Streamlined Residence Card Renewal Process for Dublin Residents
December 2, 2020
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At a Glance
- In a change of policy, Dublin residents applying for residence card renewal no longer need to submit their original passport by mail, which was previously required.
- Under the new policy, applicants can retain their passports for the duration of the renewal processing, which frequently takes up to eight weeks.
- The new policy significantly reduces travel and right to work uncertainty for residence card renewal applicants.
The situation
In a change of policy, effective immediately, Dublin residents applying for residence card renewal are no longer required to submit their original passport by mail, which was previously required.
A closer look
- Passport stamp abolished for renewal applications. Under the previous policy, renewal applicants in Dublin submitted their original passport by mail to obtain a passport stamp confirming renewal of their status. This stamp is no longer issued. The immigration authority has confirmed that the acknowledgement email received by Dublin residents after a successful filing of an online renewal application will serve as evidence of work and residence authorization pending receipt of their new residence card. This was previously accepted in practice, but not formally confirmed.
- Exception for new passport holders. Foreign nationals who obtained a new passport during their stay in Ireland must still submit an original passport in person during the residence card renewal process by scheduling an appointment by email. They can retain their original passport during the renewal process.
- Initial applications not affected. The residence card application process for initial residence card applicants is unchanged.
- Non-Dublin residents. Residence card renewal applicants outside Dublin can continue to file their applications in person, allowing them to retain their original passport, but also will no longer receive a passport stamp for renewals.
- Urgent travel needs. Individuals with urgent travel needs can contact [email protected] to seek expedited residence card renewal processing.
Impact
Under the previous policy, applicants in Dublin were without their passport for the duration of renewal processing, which frequently takes up to eight weeks. The new policy significantly reduces travel restrictions for Dublin-based renewal applicants who need their original passport. It also increases certainty around right to work for those awaiting their new residence cards.
Background
This policy change fits ongoing efforts by Irish authorities to streamline immigration processing.
Looking ahead
It is expected that Irish authorities will continue to streamline their processes, to increase transparency and reduce waiting times.
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].
