International Protection

Anyone who wishes to apply for international protection or asylum in Ireland has the right to do so. You must be in the country to apply for asylum.

Doras is not able to provide direct assistance, advocacy, or humanitarian aid for people currently outside of Ireland.

Nobody can apply for resettlement. The UNHCR  (UN Refugee Agency) identifies people who are most at risk of serious harm in the country where they are registered, and also in their home country, usually because of threats to their life, freedom or physical safety, or other serious violations of human rights.

For more information visit the UNHCR website.

All new applications must now be made at the IPO Applications Centre in Citywest Convention Centre, Garters Lane, Saggart, Co. Dublin, D24 A38Y.

The IPO Reception & Fingerprinting office on Mount St Lower, Dublin 2 is now closed for all new applications for International Protection. 

Yes, international protection applicants can remain in Ireland while their application is under review.

Yes. Accommodation and basic needs (like meals) are provided by the International Protection Accommodation Services (IPAS) through the Direct Provision system.

You’ll also receive a weekly allowance:

  • €38.80 per adult
  • €29.80 per child
     

Yes. You can get free legal advice and representation through:

  • The Legal Aid Board (for applications and appeals). More information here.
  • The Irish Refugee Council’s Independent Law Centre (for early legal support). More information here.

You must inform the International Protection Office (IPO) of your legal representative’s details.
 

International protection applicants can be granted a permission to access the labour market.

You may be eligible for this permission, if you have been waiting 6 months or more for the first decision on your international protection application. That is 6 months after the date shown as “Application Received” on your TRC (blue card).

If you have received this first decision within 6 months you are not eligible for a Labour Market Access Permission.

You can find more information, including other qualifying criteria and how to apply here.

Contact Doras for free and confidential support