A complete set of identification documents is required to verify the applicant’s identity and immigration history.

Passport Copies

✔️ Full-colour copy of the applicant’s current passport (all pages).
✔️ Full-colour copies of all pages of previous passports (if available).
✔️ Full-colour copies of passports for spouse and children (if applicable).

Sponsorship Documents

The applicant’s religious institution or organisation must provide supporting documents confirming the necessity of the applicant’s role.

Letter of Sponsorship (On Official Letterhead)

The sponsorship letter must include:
✔️ Applicant’s intended role in Ireland.
✔️ Verifiable need for the applicant.
✔️ Confirmation of the applicant’s clean police record.
✔️ Confirmation of child protection policies aligned with the Children First Guidance (Section 9 iv of the policy document).
✔️ Verification that the applicant is qualified for the role.
✔️ Location of the dedicated premises.
✔️ Number of current serving Ministers and congregation size.
✔️ Explanation of how the sponsor intends to support the applicant in Ireland.

Note: The applicant must be financially supported by the sponsoring organisation within Ireland. Financial support from outside Ireland will not be accepted under this scheme.

Financial Documents

Applicants and sponsors must demonstrate financial stability to support the applicant’s stay in Ireland.

✔️ Six-month bank statement from the applicant or sponsor, meeting the following conditions:

• Must be on official bank letterhead (Internet statements must be certified by the bank).
• Must display the applicant’s/sponsor’s name and address.
• Must show the bank account number and type (e.g., checking, savings).
• Must show transactions over the last six months.

✔️ Six-month bank statement from the sponsor.
✔️ Audited accounts of the sponsor (available upon request by immigration authorities).

Supporting Documents

Additional documents are required to establish the applicant’s qualifications and background.

✔️ Marriage certificate (if applicable).
✔️ Children’s birth certificates (if applicable).
✔️ Evidence of educational qualifications.
✔️ Ordination certificate or other proof of meeting Paragraph 4.1 of the Policy Document.
✔️ Proof of at least three years’ experience as a Minister of Religion.

Police Clearance & Garda Vetting

Applicants must demonstrate a clear criminal record and compliance with child protection laws.

✔️ Police Clearance Certificate (no older than three months), including a criminal records check from:

• The applicant’s current country of residence.
• Any country the applicant has resided in during the last three years.

✔️ Garda Vetting Confirmation if the applicant will be working with children or vulnerable adults.

✔️ If Garda Vetting is not submitted, the sponsorship letter must contain a written undertaking stating that the applicant will not work with children or vulnerable adults.

Additional Required Documents

✔️ Proof of medical/travel insurance for the applicant and accompanying family members, covering the required amounts.
✔️ Documentation of previous visa refusals, deportations, or forced departures, if applicable.
✔️ Certified translations of any documents not in English or Irish, including:

• Confirmation that the translation is accurate.
• Date of translation.
• Translator’s full name, signature, and contact details.

This structured documentation ensures that applicants meet the necessary immigration criteria for Ireland. Let me know if you need any refinements!