At Crosscare, our values of Love, Respect and Excellence guide us in all our work. For over 40 years, we have supported refugees, migrant workers and Irish emigrants returning home, alongside our housing, homeless, youth, counselling and food services.
We note with concern the recent changes announced by the Department of Justice to family reunification criteria and the extended residency requirement for refugees applying for Irish citizenship. These changes will impact Irish citizens living abroad who hope to return home with non-EU family members, people recognised as refugees in Ireland, and lower-paid people on work permits, such as carers.
Impact on family unity and integration
The significantly increased income thresholds, accommodation requirements and fees for sponsoring family members will place reunification out of reach for many. Separation from family undermines emotional well-being, slows integration, and limits an individual’s ability to engage fully in work, education, and community life.
Implications for refugees seeking stability
Extending the required residency period for citizenship from three to five years prolongs uncertainty for people rebuilding their lives after conflict or persecution. Citizenship provides security, belonging and the ability to plan long-term. Limiting citizenship to economically active people may deny it to people with disabilities, carers for family members, or people suffering from trauma who are unable to work.
Effects on lower-income workers of employment permits
Many General Employment Permit holders — including carers who play a vital role in supporting Ireland’s ageing population — will struggle to meet the new financial sponsorship criteria. Preventing these workers from living with their families risks isolation, reduces their capacity to settle in the long term, and may ultimately reduce the number of people willing to work in sectors already facing workforce shortages.
Risks for returning Irish citizens
We are particularly concerned about Irish citizens who hope to return home with a non-EU spouse or partner. Some may not meet the financial criteria, leaving families facing the unacceptable prospect of separation or of being unable to return to Ireland.
Crosscare recognises the State’s responsibility to manage migration systems effectively. However, policies must remain humane and supportive of family life. We urge policymakers to ensure that financial requirements do not disproportionately disadvantage refugees, essential workers or returning Irish citizens. A compassionate, balanced approach is critical to building strong, inclusive communities where everyone can contribute and belong.
