Option 1: ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) classes and basic literacy.  

• These courses are free.  

• These are provided by Education and Training Boards (ETBs), libraries and some charities, check out these links for more information: NALA; ETB; Courses.ie 

 

Option 2: FET (Further Education & Training), QQI Level 1-6  

• These courses will have a fee, and that will depend on your nationality and how long you’re in the country.  

• Depending on the level, you may or may not need an LMAP (Labour Market Access Permission) to access a course.  

• QQI Level 1 – 4: You can access some FET courses at this level without an LMAP  

• QQI Level 5: You can access some part time FET courses at this level without an LMAP under the Back to Education Initiative (BTEI).  

• QQI Level 5-6: For most full time FET course at this level, you will need to wait until you get your LMAP.  

• You will need to research which colleges will accept an application from you, as not all colleges will accept an application from you. 

• You can look up courses here  and here. It is advisable to contact the college. 

• There’s no guarantee that you’ll get a place, but you can apply. You will need a PPSN and proof of address to apply. 

 

Option 3: University Access Courses 

• These are QQI Level 6 courses.  

• Some University Access courses are free. 

• You do not need an LMAP (Labour Market Access Permission) for these courses.  

• These courses are a great way of getting into university.  

• Many universities and colleges across Ireland have access courses, you will need to research which ones offer an access course.  

 

Financial support: 

There is very little financial support at this stage. You may be able to apply to the Irish Refugee Council Education Fund for support with courses at QQI Level 5 – Level 8. 

 

For information regarding a Labour Market Access Permission (LMAP), see the section on Employment.  

 

See the section on Further Resources for more information on navigating Further Education&Training, and Higher Education. 

Option 1: ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) classes and basic literacy.  

• These courses are free.  

• These are provided by Education and Training Boards (ETBs), libraries and some charities, check out these links for more information: NALA; ETB; Courses.ie 

 

Option 2: FET (Further Education & Training), QQI Level 1-6 

• These courses will have a fee, and that will depend on your nationality and how long you’re in the country. 

• There are many courses available to you. The best thing you can do is meet with an Adult Education Guidance Counsellor, find one near you. This is a free service, open to everyone. A Guidance Counsellor will help you find and apply for a course.  

• You can look up courses here  and here. It is advisable to contact the college. 

• There’s no guarantee that you’ll get a place, but you can apply. You will need a PPSN and proof of address to apply and IRP card. 

Financial assistance and support for this option: 

• Back to Education Allowance BTEA. This allowance is for people over 21 who’ve been unemployed and have been receiving a qualifying social welfare payment for at least 3 months. 

• Irish Refugee Council (IRC) Education Fund: this is for students who have little to no financial supports. Contact the IRC Education team to find out more by filling in the form here. 

• Society of St.Vincent De Paul SVP Education Grants: this is for students struggling financially to access or stay in third level education or training. Read more about this grant here to find out if you’re eligible. 

• Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme  is another option for further training.  

 

Option 3: University Access Courses 

• These are QQI Level 6 courses.  

• Some University Access courses are free. 

• These courses are a great way of getting into university.  

• Many universities and colleges across Ireland have access courses, you will need to research which ones offer an access course. 

 

Option 4: Higher Education: Undergraduate courses, Postgraduate Programmes 

• You can apply for undergraduate and postgraduate programmes; however, due to your length of time in the country and other criteria, you might face barriers accessing financial support.  

• You can look up courses here Courses.ie and here Qualifax website 

• Government financial support for higher education is generally limited to those who have been in Ireland for at least three years.  

 

Financial support:  

There is no government funding for Higher Education for someone who has been in Ireland less than 3 years. 

 

Scholarships: 

University of Sanctuary Scholarships 

• There are two types of scholarship: 1) fees and stipend (finance to support day-to-day costs); 2) fees only. 

• These scholarships are provided by universities for students who are not yet eligible for government funding. It’s important to note that not all universities provide these scholarships.  

• They are limited in number and very competitive. 

• You do not need to wait for a course offer before applying for a Sanctuary Scholarship, but you do need to have already applied for an Undergraduate/Postgraduate course. 

• You have to apply for each scholarship separately. They all have different closing dates and different application processes. 

• Some universities do not grant these scholarships to students who live far away from the campus – check the criteria of each scholarship carefully. 

