Written answers
Tuesday, 25 September 2018
Department of Justice and Equality
Visa Data
Tony McLoughlin (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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217. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the recent changes introduced by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service by which re-entry visas can now only be made via postal applications have caused great concern to many non-EU nationals; the reason the GNIB card will not suffice for the non-EU re-entry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38469/18]
Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael)
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I am advised by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service of this Department that non-nationals from visa required countries require a re-entry visa if they wish to leave and return to Ireland during the period of their registration. Up to 3 September 2018 customers had the option of submitting their application for a re-entry visa by post, or in person. In person applications were made by appointment, with appointments being made available 3 weeks in advance.
I am further advised that the change was introduced in order to improve efficiency and enhance the service to customers. As a face to face meeting is not required to issue a re-entry visa, applications are now dealt with by post and these applications are usually processed within 3 to 4 weeks. Customers with urgent travel needs can continue to make an emergency appointment for a re-entry visa and their application will be dealt with within 24 hours with additional appointments are being made available in this regard.
The requirements for registration of immigration permissions and visa and re-entry visa requirements are kept under regular review.
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