Ireland is a country with a rich history, a stable economy and an English-speaking environment, which is becoming more and more attractive to Ukrainians. In 2025, thousands of Ukrainian citizens see Ireland as an opportunity to start a new life — the country offers a wide range of options for moving: from temporary protection for refugees to investment programs that open the way to permanent residence and even citizenship. Ireland stands out for its hospitality, because since the beginning of the war in Ukraine, it has actively supported Ukrainians, providing them with housing, social assistance and access to work and education. However, 2025 has brought new challenges and changes that should be considered before moving.
Entering Ireland: what you need to know
In order to legally cross the Irish border, Ukrainians need to prepare a number of documents. The main one is a biometric foreign passport. It is also important to have confirmation of the purpose of the trip: hotel reservation, invitation from relatives or employer. If traveling with children, each child must have their own biometric passport or be entered in the passport of one of their parents.
Although health insurance is not a mandatory requirement, it is desirable to ensure financial security in the event of illness or accident. This is particularly important given the high costs of healthcare in Ireland.
For those who plan to move in their own car, it is necessary to take out international car insurance “Green card”. Without this document, it is impossible to enter the country by car.
Step-by-step instructions for moving
Determining the purpose of the trip
Your purpose determines the type of documents required and the next steps. For example, if you plan to work, you need to obtain an employment permit in advance. If the purpose is to study, a letter of enrollment from an Irish educational institution should be provided.
Visa-free regime for Ukrainians
Ukrainians can enter Ireland without a visa for up to 90 days. At the border, you will be given a stamp that allows you to stay in the country under the visa-free regime.
Registration in the migration service
For a long stay, it is necessary to register with the migration service. In major cities, this is the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB), in other regions, local officers.
For registration you will need:
- Biometric passport.
- Confirmation of the purpose of the stay (for example, an employment contract or a letter from the university).
- Confirmation of housing availability.
- Medical insurance.
- Payment of the residence permit fee.
After registration, you will receive an Irish Residence Permit (IRP), which confirms your status in the country.
Temporary protection for Ukrainians
Ireland provides temporary protection status for Ukrainians who left because of the war. This status is valid until March 4, 2026 and provides access to work, education, medicine and social services. You can apply directly upon arrival at Dublin or Limerick Airport.
Changes in 2025
This year, Ireland implemented several new rules related to refugees. In particular:
- The period of free accommodation in state housing has been shortened.
- Access to high-income housing programs is limited.
- The level of financial assistance for unemployed migrants has been reduced.
It should be noted that Ireland offers an attractive program for investors, which allows you to obtain a residence permit. The minimum contribution is EUR 500,000 for charitable projects or EUR 1 million for business investments.
You can get Irish citizenship after 5 years of residence in the country (with the last year – continuously). Among the requirements are the absence of criminal records, proof of income and taking an oath of allegiance.
Emigration to Ireland in 2025 is a difficult but quite real process for Ukrainians. Compliance with the rules, preparation of documents and understanding the peculiarities of life in a new country are the keys to successful integration. Ireland offers a wide range of opportunities for those looking to start a new life and remains one of the most welcoming destinations for migrants in Europe.
