Atypical Working Scheme Applications Now Online

The situation

The Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) is now accepting online applications for the Atypical Working Scheme (AWS), Ireland’s short-term work authorisation option.

A closer look

Key points of the new application process include the following:

• Process. Eligible applicants or their representatives complete their application form online, upload supporting documents, pay government fees online and receive email updates on the case status.
• Registration required. Applicants or their representatives must be registered on the INIS Immigration Online Portal to apply. Email updates will be sent to the email address registered on that portal.
• Wet signatures required. Supporting documents, such as a letter appointing an authorised representative, require wet signatures (‘ink signed copy’), and must be signed and scanned to the system. Digitally signed documents are not accepted.

 

Impact

Eligible applicants will now benefit from a streamlined online application process.

Background

The AWS was Ireland’s last employment-based permit still requiring paper applications. All employment-based permits in Ireland now permit online applications.

Looking ahead

• Transition period. Paper AWS applications will be accepted until September 18, 2020. After this date, online AWS applications are mandatory.
• Platform for other online permit applications. INIS has included online AWS applications on the platform currently used for online renewal applications for Dublin residents. Fragomen expects other application types under INIS’ jurisdiction to be added to this platform in the future.

 

This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen or send an email to [email protected].