 

See the section on Further Resources for more information on navigating Further Education&Training, and Higher Education. 

Option 1: ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) classes and basic literacy.  

• These courses are free.  

• These are provided by Education and Training Boards (ETBs), libraries and some charities, check out these links for more information: NALA; ETB; Courses.ie 

 

Option 2: FET (Further Education & Training), QQI Level 1-6 

• These courses will have a fee, and that will depend on your nationality and how long you’re in the country. 

• Depending on the level, you may or may not need an LMAP (Labour Market Access Permission) to access a course. 

• If you don’t have your LMAP, you can access some QQI Level 1 – 4 courses and some part time Level 5 courses. You will need to research which colleges will accept an application from you. 

• If you have a LMAP, there are many courses available to you. The best thing you can do is meet with an Adult Education Guidance Counsellor, find one near you. This is a free service, open to everyone. A Guidance Counsellor will help you find and apply for a course. 

• There’s no guarantee that you’ll get a place, but you can apply. You will need a PPSN and proof of address to apply. 

• You can look up courses here  and here. It is advisable to contact the college. 

Financial assistance and supports for this option: 

Irish Refugee Council Education Fund: this is for students who have little to no financial supports. Contact the IRC Education team to find out more by filling in the form here. 

Society of St.Vincent De Paul SVP Education Grants: this is for students struggling financially to access or stay in third level education or training. Read more about this grant here to find out if you’re eligible. 

 

Option 3: Youthreach Programmes 

• Youthreach is for young people aged 15 – 21. 

• You can apply to a Youthreach programme provided you meet the eligibility criteria;  

• Access depends on the local ETB (Education and Training Board). 

• Financial supports are limited and vary depending on the ETB, and other criteria. 

 

Option 4: University Access Courses 

• These are QQI Level 6 courses.  

• Some University Access courses are free. 

• You do not need an LMAP (Labour Market Access Permission) for these courses.  

• These courses are a great way of getting into university.  

• Many universities and colleges across Ireland have access courses, you will need to research which ones offer an access course. 

 

Option 5: Higher Education: Undergraduate courses, Postgraduate Programmes 

• You can apply for undergraduate and postgraduate programmes; however, due to your length of time in the country and immigration status, you might face barriers accessing financial support.  

• You can look up courses here Courses.ie and here Qualifax website 

• Government financial support for further and higher education is generally limited to those who have been in Ireland for at least three years. 

 

 

Other financial assistance and supports: 

Irish Refugee Council Education Fund: this is for students who have little to no financial supports. Contact the IRC Education team to find out more by filling in the form here. 

Society of St.Vincent De Paul SVP Education Grants: this is for students struggling financially to access or stay in third level education or training. Read more about this grant here to find out if you’re eligible. 

 

Scholarships: 

University of Sanctuary Scholarships 

• There are two types of scholarship: 1) fees and stipend (finance to support day-to-day costs); 2) fees only. 

• These scholarships are provided by universities for students who are not yet eligible for government funding.  

• It’s important to note that not all universities provide these scholarships.  

• They are available for those with less than three years’ residence, but these are limited in number and very competitive. 

• You do not need to wait for a course offer before applying for a Sanctuary Scholarship, but you do need to have already applied for an Undergraduate/Postgraduate course. 

• You have to apply for each scholarship separately. They all have different closing dates and different application processes. 

• Some universities do not grant these scholarships to students who live far away from the campus – check the criteria of each scholarship carefully. 

 

For information regarding a Labour Market Access Permission (LMAP), see the section on Employment.  

See the section on Further Resources for more information on navigating Further Education&Training, and Higher Education. 

At this point, you are treated the same as Irish citizens regarding education access.   

Option 1: ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) classes and basic literacy.  

• These courses are free.  

• These are provided by Education and Training Boards (ETBs), libraries and some charities, check out these links for more information: NALA; ETB; Courses.ie 

 

Option 2: FET (Further Education & Training), QQI Level 1-6 

• There are little to no fees for you at this point, check with the college/institution. 

• The best thing you can do is meet with an Adult Education Guidance Counsellor, find one near you. This is a free service, open to everyone. A Guidance Counsellor will help you find and apply for a course. 

• You can look up courses here  and here. It is advisable to contact the college. 

