Niamh Smyth (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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626. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will review the case of a person (details supplied) in relation to a visa; if assistance can be provided on this matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63182/21]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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As the processing of US visas is solely a matter for the US authorities, I cannot advise on this specific case. My general advice to those seeking to apply for a US visa or for a visa waiver is to get information from the website of the US Embassy in Dublin and to engage with them directly on their application.

I understand that this is a challenging and uncertain time for many, not least for those seeking to travel between Ireland and the United States. Ease of travel is essential to protect our strong transatlantic connections, be that in business, academia, tourism or maintaining family connections.

I am aware that adherence to the Government's COVID guidelines by the US Embassy have had an impact on visa operations, resulting in long delays in interview appointments being given in some cases. My Department maintains regular contact with the Embassy on the issue and continues to emphasise the importance of processing visas as efficiently as is feasible to do so.