International Protection (Asylum)
Written in plain language for general understanding. This is educational content, not legal advice. Based on Irish Acts of the Oireachtas, statutory instruments, and official guidance.
Irish National Law
What is this right?
If you are fleeing persecution or serious harm, you can apply for international protection in Ireland. This covers:
- Refugee status: If you have a well-founded fear of persecution based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership of a particular social group.
- Subsidiary protection: If you face a real risk of serious harm (death penalty, torture, or indiscriminate violence in armed conflict) but don't qualify as a refugee.
- Permission to remain: Even if neither is granted, the Minister may give you permission to remain in the State on humanitarian grounds.
The International Protection Office (IPO) processes applications. The process is governed by the International Protection Act 2015 (the "single procedure" — both refugee status and subsidiary protection are assessed together).
When does it apply?
- You are in Ireland (or at the border) and fear returning to your country of origin.
- You must make your application as soon as reasonably practicable after arriving — delays can affect credibility.
- The Dublin Regulation (EU) may apply — if you passed through another EU country first, that country may be responsible for your claim.
- Unaccompanied minors have special protections — Tusla (the Child and Family Agency) provides care.
What should you do?
- Present at the IPO in Dublin (79-83 Lower Mount Street) or declare your intention at a Garda station or at the border.
- You will be given a temporary residence certificate and assigned to Direct Provision accommodation (or own accommodation if you have it).
- Attend your interview with the IPO — this is the most important part of the process. You can have a legal representative present.
- Apply for legal aid through the Legal Aid Board's International Protection panel — this is available to all applicants.
- If refused, you can appeal to the International Protection Appeals Tribunal (IPAT).
What should you NOT do?
- Don't delay your application — the longer you wait, the harder it is to explain the delay.
- Don't provide false information — inconsistencies will undermine your credibility.
- Don't miss your interview — failure to attend can result in your application being deemed withdrawn.
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