Ireland restricts migration: new rules for refugees and citizenship

The Irish government has adopted new migration rules that increase the residency period for obtaining citizenship to five years and tighten criteria for applicants who want to invite relatives from abroad. New measures also require asylum seekers to participate in funding their accommodation, and individuals receiving social benefits will not be able to obtain citizenship. The aim of these changes is to regulate the migration process and ensure sustainable population growth in the country.

Irish Minister of Justice Jim O'Callaghan acknowledged the contribution of migrants to the country's economy and society, but noted that a balanced approach is needed to manage the migration process. Some changes also concern the residency periods for newcomers from Ukraine in state housing, reducing them to 30 days.