Thomas Pringle (Donegal, Independent)
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319. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if the blanket extension which was granted to American citizens, which allowed them to stay here for an extra two months due to the Covid-19 pandemic will affect their ability to return here for longer than one month later in 2020 (details supplied); if they will be allowed another three month visit; if not, if the visit will be restricted to one month due to the blanket extension which was granted; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13362/20]

Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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In light of the uncertainties caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, immigration permissions due to expire between 20 May 2020 and 20 July 2020 have been automatically extended for two months. The renewal of permission is on the same basis as the existing permission and the same conditions attach.

Any permission which was renewed by the previous notice of 20 March 2020 and which therefore has a new expiry date between 20 May 2020 and 20 July 2020 is automatically renewed by this notice for a further 2 months.

Any person whose permission was renewed under these provisions will not be affected on subsequent visits to the State provided they are for genuine short term visits.

The Deputy should be aware that there is not an automatic entitlement to visit the country for 90 days. As is provided for in Section 4(6) of the Immigration Act 2004, entry for a particular period is at the absolute discretion of the Immigration Officer examining the application for entry at the port. Each application for entry to the State is assessed on its own merits.

Therefore, the person referred to by the Deputy should ensure that on arrival in the state they have all of the appropriate documentation, confirming the purpose of their visit, available for inspection by the immigration officer. All relevant factors are taken into account, the principal ones being the purpose of the visit or stay, the duration of stay, the ability of the individual to support themselves during their stay, and proof that the person will exit the country on or before the expiry of any permission given. It is important to note that the powers granted to an Irish Immigration Officer are not unfettered. The Immigration Act 2004 provides for the grounds on which an individual may be granted or refused leave to land at a port of entry.