What is international protection in Ireland and who can apply?
International protection is the formal process for seeking refugee status or subsidiary protection in Ireland under the International Protection Act 2015. Anyone present in Ireland who fears persecution or serious harm in their country of origin can apply at the International Protection Office (IPO) in Dublin. You must apply as soon as reasonably practicable after arriving in Ireland.
How do I apply for international protection in Ireland?
You apply in person at the International Protection Office (IPO), 79-83 Lower Mount Street, Dublin 2. Bring any identity documents you have. You will complete an application form (IPO1) and attend a preliminary interview. If you are already in the asylum support system, contact IPAS (International Protection Accommodation Service) for assistance.
What is the difference between refugee status and subsidiary protection in Ireland?
Refugee status is granted if you have a well-founded fear of persecution in your country of origin due to race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership of a particular social group. Subsidiary protection is granted if you do not qualify as a refugee but would face a real risk of serious harm (such as torture or indiscriminate violence) if returned.
What rights do I have while my international protection application is pending?
While your application is pending, you are entitled to remain in Ireland. IPAS provides accommodation and material support. You can apply for a work permit after 6 months if no first instance decision has been issued. You can access healthcare and education. FLAC and the Legal Aid Board can provide legal advice.
What happens at the IPO interview in Ireland?
The IPO will conduct a personal interview with you, usually with an interpreter provided. You will be asked about your background, your reasons for seeking protection, and what you fear would happen if you returned. Be as detailed and honest as possible. You can bring a support person but they cannot speak on your behalf during the interview.
What is the role of UNHCR in Ireland's protection system?
The UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees) monitors Ireland's asylum system and can provide guidance and support. UNHCR has an office in Dublin and works with the Irish government and NGOs. You can contact UNHCR Ireland at unhcr.org/ie for information, though they do not process individual cases.
What is permission to remain and how does it differ from refugee status?
Permission to remain is a third option available to those who do not qualify for refugee status or subsidiary protection but who have other compelling humanitarian reasons to stay in Ireland. It is decided by the Minister for Justice. It does not carry the same full rights as refugee status but allows you to remain lawfully in Ireland.
What free legal support is available for international protection applicants?
FLAC (Free Legal Advice Centres) runs clinics and can provide free advice at flac.ie. The Legal Aid Board has a dedicated Refugee Legal Service providing free legal aid for international protection cases, including IPO applications and IPAT appeals. Contact the Refugee Legal Service at legalaidboard.ie.
How do I appeal if my international protection application is refused?
If the IPO refuses your application for refugee status, subsidiary protection, and permission to remain, you can appeal to the International Protection Appeals Tribunal (IPAT) at ipat.ie. The appeal must be filed within 15 working days of the IPO decision. Written submissions and additional evidence can be included.
How does uplaw.ai help with international protection applications in Ireland?
Tell uplaw.ai your situation — where you are from, why you left, and where you are in the process. We help you understand what the IPO considers, what evidence to gather, and how to prepare for your interview or IPAT appeal.
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