The Programme for Government 2025 contains a commitment to publish a National Migration and Integration Strategy detailing how we intend to meet the demands and the opportunities facing Ireland’s society and economy over the next decade. My Department is currently working collaboratively with other Government departments to develop this strategy with the aim to publish Ireland’s first overarching whole-of-government National Migration and Integration Strategy in 2026.
As part of this strategic approach, I am reviewing the area of student permissions, including with regard to English Language students. This work is aimed at ensuring that the system remains robust and rules-based, supports high-quality education providers, and continues to offer a positive experience for genuine students coming to Ireland.
At Government level, the administration and management of international student programmes is within the remit of the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science (DFHERIS), with my Department having responsibility for visa and related residency policies.
I have met recently with the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science (DFHERIS), James Lawless, to discuss this work and explore how our departments can continue to collaborate effectively on this work.
Given that this review into student permissions is at its initial stages, there are no current plans for immediate public or sectoral consultation at this juncture. However, my Department will consider its engagement with the English Language sector once more detailed proposals are developed.
I hope to bring forward proposals in this area in the coming months.
