Preparations are under way for the processing of undocumented Filipinos in Ireland that would enable them to avail of the European country’s “regularization scheme” later this year.
In its Advisory 75, Series of 2021, the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) reported the preparations are being organized by the Migrant Rights Center Ireland (MRCI).
POEA Administrator Bernard P. Olalia said the MRCI is now coordinating with Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) and the Philippine Embassy in London to ensure undocumented Filipino migrants in Ireland would be able to renew their passports in advance.
A passport is expected to be among the requirements in the anticipated regularization scheme, which is expected to be implemented by the Irish government by the end of 2021.
“The undocumented workers will only be given approximately six months from the scheme’s rollout for the submission of their application,” Olalia said.
He noted those who are expected to qualify for the regularization are Filipinos who have been staying in Ireland for four years, or three years in the case of children who managed to enter without any valid immigration status.
The applicants will be assessed based on their character and conduct by the Irish government.
“Applicants who will meet the eligibility requirements will be granted immigration permission and access to the labor market, including the opportunity to pursue citizenship by way of naturalization,” Olalia said.
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