1. Breaking News: New Asylum & Migration Measures (Nov 26, 2025)
Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan secured Cabinet approval for significant changes to the International Protection (Asylum) system to align Ireland closer with stricter EU standards.
- “Pay to Stay” Rule: Asylum seekers who are working must now contribute to the cost of their state-provided accommodation.
- The Detail: If an asylum seeker earns money, they may be charged up to €238 per week for their housing. This is a shift from the previous system where accommodation was largely free regardless of income.
- Revoking Status: The government is introducing legislation to make it easier to revoke (cancel) refugee status if a person is convicted of a serious crime or is deemed a danger to the security of the State.
- Official Source: Department of Justice – Press Releases
2. Family Reunification: Stricter Income & Housing Rules
A major review of the Family Reunification Policy has been published. This affects non-EU citizens living in Ireland who want to bring their spouse or children over.
- Income Thresholds: Sponsors must now demonstrate “sufficient financial resources.” The government has stated that Family Reunification will not be granted if it leads to reliance on state benefits.
- Housing Requirement: You must now provide strict proof of “Suitable Accommodation” for the family members arriving. You cannot bring family over if they will be living in overcrowded conditions or if you do not have a secure tenancy.
- Official Source: Immigration Service Delivery – Family Reunification Policy
- Read more:-
- Who is Shabana Mahmood ? A complete Biography.
- Restoring Order: The UK’s New Migration Strategy
- The UK Home Office’s New Asylum Model: immigration reforms
- Asylum seekers to face 20-year wait for UK settlement under new laws
- The UK Visitor Visa: A Comprehensive Guide.
3. Work Permits: Salary Increases & Quota Changes (Jan 2025)
The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment (DETE) has confirmed changes to salary thresholds effective January 2025.
- Healthcare Assistants: The minimum salary for Healthcare Assistants and Home Carers will increase to €30,000 starting January 17, 2025.
- General Employment Permits:
- Meat Processing Operatives: Minimum salary increases to €32,000 (Jan 2025) and then €34,000 (July 2025).
- Horticulture Workers: Same increases apply (€32k in Jan, €34k in July).
- New Quotas Opened: The government has extended the quota for Mechanics, Bus/HGV Mechanics, and Vehicle Body Builders. If you are a mechanic, this is the best time to apply.
- Town Planners: The role of “Town Planning Officer” has been added to the Critical Skills list (no longer General Permit), making it easier to get residency.
- Official Source: DETE – Latest Employment Permit Updates
4. Re-Entry Visas: No More “Emergency” Exceptions
As of November 10, 2025, the rules for Emergency Re-Entry Visas have become very strict.
- The New Rule: If you are a foreign resident in Ireland and you need to travel abroad urgently (e.g., for a funeral or medical emergency), you will refused a re-entry visa if your current IRP (Irish Residence Permit) card expires while you are away.
- The Consequence: You must renew your registration before you leave Ireland. The “flexibility” that existed before is gone.
- Official Source: Immigration Service Delivery – Registration Renewal
5. Citizenship Ceremonies (December 2025)
For those waiting for naturalization, the dates are confirmed.
- Dates: December 1st and December 2nd, 2025.
- Location: Killarney Convention Centre (INEC).
- Status: Invitations have already been emailed. If you haven’t received one, check your junk folder or wait for the next round in 2026.
- Official Source: ISD – Citizenship News
