To qualify as a sponsor, a religious body or faith community must meet the following requirements:

1. Established Presence in Ireland

• The organisation must already be active and operating in Ireland.

2. Active Membership

• The religious body must have an engaged congregation and full-time serving Ministers of Religion.

3. Dedicated Premises

• The organisation must have a physical place of worship or community space in Ireland.

Role of the Sponsor

An eligible religious body or faith community that invites an applicant is referred to as the applicant’s sponsor.

• A sponsor must be an organisation, not an individual.
• The sponsor is responsible for ensuring the applicant complies with immigration regulations.

Sponsorship Requirements

Before applying, the sponsor must provide a sponsorship letter and supporting documents confirming:

1. Verifiable Need for the Applicant

• The religious body must demonstrate a clear need for the applicant’s role.

2. Applicant’s Suitability

• The applicant must be suitably qualified to perform the duties of the position.

3. Clean Police Record

• The applicant must submit proof of a clear background check.

4. Child Protection Compliance

• The religious body must have child protection policies and procedures in line with the Children First Guidance.

5. Clearance to Work with Vulnerable Groups

• The applicant must provide documentary evidence (not older than 3 months) proving clearance to work with children and vulnerable adults.

6. Financial & Accommodation Support

• The sponsor must ensure that the applicant (and immediate family, if applicable) has sufficient funds and/or accommodation for the duration of their stay.

Compliance with State Authorities

• The sponsor must submit all supporting documents along with the Preclearance application form.
• The sponsor must cooperate with State authorities to ensure the applicant leaves Ireland when their permission expires or if instructed to do so.
• Failure to comply may impact the religious body’s ability to sponsor future applicants.

Application Refusals

An applicant will not be granted permission if:

They do not have sponsorship from an eligible religious body or faith community.
Their sponsor does not meet the eligibility criteria outlined above.