Ireland weighs tougher citizenship, migration rules as UK tightens asylum system

LONDON

Ireland’s government is considering a series of stricter immigration measures in response to the UK’s newly announced overhaul of its asylum system, amid concerns that tougher British rules could push more people to seek protection across the Irish border.

According to a report by the Irish Times, senior figures in Dublin say a firmer UK stance risks diverting asylum seekers to Ireland through the common travel area.

The report said coalition leaders were briefed on Monday on proposals already under development, including a plan to extend the residency period required before refugees can apply for Irish citizenship.

The current three-year pathway for people with refugee status may be increased to the standard five-year requirement.

Ministers are also examining tighter rules on family reunification for both international protection holders and migrants from outside the European Economic Area.

These reforms could include higher income thresholds and a requirement that applicants be fully self-sufficient, with no outstanding accommodation costs.

In addition, application fees for naturalization may rise, with a formal proposal expected to reach the Cabinet shortly.

The review follows UK Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood’s publication of new asylum policies on Monday.

Under the new reforms, newly arrived asylum seekers will no longer gain an automatic indefinite right to remain, and existing cases will be reassessed after two and a half years. Individuals could be returned to their home countries if conditions there are deemed safe.

Ireland’s Minister for Justice, Jim O’Callaghan, said he is examining the UK changes and is “committed to ensuring that Ireland is not viewed more favorably than the UK” by prospective asylum seekers.

Any necessary adjustments, he added, can be incorporated into forthcoming Irish legislation on international protection.

Irish Foreign Minister Simon Harris stressed that the common travel area “was never intended” to facilitate movement for asylum seekers, signaling that further Irish measures may follow.