Domestic violence is not limited to physical abuse. It also includes emotional, psychological, and financial abuse, such as:

• Threats to revoke immigration status
• Coercive control and intimidation
• Physical harm or injuries

Victims should not fear deportation and are encouraged to seek help and apply for independent immigration permission.

How to Apply for Independent Residency

Applications must be submitted in writing to:

General Immigration Section, Immigration Service Delivery, Burgh Quay, Dublin 2.

Supporting Documentation

Applicants should provide as much evidence as possible to support their case. Examples of acceptable documentation include:

1. Legal and Law Enforcement Documents

• Court orders (barring order, protection order, safety order)
• Garda reports documenting incidents of abuse

2. Medical and Psychological Reports

• Medical reports showing injuries or emotional distress

3. Support Organisation Evidence

• Letters from domestic violence support organisations
• Correspondence from the HSE

4. Other Supporting Documents

• Any additional evidence that demonstrates experiences of domestic violence

Each case is assessed individually by the Minister for Justice & Equality.

Immigration Status After Approval

• Successful applicants will receive independent residency permission under the same conditions as before (e.g., Stamp 3, Stamp 4, or Stamp 1G).
• If the applicant originally had Stamp 3 (which does not allow work), they may apply to switch to a work-permitting status if they can demonstrate the need to work.

Retention of Residence Card for EU Treaty Rights Applicants

Family members of EU nationals may retain their residence card after divorce or annulment if they have been victims of domestic violence.

However, the divorce must be initiated before the EU citizen sponsor leaves Ireland to qualify under this provision.