John Lahart (Dublin South West, Fianna Fail)
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162. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality considering the challenges faced by non-EU family members seeking emergency visitor visas in urgent circumstances, such as family bereavement, if there are plans to review the current processing procedures to ensure that genuinely urgent cases are facilitated as swiftly as possible; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12942/25]

Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail)
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I can advise the Deputy that where my Department receive requests for visas in time-sensitive genuine emergency circumstances, such applications are treated sympathetically and facilitated where possible. In those circumstances, the applicant should follow the standard online application process using the AVATS system, www.visas.inis.gov.ie/avats/OnlineHome.aspx

As part of the application process, the applicant should state the nature of the emergency. This can be done by giving the additional relevant information under the “Other” option in the on-line form under the ‘Reason for Travel’ section.The applicant will then need to submit their passport and supporting documentation to their nearest Embassy, Consulate, Visa Office or Visa Application Centre as appropriate. The documentation should include evidence to verify the situation e.g. a bereavement notice, letter from a hospital/doctor or other relevant authority. Further information on the visa application process is available on my Departments Immigration Service website at: www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-visit-ireland/giving-your-details-on-avats-for-a-visa-preclearance-application/

Applicants can now directly check the status of their immigration application, or to provide further information, by using the Immigration Service’s new Digital Contact Centre (DCC). They can register for, or log in to their existing account, at: portal.irishimmigration.ie/en/

It is also open to the applicant to make follow up contact with their appropriate Embassy, Consulate, Visa Office or Visa Application Centre regarding their application where, for example, online access is difficult or circumstances require direct contact.