Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
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402. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if there has been a change in the criteria for Columbian and Venezuelan nationals applying for visas to study here for the year 2018-19; the existing criteria for Columbian and Venezuelan students to successfully apply for a visa; the number of such applications; the requirements they must satisfy in terms of proving they will return to their home country when they complete their studies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36958/18]

Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael)
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I am advised by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) of my Department that there has been no change in the requirements on any persons applying for Irish study visas.

Further information is generally available on the INISwebsite www.inis.gov.ie. However, it should be noted that the information on the website does not limit the discretion of a visa officer from seeking additional information. In such circumstances, it is not possible to give comprehensive details as each visa application is assessed on its merits and circumstances can inevitably vary from one individual to another.

The applicant's intention to return to their home country can be established by showing that the person has an obligation to return home for economic, social or family reasons.

Finally, I am advised that 112 study visa applications were received from Columbian and 40 from Venezuelan nationals thus far this year (up to 31 August).