Financial assistance and supports for this option: 

Back to Education Allowance BTEA: This allowance is for people over 21 who’ve been unemployed and have been receiving a qualifying social welfare payment for at least 3 months for a QQI Level 5/6 course and 9 months for a QQI Level 7/8 course; You must have a Stamp 4 to apply for this. 

Irish Refugee Council Education Fund: this is for students who have little to no financial supports. Contact the IRC Education team to find out more by filling in the form here. 

Society of St.Vincent De Paul SVP Education Grants: this is for students struggling financially to access or stay in third level education or training. Read more about this grant here to find out if you’re eligible. 

Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme  VTOS is another option for further training. 

Student Universal Support Ireland SUSI grants are available for PLC students 

 

Option 3: Youthreach Programmes 

• Youthreach is for young people aged 15 – 21. 

• You can apply to a Youthreach programme provided you meet the eligibility criteria;  

• Access depends on the local ETB (Education and Training Board). 

• Financial supports are limited and vary depending on the ETB, and other criteria. 

 

Option 4: University Access Courses 

• These are QQI Level 6 courses.  

• Some University Access courses are free. 

• These courses are a great way of getting into university.  

• Many universities and colleges across Ireland have access courses, you will need to research which ones offer an access course. 

 

Option 5: Higher Education: Undergraduate courses, Postgraduate Programmes 

You can look up courses here Courses.ie and here Qualifax website 

 

Scholarships: 

University of Sanctuary Scholarships 

• There are two types of scholarship: 1) fees and stipend (finance to support day-to-day costs); 2) fees only. 

• These scholarships are provided by universities for students who are not yet eligible for government funding. It’s important to note that not all universities provide these scholarships.  

• They are available for those with less than three years’ residence, but these are limited in number and very competitive. 

• You do not need to wait for a course offer before applying for a Sanctuary Scholarship but you do need to have already applied for an Undergraduate/Postgraduate course. 

• You have to apply for each scholarship separately. They all have different closing dates and different application processes. 

• Some universities do not grant these scholarships to students who live far away from the campus – check the criteria of each scholarship carefully. 

 

Other financial assistance and supports: 

Back to Education Allowance BTEA: This allowance is for people over 21 who’ve been unemployed and have been receiving a qualifying social welfare payment for at least 3 months for a QQI Level 5/6 course and 9 months for a QQI Level 7/8 course; You must have a Stamp 4 to apply for this. 

Irish Refugee Council Education Fund: this is for students who have little to no financial supports. Contact the IRC Education team to find out more by filling in the form here. 

Society of St.Vincent De Paul SVP Education Grants: this is for students struggling financially to access or stay in third level education or training. Read more about this grant here to find out if you’re eligible. 

Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme  VTOS is another option for further training. 

Student Assistance Fund (SAF) For full and part-time students who experience financial difficulties during your studies; It cannot be used to pay course fees. It can be used to pay for other costs such as rent, childcare, books, medical expenses, travel, utility bills and food;  

You must have a valid residency permission and be eligible for the reduced or free fees under the Free Fees Initiative. SAF is administered by each university. Applications usually open in September/October. 

 

See the section on Further Resources for more information on navigating Further Education&Training, and Higher Education. 

At this point, you are treated the same as Irish citizens regarding education access.   

Option 1: ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) classes and basic literacy.  

• These courses are free.  

• These are provided by Education and Training Boards (ETBs), libraries and some charities, check out these links for more information: NALA; ETB; Courses.ie 

 

Option 2: FET (Further Education & Training), QQI Level 1 – 6  

• There are little to no fees for you at this point, check with the college/institution. 

• The best thing you can do is meet with an Adult Education Guidance Counsellor, find one near you. This is a free service, open to everyone. A Guidance Counsellor will help you find and apply for a course. 

• You can look up courses here  and here. It is advisable to contact the college. 

 

Financial assistance and supports for this option: 

Back to Education Allowance BTEA: This allowance is for people over 21 who’ve been unemployed and have been receiving a qualifying social welfare payment for at least 3 months for a QQI Level 5/6 course and 9 months for a QQI Level 7/8 course; You must have a Stamp 4 to apply for this. 

Society of St.Vincent De Paul SVP Education Grants: this is for students struggling financially to access or stay in third level education or training. Read more about this grant here to find out if you’re eligible. 

Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme  VTOS is another option for further training. 

Student Universal Support Ireland SUSI grants are available for post-leaving certificate students. 

