Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 May 2026
883. Deputy Marie Sherlock asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration further to Parliamentary Question No. 751 of 19 May 2026, the staffing levels at the visa desk in Abuja; the number of applications that were received in 2025; the processing times for visas at that desk regardless of their nationality; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40269/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI can advise the Deputy that my Department currently operates seven overseas Visa Offices in addition to the Visa Office in Dublin. These are located in Abuja, Beijing, London, Moscow, Ankara, Abu Dhabi and New Delhi. In addition, staff of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade process certain visa applications in Irish Embassies abroad under delegated authority from my Department.
In 2025 there were 7,712 visa applications of all types received in the Abuja visa office and there are currently 4 decision makers assigned there.
I can assure the Deputy that while processing times can vary across the different Visa Offices and Irish Embassies, the majority of visas are processed within stated target times. However, some applications can take considerably longer.
Processing times for all applications are influenced by a number of factors. The time it can take varies depending on the type and complexity of application; individual circumstances; peak application periods, such as holidays or the start of the school year; and, crucially, the quality and completeness of the application lodged. Verifying an application is an important part of our immigration system and the checks involved can take time to complete.
The Visa Division of my Department have advised that processing times in the Abuja Visa Office are in line with those in the Dublin Visa Office. These are available at: www.irishimmigration.ie/visa-decisions/.
