Other Family Member of an Irish
National

Ireland's family reunification policy focuses on the nuclear family: spouses, partners and minor children, with a separate Stamp 0 route for dependent parents and dependent adult children. Other relatives of Irish citizens, such as siblings, grandparents, nieces or nephews, aren't generally eligible to join them. However, ISD will consider applications in exceptional circumstances, under the policy's provisions for discretionary cases. Exceptional usually means serious dependency, care needs or humanitarian circumstances that make it unreasonable for the relative to stay where they are. There's no fixed list, and each case is decided on its own facts, so strong evidence is essential: proof of the family relationship, evidence of dependency such as regular money transfers, medical reports or care records, and evidence of the circumstances themselves. The Irish sponsor must show they can support the relative without public funds and provide suitable accommodation and private medical insurance. If the application is granted, non-nuclear family members usually receive dependent status without the right to work. For short stays of up to 90 days, a visit visa is the simpler option.

There's no fixed list. ISD looks at the whole situation, such as serious dependency, illness or humanitarian factors. We'll tell you honestly if your case is strong enough.

Not through family reunification. They would need their own permission, such as an employment permit.

Yes, within 2 months of the refusal letter.

For short stays of up to 90 days, yes. See our Visit Family or Friends Visa service.

There's no fixed period, but longer, well-documented dependency is stronger evidence. Regular money transfers and care records help.

The sponsor must show they can support the family member without public funds. We'll review the finances against current policy.

Usually not. Non-nuclear family members of Irish citizens are generally granted dependent status without access to the labour market.