Hildegarde Naughton (Galway West, Fine Gael)

I thank Deputy Coppinger for raising this important issue, which I will bring to the attention of the Minister, Deputy O'Callaghan. I am taking this on his behalf.

The enormous contribution made by migrant workers, particularly those working in the health sector, is recognised and valued by this Government. It is a central priority for the Minister that our immigration laws are fair and efficient. An important part of this is having legal pathways for workers and their families. I am advised by the Minister that there has been a significant increase in join family visa applications received by his Department. Approximately 22,000 such visa applications were made last year, an increase of 14% on 2023. The vast majority receive a decision within 12 months. In 2024, the average processing time for these applications was 72 calendar days.

There are differences in the criteria applied to these applications, the Deputy outlined some, which are linked to the sponsors immigration permission. Health workers who are critical skills employment permit holders can apply for join-family visas immediately. However, it is acknowledged that there are many healthcare professionals on general employment permits who are subject to additional waiting periods and financial thresholds. While some may find the difference in criteria difficult to understand, I assure the Deputy that the primary focus is to ensure that a sponsor is in a secure position and able to demonstrate a clear capacity to provide for family members before approving applications for families to join them here.

As the Deputy is aware, the Department of Justice policy document for non-EEA family reunification which was last amended in 2016 is under review. While this review is ongoing, it is not possible to pre-empt what changes may be introduced. The Minister has advised that the review is examining a wide range of matters relating to applications for family reunification. He expects that the next stage of the review will be concluded soon.

Officials from his Department have consulted with a wide variety of stakeholders, including relevant Departments and external organisations, and will continue to engage with stakeholders regarding any changes. In addition to concluding the review, the Minister has advised me that in recent months more resources and staff have been assigned to his Department's visa division which are expected to reduce the waiting times for join-family applications overall.

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