 

Option 3: Youthreach Programmes 

• Youthreach is for young people aged 15 – 21. 

• You can apply to a Youthreach programme provided you meet the eligibility criteria;  

• Access depends on the local ETB ETB (Education and Training Board). 

• Financial supports are limited and vary depending on the ETB, and other criteria. 

 

Option 4: Higher Education: Undergraduate courses, Postgraduate Programmes 

At this stage, you should qualify for a lower rate of tuition fees, either EU fees and/or Free Fees. You can read more here. 

You can look up courses here Courses.ie and here Qualifax website 

Financial support and supports for this option: 

Student Universal Support Ireland (SUSI)  

• You can apply for state-funded grants, if you meet the residency requirement of three of the past five years in the state and other eligibility criteria, such as the type of immigration status or leave to remain permission you hold, listed here. 

• You can try their Eligibility Indicator to see if you are eligible for a SUSI grant and what kind of support you can expect. 

• Residency and eligibility criteria can be complex. It’s advisable for to consult with SUSI or relevant support organisations to assess your specific circumstances. 

• Important to note: if you have a Stamp 4 from the International Protection strand of the Regularisation Scheme (2022), unfortunately you are not eligible for SUSI. You might be eligible for the International Protection Student Scheme, see below under Other Financial Assistance and Support 

 

Scholarships: 

University of Sanctuary Scholarships 

• As you have a Stamp 4 and 3 years residency, it is highly unlikely you will qualify for a Sanctuary Scholarship.  

• If you apply for one of these scholarships, you will be informed that you should apply for a SUSI grant.  

• If you are not eligible for a SUSI grant, you may be able to get a sanctuary scholarship. 

• Students should not wait for a course offer before applying for a Sanctuary Scholarship. 

 

Other Financial Assistance and Support 

Back to Education Allowance BTEA: This allowance is for people over 21 who’ve been unemployed and have been receiving a qualifying social welfare payment for at least 3 months for a PLC course and 9 months for a Level 7/8 course; You must have a Stamp 4 to apply for this. 

Irish Refugee Council Education Fund: this is for students who have little to no financial supports. Contact the IRC Education team to find out more by filling in the form here. 

 

Society of St.Vincent De Paul SVP Education Grants: this is for students struggling financially to access or stay in third level education or training. Read more about this grant here to find out if you’re eligible. 

Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme  VTOS is another option for further training. 

 

Student Assistance Fund (SAF) For full and part-time students who experience financial difficulties during your studies; It cannot be used to pay course fees. It can be used to pay for other costs such as rent, childcare, books, medical expenses, travel, utility bills and food;  

You must have a valid residency permission and be eligible for the reduced or free fees under the Free Fees Initiative. SAF is administered by each university. Applications usually open in September/October. 

 

International Protection Student Scheme provides financial assistance to eligible students pursuing higher education.  

• If you have a Stamp 4 from the International Protection strand of the Regularisation Scheme (2022), and you chose to keep your international protection open at the time, you can apply.    

• You will need to meet residency and academic criteria to apply. 

• Eligibility criteria include: Must be resident in Ireland for at least three years as of 31st August of the year of application; Must be progressing to higher education for the first time; Must meet the specified income threshold. 

• Residency and eligibility criteria can be complex. It’s advisable for you to consult relevant support organisations to assess your specific circumstances.   

 

Uversity 

• For students over 23;  

• Must have been resident 3 of the last 5 years;  

• First time to apply for a Bachelor’s degree;  

• Hold a residency status listed here 

 

1916 Bursary 

• This is a bursary for under-represented communities in Further and Higher education; 

• You must have been resident 3 of the past 5 years; 

• Hold a recognised residency status.  

 

If you still have your Labour Market Access Permission, you can still access courses. However, bear in mind, you may face challenges with financial support and eligibility criteria due to your immigration status.  

Option 1: ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) classes and basic literacy.  

• These courses are free.  

• These are provided by Education and Training Boards (ETBs), libraries and some charities, check out these links for more information: NALA; ETB; Courses.ie 

 

Option 2: FET (Further Education & Training), QQI Level 1 – 6  

• These courses will have a fee, and that will depend on your nationality and how long you’re in the country. 

• In general, to access a Level 5 – 6 QQI course, you will need your Labour Market Access Permission (LMAP). 

