Ireland offers a unique immigration permission for individuals in committed, long-term relationships with eligible sponsors. Known as the De Facto Immigration Permission, it is designed for non-EEA nationals in relationships with Irish, UK, or legally resident non-EEA nationals. However, understanding and fulfilling the requirements is crucial for a successful application. This blog provides a comprehensive guide to help you through the process.
What is a De Facto Relationship?
A de facto relationship is defined as a cohabiting relationship akin to marriage or civil partnership, but not recognised in law. For the purpose of this immigration permission, you must prove:
Mutual Commitment:Â Both partners are committed to a shared life to the exclusion of others.
Genuine and Continuing Relationship:Â The relationship is ongoing and sincere.
Cohabitation for Two Years:Â Evidence must show the couple has lived together for at least two years or does not live separately on a permanent basis.
No Familial Relationship:Â The partners must not be related by blood.
Applicants must demonstrate not only that they’ve lived together for two years but also that the relationship is authentic and intended to continue.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for de facto immigration permission, you must meet the following conditions:
Be a non-EEA national legally residing in Ireland.
Be in a relationship with an eligible sponsor, which includes:
An Irish national.
A UK national residing in Ireland.
A non-EEA national with a Stamp 1, 4, or 5 Irish Residence permission.
Other Conditions:
You and your partner must intend to live together permanently in Ireland.
If your partner is a non-EEA national, they must hold qualifying residency permissions (Stamp 2 and 3 holders are ineligible as sponsors).
Both partners must demonstrate financial independence (not relying on social welfare).
Applicants must have private medical insurance.
Both partners must show they are of good character and compliant with Irish laws.
Key Application Details
You’ll need to provide personal details, including:
Full name, marital status, nationality, and contact information.
Immigration history, including your arrival date in Ireland, prior residences, and any deportation history.
Relationship timeline, including the start date of your relationship, cohabitation, and future plans.
Partner (Sponsor) Information
The sponsor’s information must also be included, such as:
Full name, marital status, nationality, and PPS number.
Immigration status and details of their current activity in Ireland.
Supporting Documents Checklist
1. Identity Documents
Passports of both the applicant and the sponsor.
2. Evidence of Relationship
A history of the relationship, including:
Letters, emails, and social media exchanges.
Photographs together.
Proof of visits (air tickets, itineraries).
Proof of cohabitation for at least two years, such as shared utility bills or rental agreements.
Evidence of financial interdependence, such as joint bank accounts or purchases.
3. Sponsor’s Residency Status
A copy of the sponsor’s current work permit and Irish Residence Permit (IRP) card.
4. Evidence of Residence in Ireland
Depending on the living situation, the following must be provided:
Renting: Rental agreements, landlord letters, and utility bills.
Living with family/friends: A letter from the house owner and utility bills.
Home owning: Mortgage statements or title deeds and utility bills.
5. Sponsor’s Activity in Ireland
Sponsors must provide evidence of their current activity, based on their employment or self-employment status:
Employment:
A letter from the employer detailing the terms of employment.
Recent payslips and employment summary from Revenue.ie.
Bank statements for the last six months.
Self-employment:
Tax assessments or registration from Revenue.ie.
Business bank statements for six months.
Study:
A letter from the educational institution with course details.
Bank statements for six months.
6. Criminal Convictions
A police clearance certificate for countries of residence in the last five years (excluding Ireland).
Tips for a Successful Application
To improve your chances of success:
Ensure all documents are complete and clear. Combine multi-page documents into single PDF files.
Focus on demonstrating the durability and genuineness of your relationship.
Provide comprehensive financial evidence showing self-sufficiency.
Submit up-to-date documents to avoid delays.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Incomplete forms or missing documentation: This leads to automatic rejection of the application.
Failure to demonstrate cohabitation: Visits or correspondence alone do not suffice; physical cohabitation is critical.
Insufficient financial proof: Ensure both partners’ financial stability is clearly documented.
The de facto immigration permission process in Ireland is designed to support genuine, long-term relationships. While the application process may seem rigorous, following the guidelines and providing strong evidence ensures the best chance of success. If your case is complex or you require additional help kindly arrange a one-on-one discussion by scheduling an appointment here.
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