In a move aimed at easing travel disruptions during the busy holiday season, Irish authorities have issued a Travel Confirmation Notice permitting certain residents to travel internationally on an expired Irish Residence Permit (IRP) card. The new rule applies to individuals whose IRP card has recently expired but who have already submitted their renewal application before the expiration date. The extension will remain in effect until January 31, 2025.
This temporary measure is designed to accommodate non-EU/EEA nationals legally residing in Ireland, allowing them to travel without the immediate need for a renewed IRP card. To qualify, travelers must provide both the expired card and evidence of their renewal application when presenting themselves to immigration authorities and airlines.
According to the notice, individuals are advised to download and print the confirmation notice, which should be shown alongside the expired IRP card and proof of their renewal application when traveling. While renewal applications continue to be processed, Irish officials urge residents planning to travel this holiday season to submit their renewal applications in advance to ensure a smooth journey.
In a related development, the Irish Immigration Services Registration Office has acknowledged a backlog in processing registration requests across several regions. Residents may experience delays of up to two weeks before receiving their renewed IRP cards. Despite this, authorities remain committed to processing renewals swiftly.
This policy change comes as part of Ireland’s broader efforts to modernize immigration processes. The government is currently expanding the Employment Permits System and implementing sweeping reforms aimed at easing employment for non-EU/EEA nationals. Furthermore, a new online immigration self-service portal has been launched to streamline services and remove certain restrictive policies, reflecting Ireland’s push for a more efficient and accessible immigration system.
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