International protection in Ireland
International Protection Office
People who cannot return to their country because of a fear of persecution or a real risk of serious harm can apply for international protection in Ireland. From 12 June 2026 applications are made under the International Protection Act 2026, which gives effect to the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum. Applications are registered and lodged at the Citywest Reception Centre, decided by the International Protection Office (IPO), and appealed to the new Tribunal for Asylum and Returns Appeals (TARA).
Life in Ireland
Money
3
Currency
Euro
EUR
Euro
Cost of living
102
Price level · US = 100
World Bank price levels, 2025
Tax
20–40%
Income tax (national)
VAT 23% · social security 4.2%
40% above EUR 44,000 (single); plus USC of 0.5-8% and PRSI. Tax credits apply.
Living
1
Happiness
#13 of 145 countries
World Happiness Report 2025
Who it’s for
People in Ireland or arriving at an Irish port of entry who fear persecution or serious harm in their country.
Eligibility
Who can apply
The IPO says it is your right to apply if you cannot return to your country because you fear persecution (refugee status) or face a real risk of serious harm (subsidiary protection).
Where to apply
Applications made from 12 June 2026 are registered and lodged at the Citywest Reception Centre in Saggart, Co. Dublin.
Time limits
From 12 June 2026- Registrationafter making the application
- 5 days
- Lodgingafter registration
- 21 days
- Address: Citywest Reception Centre, Garter Lane, Saggart, Co. Dublin, D24 A38Y
Official wording
Applications made from 12 June 2026 are registered and lodged at the Citywest Reception Centre, Garter Lane, Saggart, Co. Dublin, D24 A38Y. Registration should happen within 5 days of making the application, and lodging within 21 days of registration.
Screening
Applicants go through screening: identity and security checks, fingerprints and photo, health and vulnerability checks. Screening also decides which procedure applies.
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- 6 more requirements
- 6 documents
- 1 fee
- 8 steps
- Processing times and conditions
Official sources
- IPO - Before you apply (applying after 12 June 2026), timestamp 18 June 2026
- IPO - Stages of your application (after 12 June 2026)
- S.I. No. 244/2026 - International Protection Act 2026 (Commencement) Order 2026
- gov.ie - Daily Expenses Allowance
- Irish Immigration Service - Labour Market Access Permission
Other routes to Ireland
- Visit & tourismShort stay 'C' visit (tourist) visa
- StudyStudent permission (Stamp 2) for full-time degree programmes
- Work permitsCritical Skills Employment Permit
- FamilyJoin Family: spouse or civil partner of an Irish citizen
- CitizenshipIrish citizenship by naturalisation
- Work permitsGeneral Employment Permit
