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Domestic Abuse
No one should be forced to remain in an abusive relationship in order to preserve their permission to remain in the State. If you are the victim of domestic abuse by a dependent family member you may qualify to apply for an independent residency status in the State. Dependent immigration permission refers to a right of residence that the Irish Naturalisation & Immigration Service (INIS) has granted to non-EU citizens based on their marriage to or relationship to an Irish, EU or non-EU national who has the right of residence in the State.
The term domestic violence doesn’t just mean physical violence. It can involve emotional abuse, isolation from family or friends of support networks control of daily routines, such as access to money, personal items, food, outside contact or transport.
We know many people in a situation of dependency who are victims of domestic violence are sometimes reluctant to seek information. This is because they are unsure how to seek help or because they are worried about their immigration status and whether there are any supports available to them.
In order to apply for independent status as a victim of domestic violence, the person making the application is required to be in possession of valid immigration permission which is dependent upon a family member. Applications are made in writing to the General Immigration Section of INIS. They may require documentation in support of your application such as:
- An Order of the Court such as a barring order, protection order or a Safety Order
- Medical reports indicating injuries consistent with domestic violence
- Garda report of incidents of domestic violence,
- Letters from domestic violence support groups, or the HSE
- Any other evidence indicating experiences of domestic violence
It is important to note that while the above list is of suggested documents, it is not expected that everyone applying for independent status will be in a position to supply all the documents listed.
Applications of this nature are subject to the discretion of the Minister of Justice & Equality. If the Minister is satisfied you are a victim of domestic violence he will issue you with an independent permission to remain in the State, similar to the permission previously held. If you previously were in receipt of a Stamp 3 and require the right to work, the Minister, upon being given evidence of the requirement to work, may issue you with a Stamp 4.
For further detailed information please contact our Information Line.