Ireland's New Family Reunification Policy

Ireland’s Immigration Service Delivery (ISD) has introduced an updated Non-EEA Family Reunification Policy, published on 26 November 2025, which will shape how non-EEA nationals can bring close family members to live with them in Ireland. The revised policy provides clearer rules on who may sponsor family members, what conditions dependents receive, and what financial requirements must be met. This blog outlines the key changes and considerations for employment permit holders navigating the new framework.

Family Reunification Remains a Discretionary Immigration Process

One of the most important points in the revised document is that family reunification is not a guaranteed right. ISD confirms that applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis, and the sponsor carries the responsibility of proving that all criteria are met.

Decisions are influenced by several core factors, including the sponsor’s immigration status, the genuineness of the relationship, financial capacity and accommodation, dependency between the sponsor and family member, as well as public security and immigration history considerations. This means that even where a sponsor meets the general requirements, the quality and completeness of supporting documentation can have a significant impact on the outcome.

Who Can Sponsor Family Members Under the Revised Policy?

The revised policy introduces clearer sponsor categories, which is particularly relevant for employment permit holders.

Category B Sponsors

• Critical Skills Employment Permit holders

• Researchers on Hosting Agreements

• Intra-Corporate Transferees

• Full-time non-locum doctors

• Certain scholarship programme holders

For many skilled workers, this category offers the most immediate access to family reunification options.

Category C Sponsors

• General Employment Permit holders

• Reactivation Employment Permit holders

• Certain Stamp 4 holders not covered elsewhere

This distinction affects when applications can be made and what conditions dependants may receive.

Waiting Periods:

Under the current arrangements, Critical Skills Employment Permit holders (Category B) may apply to reunite with their nuclear family immediately, provided all requirements are satisfied. General Employment Permit holders (Category C) must generally complete 12 months of residence in Ireland before applying for nuclear family reunification.

Immigration Permissions Granted to Dependants

One of the most notable developments is the clarification of the immigration stamps granted to family members once reunification is approved. Appendix C confirms that spouses, partners, and dependent children (aged 16–18) of employment permit holders may now receive Stamp 1G in many cases.

Stamp 1G provides access to employment without the need for a separate employment permit, which can greatly support dependent integration and household stability.

The policy also notes that dependent adult relatives are typically issued Stamp 0, reflecting a much more restrictive category with higher evidential thresholds.

Financial Thresholds: Increased Emphasis on Sponsor Income

ISD places strong emphasis on the sponsor’s ability to support family members without reliance on State supports. Appendix D provides updated financial thresholds for sponsors bringing minor children to Ireland.

For example, under the 2025 figures, sponsoring one child requires a minimum net annual income of €36,660 (approximately €44,300 gross), while sponsoring two children requires €41,912 net (approximately €54,200 gross).

These thresholds will be updated annually and should be considered carefully by employment permit holders when assessing long-term affordability and eligibility.

Who Is Not Covered Under This Policy?

ISD clarifies that this policy is not intended to replace other immigration routes. It does not apply to:

• EU nationals exercising free movement rights

• UK nationals

• Temporary Protection beneficiaries

• Most students (except limited PhD and scholarship categories)

  
  

Family members already present in Ireland on another permission, such as visitors or students, generally cannot apply through this scheme.

Final Thoughts: Planning Family Reunification Under the New Framework

Ireland’s revised Non-EEA Family Reunification Policy provides a clearer structure for skilled workers seeking to bring family members to Ireland. However, it also confirms that applications remain discretionary and closely tied to sponsor income, immigration history, and compliance.

For employment permit holders, family reunification is often one of the most significant steps toward long-term settlement. Ensuring that applications are prepared correctly, supported thoroughly, and aligned with the updated policy requirements is essential.

At Future Direct, we assist employment permit holders and their families with immigration planning, dependant permissions, and family reunification applications under the revised framework.

If you are considering sponsoring a family member or would like professional guidance on the updated policy, please contact our team at +353 (01) 513 4085 or email info@futuredirect.ie.