What is the change?

Due to the ongoing situation in Ukraine the Department of Foreign Affairs has lifted visa requirements for all Ukrainian citizens entering Ireland.

Separately, the Irish Visa Application Centre (VFS) in Kiev, Ukraine will be closed until further notice.

Key points:

• Implementation time frame: This change takes place with immediate effect (25 February 2022) and until further notice.
• Who is affected: All Ukrainian citizens who intend to travel to Ireland.
• Next steps: Employers should update their employees who were applying for an entry visa as they will no longer be required to apply. Those who travel to Ireland without a visa during this period will then have 90 days after arrival to regularise their position. This position will be kept under ongoing review with the impact monitored closely.
  Individuals whose documents have been sent to the Visa Application Centre in Kiev will be dealt with on an individual basis

Analysis and Comments:

The Irish government has made this decision in line with other EU countries and in response to monitoring the emerging situation in Ukraine.

Deloitte welcomes the humanitarian support the government is providing to Ukrainian citizens by deciding to waive visa requirements for travel to Ireland.

The closure of the Visa Application Centre does not affect Ukrainian nationals who have not yet applied for Irish visa applications, as they no longer require a visa in order to enter Ireland. However, the closure may affect those who have filed their original documents to the Visa Application Centre and who require them back. Assistance in such circumstances should be dealt with on a case-by-case basis.

If you have employees impacted by the above changes, please contact the Deloitte immigration team to assist.