
Permission to Work as a Minister of Religion
A successful applicant granted permission to work as a Minister of Religion in Ireland is subject to specific conditions. This permission allows them to carry out religious duties while adhering to the immigration requirements set by the authorities.
Conditions of Minister of Religion Permission
A successful applicant can:
- Work as a Minister of Religion with an eligible religious body or faith community, provided that:
- Their role aligns with the criteria for a Minister of Religion as described below.
- The religious body or faith community meets the eligibility criteria outlined below.
- Stay in Ireland for an initial period of 1 year, with the possibility of renewal for up to 3 years.
- Apply for one extension of up to 3 additional years after the initial 3-year period has ended.
- Engage in voluntary work, provided it does not interfere with their primary role as a Minister.
- Study in Ireland, as long as it does not affect their primary duties as a Minister of Religion.
- Bring their family members (spouse/partner and children under 18). The continued residence status of family members will depend on the Minister’s permission. If the Minister of Religion leaves Ireland, their accompanying spouse/partner/children must also depart.
- Travel abroad for short periods (e.g., holidays or attending religious conferences) and return to Ireland.
- Who can apply for Minister of Religion Permission
- The work a successful applicant can do
- Permission to work as a Minister of Religion allows the successful applicant to do the following
- Minister of religion permission does not permit a successful applicant to do the following
- Who can a successful applicant work for?
- Preclearance Approval Letter
- Non-EEA Nationals requiring an Entry Visa
- Documents required for preclearance letter
- Medical Insurance
- Decision and next steps
- An applicant’s family members
- If an applicant’s application is refused
- Appeal of the decision and Judicial Review
- Immigration permission, registration and renewal
- Change to an applicant’s sponsoring organisation