This is a big change from the old system, and it's still bedding in. Get advice from the Irish Refugee Council before you apply: a mistake in a name or date of birth can cause problems later.
Quick facts
- Family in Ireland
- Apply within 12 months of your declaration
- Family abroad
- Wait 2 years from your declaration
- Unaccompanied minors
- Wait can be waived
- Means (family abroad)
- No prescribed welfare for 2 years, minimum income
- Questionnaire
- Return within 28 days
- Refused?
- Judicial review only
Which family members
A spouse or civil partner, children under 18 who are unmarried, and older children who depend on you or have a serious disability. Parents, if you're under 18, or if they depend on you. For family abroad, a de facto partner you lived with can also be included.
"If you have another residence status, (for example, permission to remain ) you do not have a right to family reunification." They'd need a join family visa instead.
The time limits
Family already in Ireland: "You must apply within 12 months of date of your declaration as a refugee or a person with subsidiary protection."
Family abroad: "You must wait 2 years from the date of your declaration as a refugee or a person with subsidiary protection." "The Minister can waive this rule if you are an unaccompanied minor."
The money test, for family abroad
"You must not be getting any prescribed social welfare payment for 2 years before your application for family reunification (subject to a grace period of 6 months in total in the previous 2 years)." The same applies to housing supports.
"You must have a minimum level of income according to the number of family members that you are applying to bring to Ireland."
How to apply
Write to the Family Reunification Section of Immigration Service Delivery with your name, Person ID and address, and each family member's details, or email FRU_IPA@justice.ie. The Irish Refugee Council has a template email. "You must complete this within 28 days and return it with the documents listed on the questionnaire."
"Your family must join you before the date stated on the decision letter." "Whether you applied for family reunification before or after 12 June 2026, the only way you can challenge a decision to refuse your application is by applying for judicial review ."
Common questions
How long do refugees have to wait for family reunification in Ireland?
For family abroad, 2 years from your declaration under the rules from 12 June 2026. For family already in Ireland, you must apply within 12 months.
Who can refugees bring to Ireland?
A spouse or civil partner, unmarried children under 18, dependent older children, and parents in some cases. For family abroad, a de facto partner too.
Is there an income requirement for family reunification?
For family abroad, yes: a minimum income by family size, and no prescribed welfare or housing supports for 2 years, with a 6-month grace period.
Can I appeal a family reunification refusal?
No. The only way to challenge a refusal is judicial review, so get legal advice.