Asylum/International Protection Application

The Application for International Protection in Ireland is the formal process through which individuals seek refugee status or subsidiary protection when they are unable to return to their home country due to a well-founded fear of persecution or a risk of serious harm. This process is governed by the International Protection Act 2015 and aligns with international standards, including the 1951 UN Convention relating to the Status of Refugees. There is no application fee for this process, as it is a fundamental humanitarian mechanism designed to provide safety to those in need. Applicants are entitled to have their claims assessed fairly by the International Protection Office (IPO) while remaining in the State.

To initiate an application, individuals must be physically present within Ireland or at a designated port of entry, such as an airport or seaport, and must declare their intention to apply in person to an immigration officer. The procedure involves a preliminary interview to establish identity and the basis of the claim, followed by a comprehensive questionnaire and a substantive personal interview. Throughout the assessment, applicants must demonstrate that they cannot seek protection in their country of origin. If granted, successful applicants receive legal status that allows them to reside in Ireland, access the labor market, and avail of various public services, ensuring their safety and integration.