Waterford

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Immigration Offices

Resources for visa applications, residence permits, and other immigration services.

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Immigration Services in Waterford, Ireland

In Ireland, immigration services are primarily managed by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS), which operates under the Department of Justice. For residents of Waterford and the surrounding areas, immigration-related matters are handled locally by the Waterford Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB). Below are the details you need to know:

1. Location and Contact Details

Waterford Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB)

  • Address: Waterford Garda Station, Ballybricken, Waterford, Ireland.
  • Phone: +353 51 305 300
  • Email: Contact through the Garda Station or INIS website for specific queries.
  • Website: www.irishimmigration.ie

2. Opening Hours

  • Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM โ€“ 5:00 PM
  • Closed: Weekends and Public Holidays

Note: Appointments are required for most immigration services. Walk-ins are generally not accepted, so ensure you book an appointment in advance.

3. Services Offered

The Waterford GNIB office provides the following key immigration services:

a. Registration of Immigration Permission

  • Non-EEA (European Economic Area) nationals staying in Ireland for more than 90 days must register their immigration permission.
  • Upon registration, you will receive an Irish Residence Permit (IRP) card.

b. Renewal of Immigration Permission

  • If your current immigration permission is expiring, you can renew it at the GNIB office.

c. Change of Immigration Status

  • If your circumstances change (e.g., switching from a student visa to a work visa), you can apply for a change in status.

d. Re-entry Visa Applications

  • For certain visa-required nationals, the GNIB office can assist with re-entry visa applications.

e. General Immigration Queries

  • The office provides guidance on various immigration-related matters, including family reunification, asylum, and residency.

4. Costs

  • Irish Residence Permit (IRP): โ‚ฌ300
    • Payable by credit/debit card at the time of your appointment. Cash is not accepted.
  • Re-entry Visa (if applicable): โ‚ฌ60 (single entry) or โ‚ฌ100 (multiple entry).
  • Other services may have additional fees depending on the type of application.

5. Required Procedures

Step 1: Book an Appointment

  • Appointments are mandatory and can be booked online via the INIS website.
  • Ensure you book well in advance, as slots can fill up quickly.

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents

  • The documents required depend on the service you are availing. Below are common requirements for registration or renewal of immigration permission:
    • Passport: Valid and up-to-date.
    • Proof of Address: Utility bill, bank statement, or tenancy agreement.
    • Proof of Financial Support: Bank statements, payslips, or sponsorship letters.
    • Proof of Purpose of Stay: Work permit, study letter, or family reunification documents.
    • GNIB/IRP Card (if renewing): Your current card, if applicable.
    • Appointment Confirmation Email: Printout or digital copy.

Step 3: Attend Your Appointment

  • Arrive at least 15 minutes early with all required documents.
  • Pay the applicable fee during your appointment.

Step 4: Receive Your IRP Card

  • After your appointment, your IRP card will be posted to your registered address within 10-15 working days.

6. Local Considerations and Tips

a. Plan Ahead

  • Appointments can be scarce, especially during peak times (e.g., start of academic terms). Book as early as possible.

b. Be Thorough with Documentation

  • Double-check that you have all required documents before your appointment. Missing documents can result in delays or the need to reschedule.

c. Language Assistance

  • If English is not your first language, consider bringing a friend or interpreter to help with communication.

d. Public Transport to the Office

  • Waterford Garda Station is centrally located and accessible by public transport:
    • Bus: Waterford City Bus services (e.g., Bus ร‰ireann) have routes that stop near Ballybricken.
    • Taxi: Taxis are widely available in Waterford and can be booked via apps or local taxi services.

e. Parking

  • Limited parking is available near the Garda Station. If driving, allow extra time to find parking.

f. COVID-19 Considerations

  • Check for any updated COVID-19 guidelines on the INIS website before your appointment.

7. Additional Resources

  • Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS):
    www.irishimmigration.ie
    For detailed information on visas, residency, and citizenship.

  • Citizens Information Centre (Waterford):

    • Address: 37 Lower Yellow Road, Waterford, Ireland.
    • Phone: +353 81 807 8000
    • Website: www.citizensinformation.ie
      Provides free advice and support on immigration and other public services.

By following this guide, you should be well-prepared to navigate the immigration services in Waterford, Ireland. If you have further questions or need clarification, feel free to ask!