• The best thing you can do is meet with an Adult Education Guidance Counsellor, find one near you. This is a free service, open to everyone. A Guidance Counsellor will help you find and apply for a course. 

• If you do not have a LMAP, it will be harder to get accepted onto a Level 5/6 course; however, you may still be able to do a part-time Level 5 course.  

• You will need to research which colleges will accept an application from you 

• You can look up courses here  and here. It is advisable to contact the college. 

• There’s no guarantee that you’ll get a place, but you can apply. You will need a PPSN and proof of address to apply. 

 

Financial assistance and support for this option: 

Irish Refugee Council Education Fund: this is for students who have little to no financial supports. Contact the IRC Education team to find out more by filling in the form here. 

Society of St.Vincent De Paul SVP Education Grants: this is for students struggling financially to access or stay in third level education or training. Read more about this grant here to find out if you’re eligible. 

 

Option 3: Youthreach Programmes 

• Youthreach is for young people aged 15 – 21. 

• You can apply to a Youthreach programme provided you meet the eligibility criteria;  

• Access depends on the local ETB (Education and Training Board). 

• Financial supports are limited and vary depending on the ETB, and other criteria. 

 

Option 4: Higher Education: Undergraduate courses, Postgraduate Programmes 

• You can apply for undergraduate and postgraduate programmes; however, due to your length of time in the country and immigration status, you might face barriers accessing financial support.  

• You can look up courses here Courses.ie and here Qualifax website 

 

Other financial assistance and supports 

It’s limited here due to your immigration status.  

However, if you are appealing a final negative decision and have not been issued with a Deportation Order, you are entitled to apply for International Protection Student Scheme (IPSS), there’s no guarantee that you’ll get it, but you can apply.  

IPSS provides financial assistance to eligible students pursuing higher education.  

Eligibility criteria include: 

• Must have applied for international protection at least three years before the course commencement; 

• Must be resident in Ireland for at least three years as of 31st August of the year of application; Must be progressing to higher education for the first time; 

• Must meet the specified income threshold. 

• Residency and eligibility criteria can be complex. It’s advisable for you to consult relevant support organisations to assess your specific circumstances.   

 

For information regarding a Labour Market Access Permission (LMAP), see the section on Employment.  

See the section on Further Resources for more information on navigating Further Education&Training, and Higher Education. 

 

 

At this point, generally you do not have entitlements to state-funded further or higher education. 

• Your immigration status may prohibit you from enrolling in public education programmes, unless you can pay international student fees, which are usually extremely high. 

• It is strongly advised to get advice here, as a lot can depend on your individual case or circumstances or where you live in the country.  

This doesn’t necessarily mean that the pathway to education is completely closed, but in cases like this, linking in with The Irish Refugee Council’s Education team is the best course of action. You can fill in this form here or email education@irishrefugeecouncil.ie  

Chat with a Youth Information Worker today and they will support you. 

To get a job you need to have a permission to work in Ireland and a valid PPS number, which you will give to your employer.  

If you already have a positive outcome from your application for international protection, then you have the right to work.  

If you are still in the international protection system, the rules are different. See the different scenarios below which explains this further.  

 

Scenario 1: I applied for international protection less than 6 months ago 

You do not have the right to work in Ireland in the first 6 months after you apply for international protection. You can, however, make an application for a Labour Market Access Permission (LMAP) 5 months after you applied for international protection. 

Applications for Labour Market Access Permission are now made online. 

Once you receive your Labour Market Access Permission (LMAP) you can then begin to look for employment. Employers will usually look for this letter, a valid (in-date) Temporary Residence Certificate (TRC, also known as a Blue Card) and for your Personal Public Service (PPS) number. 

 

Scenario 2: I applied for International Protection more than 6 months ago 

If you have made an application for international protection more than 6 months ago and you have not received a negative answer to your application, then you can apply for a Labour Market Access Permission (LMAP). 

If you have applied for International Protection more than 6 months ago and you have received a negative decision on your application before you had a chance to apply for a Labour Market Access Permission then unfortunately, you do not have the right to work in Ireland, even if you are appealing that decision. 

While many people call them work permits, the correct name for your type of work permit is a Labour Market Access Permission (LMAP).  

You can apply for this permission to work after 5 months from the date on your Temporary Residence Certificate (TRC, also known as a Blue Card).  

