Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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Question 440: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if priority treatment will be given for students applying for visas who wish to study here in order that they can start their course of study when the colleges commence the academic year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8945/06]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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The visa section in my Department is committed to providing a high quality service to all our customers and is making every effort to process all visa applications in as timely a manner as possible. Visa processing times have reduced considerably in the past year and once the application is received in the visa section it currently takes less than two weeks to process.

A dedicated study team has been established within the visa section to ensure a speedy and efficient service. However, sufficient time should be allowed by the applicants to ensure that the application can be processed prior to the commencement of the study course.