Important

The information on this page only applies to International Protection Applications made after 12 June 2026.

Person completing paperwork related to international protection responsibilities and application process

Your responsibilities

As an applicant for international protection, you have a number of
important responsibilities throughout the process. It is essential that
you read and understand these carefully, as failure to comply may
affect your application.

As an applicant, you must:

Cooperate with the process

You must submit information as soon as you can, attend interviews when required, and comply with Irish laws and follow all instructions given by the IPO or the Minister.

Keep your details up to date

You must inform the IPO immediately if your address changes. All correspondence will be sent to the address held on file.

Include your details in all correspondence

Always state your name, address, nationality and Personal Identity Number or Reference Number in any communication with the IPO.

Do not leave Ireland without consent

While you are awaiting a decision on your application, you must stay in Ireland and not travel to another EU+ country or the United Kingdom (including Northern Ireland) without the permission of the authorities. If you do so without permission, your application for international protection may be negatively impacted.

Do not work without permission

You may not work without permission. You may apply for permission to work if a decision on your application has not been issued within 5 months.

Keep copies of all your documents

You or your solicitor must keep copies of all documentation received from the IPO.

Obligations

If you do not meet your obligations as an
International Protection applicant:

  • Your application will be considered withdrawn or rejected. This means that you may lose your status as an applicant for international protection and all the related rights.

  • In some circumstances, the authorities may decide to reduce or cancel some type of support or some services.
  • If an applicant provides misleading or false information related to their identity or their application, or if they destroy or forge documents, this may have a negative impact on their application. Their application may be rejected and they may not obtain international protection.
  • International protection could also be taken away from you if the authorities find out later that you did not tell the truth during the asylum procedure.

Next Steps

Before you apply

Information about preparing for the international protection process.

Help and Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to common questions about interviews, legal support, timelines, and the application process.