The Government of Ireland announced it will extend the validity of any Irish Residency Permit (IRP) cards that were valid at the start of the pandemic, March 2020, through to January 15, 2022. This extension will allow all IRP cardholders (visa required or not) to use their current expired card to depart from and return to Ireland over the winter holidays until January 15, 2022.
Travelers should print a copy of the travel confirmation notice to display with their existing IRP card as proof of residence when returning to Ireland before January 15, 2022. The reentry requirements for minors under 16 years of age have also been suspended until January 15, 2022.
Erickson Insights
The extension announcement comes amidst a significant IRP card processing delay. The government is engaging with airline carriers to ensure the travel process runs smoothly, and foreign national travelers are advised to contact their airline to confirm before traveling. A government travel FAQ is available here.
Erickson Immigration Group will continue to share updates as more news is available. If you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or case-specific questions, please contact your EIG attorney.