International Protection Family Reunification
Ireland
Last updated: December 25, 2025
Renewable (renewable)
$70-$117
12-18 months
Medium
About this Visa
This visa lets refugees and people with subsidiary protection bring their close family to Ireland. You can only bring a spouse or children under 18 if you're an adult. If you're under 18, you can bring your parents or unmarried brothers and sisters under 18. You need to apply within one year of getting your protection status. There's no application fee right now, but that may change in 2026. This visa is different because Ireland handles it separately from other family visas. The government just announced they might add a money requirement in 2026, but it's not law yet.
Key Benefits
- Work any job without restrictions
- Family members can work without restrictions
- Access to free healthcare (same as Irish citizens)
- Children can go to school for free
- Get social welfare payments if eligible
- Family can stay and build a life in Ireland
- Path to becoming a permanent resident and Irish citizen
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- You have refugee status OR subsidiary protection status
- Applied for family reunification within 12 months of getting protection
- For spouse: Marriage happened before you applied for asylum
- Spouse or child has valid travel documents
- Family member is not married (if under 18)
- Relationship can be proven with documents and proof of contact
- No major criminal record
Financial Requirement
Right now: None. You don't need to show money. Starting June 2026: Likely required. You'll probably need to prove you can support your family members, but the exact amount hasn't been announced yet.
Documents
- PassportValid travel document
- Marriage certificateProof of marriage before asylum application (if spouse)
- Birth certificateOriginal document for you and family members
- 6 recent photosRecent passport-style photos
- Proof of relationshipEmails, messages, photos, visa stamps showing pre-asylum marriage or contact
- English translationAll documents must be in English or officially translated
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Please verify all information with official government sources and consult a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions.