The Temporary Protection Directive is an EU law that was introduced in 2001. The Directive created a special procedure to deal with a ‘mass influx of people in need of international protection. The Directive must be triggered by the EU Commission.

When the Directive is triggered, EU countries can grant immediate protection to people without the need for individual applications for international protection. People who are granted temporary protection get a residence permit for the duration of the protection (a minimum of one year and a maximum of 3 years). They also get access to:

• Employment
• Accommodation
• Social welfare
• Healthcare
• Education for children

The Directive also allows EU countries to transfer people to other member states, with the agreement of the receiving country and the person being transferred.

The Directive was adopted into Irish law by Section 60 of the International Protection Act 2015.

The Directive was triggered for the first time in March 2022 in response to the war in Ukraine.

Abbey Blue Legal LTD has over twenty years of experience helping people immigrate to countries all over the world. Whether you wish to visit, work, study, or do business in Ireland, our specialist team of immigration experts can help you with one-to-one advice, information, and representation when applying for your Irish visa or permit.