However, you do not have the right to work until 6 months have passed after this date and until you have received your labour market access permission letter.  

Step 1: Register your details in the INIS online portal (Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service) 

Step 2: Once you’ve registered for the INIS portal, you can make an online application for your labour market access permission. You will be required to provide your personal information, including your person ID number. Your person ID number can be found on your Temporary Residence Certificate.
 

Required Documents 

You will also be required to confirm that you are cooperating with the International Protection Process, including confirming that you have taken steps to establish your identity. If you have submitted identity documents to the International Protection Office, IPO, you should include a digital copy of those documents in your application.  

If you were unable to provide identity documents to the IPO, you can submit a copy of a short note outlining the reasons why you did not submit identity documents, for example because they were not available.  

Step 3: Once submitted you can check on the status of your application by logging back into the portal. 

Step 4: You will receive an email once your Labour Market Access Permission is granted.  

Step 5: Your Labour Market Access Permission will also be sent to you by post to make it easier for you to give to your employer once you get a job.  

Make sure your address is up to date when you apply. The letter you receive will include your name, address and photograph of you. This is for you to give to future employers.  

Sometimes there can be delays in getting a labour market access permission. And this can be very frustrating.  

However, if you do find a job in the meantime, your employer can email, LMAUApplications@justice.ie and department officials may be able to confirm to your employer that you have the right to work even if your letter hasn’t arrived yet. 

There is no need to tell any potential employer that you are an international protection applicant if you don’t wish to. If they ask you if you have permission to work you should of course tell them that you do.   

If you get the job, your employer does need to submit form called a LMA5 form. You can access that form by clicking here.  

As a worker, it’s important to know that you do have rights and there are protections in place if you are treated badly at work. If something happens at work, or an employer treats you badly, for example discriminates you based on the knowledge that you are an international protection applicant, there are organisations that can help you.   

The Migrant Rights Centre Ireland (MRCI) supports workers who might be experiencing issues at work, like not getting paid properly, working very long hours, or discrimination. They can also support workers with making a complaint about an employer, at the WRC (Workplace Relations Commission), see below. Contact a caseworker here.  

The Workplace Relations Commission has information on what you need to know as a worker. 

Local Intreo Centres or social welfare branch offices in your area should be able to advise you of the supports they can provide you to help you find a job. You can use these services, if you have a Personal Public Services (PPS) number (unique number to you) and a Labour Market Access Permission.  

If you do not have a Labour Market Access Permission, you may not be granted access to these services. However, you could ask them for guidance on what other supports might be available in your local community through for example, local development companies.  

 

Applying for Work Permits:  

• https://www.irishimmigration.ie/my-situation-has-changed-since-i-arrived-in-ireland/labour-market-access-permission/#:~:text=Wait%205%20months%20after%20you,valid%20and%20in%20date%20TRC 

 

Your rights as a young worker: 

• As of January 1st, 2025, the minimum wage in Ireland is €13.50 per hour, this is for anyone working in Ireland, it doesn’t matter what your immigration/residency status or nationality is, you must be paid the minimum wage. Employers can pay you more than the national minimum wage if they want to, but they are not required by law to do so. 

• You can read about your rights and important information on the Citizens Information* website 

https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/employment/starting-work-and-changing-job/young-people-at-work/rights-of-young-workers/ 

*Citizens Information is an incredible resource for anyone living in Ireland, no matter your immigration/residency status or nationality – the name is just a bit confusing! 

 

Information about looking for jobs: 

• Finding a job 

• Home – JobsIreland.ie 

Most people who move on from International Protection Accommodation (IPAS) move into rented accommodation. Finding somewhere to rent can be hard, but it’s not impossible. If you are looking for rental accommodation, here are a few things to think about: 

1. Lots of accommodation in Ireland is never advertised online because tenants who are leaving recommend friends to their landlord. Make sure your friends and anyone you know, knows you are looking for somewhere to live and ask all your local contacts to let you know if they hear of anywhere to rent. 
2. Local estate agents often manage some local rental properties. You can register with a local estate agent, and they might let you know when something comes up. They are contacted by a lot of people, so make sure they know about you and why you would be a great tenant. 
3. Join local area Facebook groups and watch out for rentals that are coming up, or you can post a request in groups and online saying what you are looking for.  
4. Beware of scammers! And never pay any money for accommodation you haven’t seen! 

