Patrick Costello (Dublin South Central, Green Party)
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339. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality for an update in relation to efforts to regularise the migration situation between Ireland and Georgia, particularly through the provision of visa waivers or work-related visas; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23954/24]

Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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Georgian nationals, like all non-European Economic Area (EEA) nationals, require permission in order to travel to and reside in Ireland on a long term basis i.e. over 90 days. There are a wide range of immigration schemes that are available to Georgian nationals including to reside for the purposes of study or employment. In the latter regard, a number of different employment permit options existing including Critical Skills Permits and General Employment Permits. As the Deputy is aware, the administration of work permit schemes, and policy with respect to their parameters, are matters for the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment.

In addition, Georgian may also apply for visas for shorter terms stays, such as for visiting family members, holidays or to pursue legitimate short term (less than 90 day) business interests or conference/events.

The typical processing time for visa decisions from Georgia is 4 to 6 weeks which is in line with processing times for other visa required nationals.

The central concern in deciding on visa applications, as with all visa services worldwide, is to strike an appropriate balance between protecting the country's vital national interests by maintaining an effective immigration regime while at the same time facilitating travel for those who meet the criteria. Each visa application is therefore decided on its own merits taking all factors into account.