Eoin Ó Broin (Dublin Mid West, Sinn Fein)
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1547. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if he is aware of delays to the processing of a specific visa type via an embassy (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45384/25]

Colm Brophy (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)
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I can advise the Deputy that the application referred to was created on 16 August 2024. Supporting documentation was received in the Abu Dhabi Visa Office on 13 September 2024 where it awaits examination and processing.

I can assure the Deputy that while processing times can vary across the different Visa Offices and Irish Embassies the majority of visas are processed within stated target times. However, some applications can take considerably longer. Processing times for all applications are influenced by a number of factors. The time it can take varies depending on the type and complexity of application; individual circumstances; peak application periods; such as holidays or the start of the school year; and, crucially, the quality and completeness of the application lodged.

Unfortunately, it is not possible to give a definitive date as to when this application will be finalised. Visa applications can only be determined when all the required information is received and considered by the Visa Office. This information is not limited to considering the documentation submitted by the applicant themselves. The Visa Office also must take steps to verify the details and/or documentation submitted in support of the application. These requirements are detailed in the privacy notice which all visa applicants agree to upon submitting their application. The applicant will be notified as soon as a decision has been reached by a Visa Officer.

Visa and preclearance applications provide legal avenues for people moving to Ireland for employment, study and family reasons and also to facilitate visitors who wish to travel for business and/or tourism. It is important to recall these applications are screening processes, designed to establish that the person has a legitimate reason to come to Ireland prior to travel. Verifying an application is an important part of our immigration system and the checks involved can take time to complete.

As an Oireachtas member, you can also request the status of individual immigration cases by e-mail, using the Oireachtas Mail facility at: IMoireachtasmail@justice.ie, which has been specifically established for this purpose. This service enables up to date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek information by way of the Parliamentary Question process.