See below some websites you can use to check for accommodation listings:

• www.daft.ie 

• www.rent.ie 

• www.myhome.ie 

Other useful information when renting in Ireland: 

• Under Irish law, a landlord must be registered with the Residential Tenancies Board. You can check if they’re registered here. You can read a lot on this website about your rights and responsibilities as a tenant and the same for the the landlord. 

• If you encounter any problems with your tenancy, you can contact Threshold for free and impartial advice. 

• Consider joining Community Action Tenants Union CATU, a grassroots organisation campaigning and advocating for better standards of living and supporting tenants with their rights.  

 

You can apply for government help to pay your rent if your income is below a certain level, depending on your circumstances.  

The Irish Refugee Council has a good section on their website that explains about housing supports called Social Housing Support 

People in the International Protection Accommodation System can receive different types of letters about leaving the accommodation.    

It’s important you read your letter carefully and understand which scenario relates to your situation.  

 

Scenario 1: You get a letter from IPAS saying that because you are no longer an international protection applicant, you must leave your accommodation. 

If you have had a successful application for international protection or if you have received a deportation order, you might get a letter from IPAS saying they are no longer responsible for providing you with accommodation and that you should look for housing for yourself. These letters usually give you several weeks or months to try to find somewhere new to live.  

Please read the letter carefully. Usually, these letters also have an offer to provide you with alternative accommodation, if you cannot find something yourself. This probably means a transfer to another part of the country often very far from where you are living now. This can be very difficult, as you’ve made connections, maybe you’re studying, have a job locally or you like the area you’re living in. However, it’s important that you accept the transfer, if you don’t have access to alternative accommodation – otherwise you could find yourself at risk of homelessness. 

Some letters ask you to reply by email if you wish to activate the transfer. 

It is possible to write to IPAS to ask for an exemption from transfer; however, it’s important to know that it can be very difficult to stop a transfer unless it’s for medical grounds (e.g. Undergoing treatment at a nearby hospital).  

If you are due to sit a state exam like a Junior Cert or Leaving Cert or college exams, it is often possible to delay a transfer.  

If you are writing to IPAS to ask them to cancel or delay your transfer, it’s a good idea to also send them evidence for your reason, like a letter from a doctor, from your college or your school.  

It is important that you do not leave IPAS accommodation if you do not have anywhere to go. Most local authorities are not providing emergency accommodation in this situation because they deem that you have made yourself homeless by not accepting a transfer. This situation can be difficult to resolve. 

 

Scenario 2: You get a letter from IPAS saying you have to leave your current accommodation centre because of a conflict or some other circumstances. 

If you receive a letter from IPAS asking you to leave your accommodation, it is important to reply to IPAS if you are still in need of accommodation. 

IPAS may decide to permanently remove you from their accommodation system on the basis of a breach of House Rules. The IPAS House Rules can be found here. 

Note that the most up to date House Rules have not been translated.  

If you have been permanently removed from your accommodation, it is important to know that you have 10 days to ask IPAS to review their decision. This is a strict deadline. If you require assistance with this, you could seek the assistance of the Irish Refugee Council.  

If you wish to seek a review of their decision, you should write outlining your case, asking IPAS to reconsider your situation and ask for their help to resolve the situation with your centre manager. Be sure to mention any reasons you have for needing to stay in the area, like courses you are attending, work you have or exams you are sitting. It can be difficult to have these decisions reversed particularly if the relationship with your International Protection centre manager has broken down. 

If IPAS affirm the decision, you have a right of appeal. It is recommended you consult with the Irish Refugee Council at this stage.  

If you feel you cannot stay at the centre, it is still important to write to IPAS telling them that you are still in need of accommodation when you leave this centre.  

It’s important you follow up on this so as not to find yourself homeless.  

People in the International Protection Accommodation System can receive different types of letters about leaving the accommodation.    

It’s important you read your letter carefully and understand which scenario relates to your situation.  

You can look up your Local Authority Integration Team (LAIT), for support in your local area. They will help you to build connections locally and they offer advice on a wide variety of issues. Find your local LAIT worker here.  

If you’d like to attend a youth service or project, chat with a Youth Information Worker about the opportunities in your area.  

You can go to your nearest library to look up what they offer in terms of reading material, classes, events, and space to study. These are great places to study if you’re in education.  

