estimate: €0 Note: This does not include personal costs such as private legal fees (if you choose not to use the Legal Aid Board), travel to Dublin for interviews, or translation of personal documents not provided by the IPO.
Processing Time
Processing times vary significantly based on your country of origin and the complexity of your case.
- Safe Country Applicants: Under "accelerated border procedures," you can expect a final decision in under 60 days.
- Standard Applications: The International Protection Bill 2026 aims for a strict 3-month time limit for decisions and appeals under the new "Border Procedure."
- Work Authorization: If you have not received a first-instance decision within 6 months, you may apply for Labor Market Access Permission to begin working.
- Document Validity: Once granted, your declaration of protection generally remains valid unless revoked, but you must wait 3 years before you are eligible to apply for family reunification.
Important Deadlines:
- Change of Address: You must notify the IPO of a new address within 5 days.
- Application Timing: You should apply immediately upon arrival; delays can be used to question the credibility of your claim.