Michael McCarthy (Cork South West, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

494. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality how long it takes for international student visa applications to be processed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1152/16]

Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I am advised by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) of my Department that student visa applications are generally processed within 8 weeks from the date on which the application is lodged at the Visa Office/Embassy/Consulate.

Processing times can vary over the year and between countries due to volumes received. In addition, some applications may take longer to process where particular issues arise in individual applications or if all the necessary supporting documentation has not been submitted or the supporting documentation requires verification.

Michael McCarthy (Cork South West, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

495. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality if there are plans to review the international student visa application process; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1153/16]

Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I am advised by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) of my Department that the immigration regime for international students from non-EEA countries is under continuous review and my Department works closely with the Department of Education and Skills in this regard.

The objective is to develop Ireland's international education sector on the basis of quality. In May of last year the Government published a policy document setting out a series of reforms of the non-EEA student regime aimed at improving learner protection, quality and immigration compliance. A copy of this document can be obtained on the website of the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) at . Implementation of these reforms is continuing.

It should also be noted that, outside of major policy initiatives, there is capacity to implement day to day operational changes as necessary. If the Deputy has particular issues in mind in that regard I can arrange for them to be forwarded to the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service for consideration.