Immigration Support Services

Tuesday, 5 November 2024

Ceisteanna (741)

Niamh Smyth

Ceist:

741. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Justice if consideration can be given to waiving the €300 fee for the immigration residence permit for two Gazan scholars currently studying at SETU (details supplied), who, while not officially recognised as refugees, were evacuated from Gaza and are on student visas; and if steps can be taken to support institutions like SETU, which are covering all accommodation, fees, meals, stipends, and health insurance for these students without Government support. [44502/24]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Justice

I would like to inform the Deputy that waiving the registration fee is not possible in the situation outlined.

It is only under certain circumstances that an applicant is exempt from the registration fee, which I have listed below:

• Under 18 at the time of registration

• A spouse, widow or widower of an Irish citizen

• A civil partner or surviving civil partner of an Irish citizen

• A spouse or dependent of an EU national who has a residence permit

• A Programme Refugee or a person granted Refugee Status under Section 47(1) of the International Protection Act 2015

• A person granted Subsidiary Protection under Section 47(4) of the International Protection Act 2015

• A person granted Permission to Remain under Section 49(4)(a) of the International Protection Act 2015

• A family member reunited with a recognised refugee in Ireland under Section 56 of the International Protection Act 2015.

The issue of supports to individual students and third level institutions is best addressed by my colleague, the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science.