If you need advice around education, accommodation, work, mental health and wellbeing, contact the Youth Information online chat service for support and guidance.  

For the most up-to-date information in this scenario, it’s best to check the Irish Refugee Council’s online information. You can access this by clicking here: Information for Homeless International Protection Applicants.  

You will also find information here on how to re-enter IPAS accommodation, if you become homeless while you still have an active application for international Protection. 

Please note that since December 2023, the Irish government has not been offering accommodation to most men over the age of 18 who arrive without families to claim international protection in Ireland. Instead, men are added to a waiting list.

Aftercare is a range of services and supports available for a young person who has spent time in the care of the state.  

Aftercare is co-ordinated by Tusla, and there’s a dedicated webpage where you can read all about aftercare.  

The first thing to understand is that accessing aftercare services and supports is optional. It is your choice to access aftercare and if you do, it’s important that you engage with the process.  

Your social worker will start preparing you to leave care when you are 16/17, so you are ready to live as independently as possible when you turn 18.  

You will be assigned an aftercare worker, and they will work with you to develop an aftercare plan that’s based on your needs and level of capability.  

An aftercare worker will help and advocate for you or help you with filling in forms where needed, on areas such as education, housing, and social welfare.  

Aftercare stays in place until you turn 21, or 23 if you’ve continued with education.  

You can read the step-by-step process to access aftercare here  

Yes, Aftercare supports and services are available for young people who arrived as unaccompanied minors or separated children seeking International Protection.  

The level of supports and services you will receive depend on your circumstances, for example how long you lived in care as an unaccompanied minor or if you’ve been granted your residency status.  

There’s a range of services available: Aftercare worker, Aftercare plan, Financial assistance, drop-in clinics. You can read more about these services here.  

It would be a good idea to familiarise yourself with how the Education system works in Ireland, and a great place to start is the Education Programme – Irish Refugee Council. They have an incredible resource on their website, which goes through all the different stages. Keep an eye out for webinars on access to third level education by signing up to their mailing list.

• Understanding the Education system
• Getting started with need to information
• Further Education and Training
• Higher Education
• Map of Ireland including colleges/universities, adult education guidance near you
• What about college fees?
• What State/Government funding is available?

A great start place to start is understanding about your Labour Market Access Permission – the Irish Refugee Council has a really helpful video and section on their website covering this section. Also you can learn about their Employment Programme.

As a worker, it’s really important to know and understand your rights  – from minimum wage, break times, working hours, holiday pay, working conditions and more. There is lots of information on the Citizens Information_Employment section on their website. (Citizens Information is an incredible resource for anyone living in Ireland, no matter your immigration/residency status or nationality – the name is just a bit confusing!). 

And remember, as a worker your basic rights in terms of pay, hours, conditions are the same protected under Irish law. If you’re being mistreated or experiencing any difficulties in the workplace, talk to a caseworker at the Migrant Rights Centre Ireland, they can help you. They also have some relevant questions for you in their section on Employment.

Information on the Irish government website about applying for your Labour Market Access Permission.

• If you’re experiencing homelessness as an international protection applicant, read this section on the Irish Refugee Council website, they have an extensive section on their website, which provides a lot of information that you need to be aware or if you need help.
• If you’ve already got your papers/residency status and are looking for information about support, read this section on Social Housing Support. 
• If you’re renting, make sure you know your rights as a tenant and the responsibilities of your landlord. The Residential Tenancies Board has information on this. You can also check here if your landlord is registered – they are required by law to be registered.
• If you encounter any problems with your tenancy, you can contact Threshold for free and impartial advice. 
• Consider joining Community Action Tenants Union CATU, a grassroots organisation campaigning and advocating for better standards of living and supporting tenants with their rights.  

• It can be very confusing to understand all the different stages of the international protection process. Information is power, so you know what to expect and can plan accordingly if something happens along the way.
• The Irish Refugee Council has super helpful videos and clear step-by-step information for all you need to know about the international protection process.
• This section looks at the different types of permission you may be granted, if your application is successful.
• If you need legal support at some stage, you can read about Legal Aid for international protection applicants here.
• The Information Hub at the Irish Refugee Council has extensive information about all aspects of the international protection system and also your rights as an applicant or someone who’s been granted status or permission to remain. Explore it here.