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Ireland is an attractive destination for many people who wish to reunite with their loved ones. If you are a non-EEA national and you want to live in Ireland to join a family member who is already legally residing there, you may need to apply for a Join Family Visa.
This type of visa allows eligible family members to come to Ireland for long-term residence and, in many cases, to live and work. However, the process can be complex and depends on your relationship with the family member and their status in Ireland.
Who Can Apply for a Join Family Visa?
You may qualify for a Join Family Visa if you are the family member of:
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An Irish citizen
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A non-EEA national who holds an employment permit
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A researcher on a Hosting Agreement
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A non-EEA national with Stamp 4 permission
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A refugee or person with subsidiary protection
Eligible family members typically include:
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Spouses and civil partners
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De facto partners (unmarried partners in a durable relationship)
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Dependent children under 18 (or up to 23 if in full-time education)
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Elderly dependent parents in some cases
How to Qualify
The sponsor (your family member in Ireland) must meet certain conditions:
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They must be living legally in Ireland with the right to reside and sufficient income to support you without relying on public funds.
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For Irish citizens, financial requirements vary depending on whether the citizen is returning with you or already living in Ireland.
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If the sponsor holds an employment permit, they usually must earn enough to meet a minimum income threshold and prove they can accommodate you.
Application Process
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Visa Application:
If you are from a country that requires a visa to enter Ireland, you must apply for a long stay D visa before travelling. -
Documents:
You must provide supporting documents such as:-
Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate, evidence of cohabitation for partners)
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Proof of sponsor’s legal status in Ireland
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Evidence of financial support and accommodation
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Valid passport and visa application form
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Processing Time:
Join Family Visa applications can take several months to process, so it is important to apply well in advance. -
Entry and Registration:
If approved, you can travel to Ireland and must register with the local immigration office to get your residence permission (usually Stamp 4). This allows you to live and, in most cases, work in Ireland.
Can You Work on a Join Family Visa?
Many family members granted Stamp 4 permission can work in Ireland without an employment permit. However, there are exceptions — for example, elderly dependent parents may not have automatic work rights.
Final Thoughts
The Join Family Visa is an important route for families who wish to reunite and live together in Ireland. It is vital to check the specific requirements for your relationship type and ensure your sponsor meets the eligibility rules. Because of the detailed documentation needed, many applicants seek professional advice to strengthen their application.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Visa policies and immigration rules can change. Always refer to the latest information from the Irish Immigration Service Delivery (ISD) or consult a qualified immigration advisor before making any travel or immigration decisions.
July 19, 2025
