Hassle-Free IRP Card Renewals Now Available Online Across Ireland
Dublin: In a significant reform, Ireland’s Minister for Justice, Helen McEntee, has announced that all residents can now renew their Irish Residence Permit (IRP) cards online, eliminating the need to visit Garda or immigration offices in person. This decision, part of a broader modernisation initiative by the Department of Justice, will come into effect on November 4 and is set to bring relief to those whose IRP cards are expiring.
Previously, the online renewal system was only available to residents in Dublin, Kildare, Meath, Wicklow, Cork, and Limerick. However, this service is now being extended nationwide through the Immigration Service Delivery (ISD) portal. Minister McEntee emphasised that this move aims to streamline the administrative functions of An Garda Síochána, allowing officers to focus more on critical investigations and maintaining law and order. She also highlighted that €25 million has been allocated in the national budget for the modernisation of the immigration system, with €5 million earmarked specifically for upgrading the current infrastructure.
Towards a More Efficient Immigration System
As part of this modernisation drive, the government is working towards implementing a “single window” system for all immigration-related procedures. This will gradually phase out the requirement for first-time registration at Garda stations, with plans to centralise all registrations at the Burgh Quay registration office in Dublin. Once this system is fully operational, it is expected to enhance the customer experience and significantly improve the efficiency and security of immigration services.
Under the new online system, applicants will no longer need to appear in person at Burgh Quay to renew their immigration permits. Renewals can be submitted up to 12 weeks before the expiration of the IRP card, with applications processed in the order they are received. Approved cards will be mailed directly to the applicant’s address.
First-Time Registration Procedures
While online renewals are now available nationwide, the procedure for first-time registration remains unchanged for now. First-time applicants residing in Dublin, Meath, Kildare, Wicklow, Cork, and Limerick will still need to book an appointment at Burgh Quay. Those living in other counties should contact their local Garda station for registration details.
Minister McEntee stated that these reforms aim to make the immigration system more user-friendly, efficient, and secure, marking a significant step forward in Ireland’s ongoing efforts to modernise its immigration processes.
Irish Samachar English News
{OR} Kindly click to follow the Irish Samachar News channel on WhatsApp