Colm Burke (Cork North Central, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

32. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if he will confirm that the policy document on non-EEA family reunification 2016 has been amended to reflect the increased salary requirements required of the sponsor when applying for a family reunification visa, in particular category B sponsors, such as those on general employment permits; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25236/23]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

As the Deputy notes, the position in regard to applications of this nature is set out in the Policy Document for Non-EEA Family Reunification,which is available on my Department's website.

The policy document sets out the rationale for applying resource requirements as part of the overall assessment of whether to approve an application for family reunification. In general terms, the sponsor must demonstrate their capacity to provide for their family member(s) if they are to be granted a permission to come to Ireland.

The Policy outlines that Category B sponsors such as those on General Employment Permits, regardless of occupation, must have a gross income in excess of that applied by the Department of Social Protection (DSP) in assessing eligibility for the Working Family Payment (formerly Family Income Supplement). In examining such applications, my Department applies the DSP income levels current at the time of assessment. As stated in the Policy, these income levels are for guideline purposes only and represent a minimum financial requirement.

It should also be noted that financial capacity is just one of the condition to be satisfied for family reunification to take place and a review of the overall policy regarding family reunification is underway in the Department.