This guide explains the Irish immigration process for non‑EEA nationals seeking residence in Ireland based on a de facto relationship with an Irish citizen or an eligible non‑EEA national. It reflects current Immigration Service Delivery (ISD) policy and practice while remaining non‑official guidance intended for general informational purposes.
What Is a De Facto Relationship Under Irish Immigration Law
For Irish immigration purposes, a de facto relationship is a genuine, committed and durable partnership akin to marriage or civil partnership, without being legally registered. The relationship must be exclusive, ongoing and entered into freely by both partners.
ISD places significant weight on evidence that the couple have lived together in a shared household on a long‑term basis. Relationships based solely on visits, temporary stays or long‑distance arrangements are not considered sufficient.
Who Can Sponsor a De Facto Partner in Ireland
A de facto partner application may be made where the sponsoring partner is:
an Irish citizen resident in Ireland
a UK citizen resident in Ireland, or
a non‑EEA national lawfully resident in Ireland with an eligible permission, typically Stamp 1, Stamp 4 or Stamp 5.
Sponsors holding Stamp 2 or Stamp 3 permission are not eligible to sponsor a de facto partner. Both partners must intend to reside together permanently in Ireland.
Core Eligibility Requirements for De Facto Partner Permission
Applicants are expected to demonstrate:
a genuine and subsisting relationship
a minimum 2-year period of cohabitation in a relationship akin to marriage
financial self‑sufficiency, without reliance on public funds
private medical insurance covering the non‑EEA partner
good character and compliance with Irish immigration law.
Each application is assessed on its own merits, and failure to meet any requirement may result in refusal.
Evidence Required to Prove a De Facto Relationship
Irish immigration decisions are evidence‑driven. Applications must be supported by clear, consistent and well‑organised documentation covering the full period relied upon.
Evidence of Cohabitation
Cohabitation evidence should demonstrate continuous shared residence. Commonly accepted documents include:
joint tenancy or lease agreements
letters from landlords confirming joint occupancy
utility bills showing both partners’ names or separate bills addressed to each partner at the same address
official correspondence confirming the shared address.
Evidence should be provided for the entire qualifying period claimed and should not contain unexplained gaps.
Relationship History and Development
Applicants are normally required to submit a detailed relationship statement outlining:
how and when the relationship began
how it developed over time
when cohabitation commenced
key shared milestones or commitments.
Supporting evidence may include photographs, travel records, communication logs and other documentation demonstrating an ongoing personal relationship.
Financial Interdependence Evidence
Proof of shared financial responsibility strengthens an application. This may include:
joint bank accounts or savings
evidence of shared household expenses
jointly held assets or long‑term financial commitments.
Sponsor Documentation Requirements
The sponsoring partner must provide evidence of their lawful status and residence in Ireland, typically including:
passport or national identity documentation
current Irish Residence Permit or other immigration permission
proof of address in Ireland
evidence of employment, self‑employment or other lawful income.
Financial Self‑Sufficiency and Medical Insurance
Both partners must demonstrate that they can support themselves without recourse to public funds. This usually involves submitting:
recent bank statements
payslips or income records
confirmation of employment or business activity.
Private medical insurance covering the non‑EEA partner is a standard requirement and should be in place at the time of application.
How to Apply for De Facto Partner Permission
The application route depends on the applicant’s location at the time of applying:
Applicants outside Ireland are generally required to obtain preclearance or an appropriate visa before travelling.
Applicants already lawfully resident in Ireland must apply through Immigration Service Delivery, usually via the online application portal.
Applications must be complete at submission. Incomplete applications are frequently returned without assessment.
Decision Outcomes and Immigration Permission Types
If approved, the immigration permission granted will depend on the sponsor’s status. Permissions are normally time‑limited and renewable, provided the relationship continues and eligibility requirements remain satisfied.
The non‑EEA partner must register the permission and notify immigration authorities of any material change in circumstances, including changes to the relationship or sponsor’s immigration status.
Common Refusal Reasons and Practical Guidance
Applications are commonly refused where:
cohabitation evidence is inconsistent or insufficient
financial documentation does not demonstrate self‑sufficiency
the sponsor does not hold an eligible immigration permission
the relationship history lacks detail or credibility.
Careful preparation and professional presentation of evidence significantly improve the prospects of a successful outcome.
De Facto Partner Application Checklist
The following checklist is a general guide only and may vary depending on individual circumstances:
valid passports for both partners
detailed written relationship history
evidence of cohabitation covering the full qualifying period
relationship evidence such as photographs and travel records
financial interdependence documentation
sponsor’s immigration permission and proof of residence
bank statements and income evidence
private medical insurance for the non‑EEA partner
any additional documents requested by Immigration Service Delivery.
Final Notes
De facto partner applications in Ireland are assessed on a case‑by‑case basis and require substantial documentary evidence. While the legal framework is well‑established, successful outcomes depend on clarity, consistency and compliance with ISD requirements.
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