International Protection in Ireland

What is International Protection?

International protection covers two statuses:

• Refugee status — for people who face persecution based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership of a particular social group.
• Subsidiary protection — for people who do not qualify as refugees but would face serious harm if returned to their country.

How to Apply

Apply at the International Protection Office (IPO) at 79–83 Lower Mount Street, Dublin 2, or at a port of entry. You will be given a Temporary Residence Certificate (TRC) — your identity document while in the system.

Accommodation — IPAS

The International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS) provides accommodation to applicants while their case is being decided. You may opt out if you can support yourself independently.

Right to Work

If your application has been pending for 6 months with no first-instance decision, you can apply for a Labour Market Access Permission, allowing you to work. You will need a PPS number to work legally.

The Decision & Appeals

The IPO makes a first-instance decision. If refused, you can appeal to the International Protection Appeals Tribunal (IPAT). Legal aid is available through the Legal Aid Board.

If Your Application is Successful

If granted refugee status or subsidiary protection, you receive a Stamp 4 giving you the right to live and work without restriction, access public services, and apply to bring family members to Ireland. You will also receive a travel document as you may not be able to use your home country passport.