Two very different systems are currently in place to assist people arriving in Ireland and Northern Ireland from Ukraine.

North

Ukrainian refugees require a visa to enter the UK. If you have arrived in Northern Ireland from Ukraine, under either the Family Scheme or Homes for Ukraine Scheme, you should go to an assistance centre which can provide advice on key services including health assessments, education, jobs, benefits, housing and immigration.

Further Information:

• NI Direct – Support for Ukraine 
• Law Centre NI – Immigration Advice
• Advice NI – Information Briefing

South

The European Union has put in place a Temporary Protection Directive to allow Ukrainian citizens and others fleeing Ukraine to move through the EU as EU citizens.

Further information:

• Gov.ie – Ireland’s response to the situation in Ukraine 
• CitizensInformation.ie – Coming to Ireland from Ukraine
• You can get information and help at a Ukraine Support Centre.
• If you are travelling with family members who are not Ukrainian citizens, they may need a visa to come to Ireland.

Cross-border issues

How should I support a refugee who has arrived in an unscheduled way?

Some people may arrive here [NI] outside of any scheme. This is likely to include those who have entered the Republic of Ireland legally and have permission to remain there and who travel over the border.

Should you come into contact with someone who finds themselves in this situation, you can contact the Law Centre on 028 90 244401. The Law Centre can provide advice and assist the individual in accessing the necessary support to make visa applications.

Further reading: Legal issues for Ukrainians arriving in the UK from Ireland, Freemovement.org.uk  

Page last checked: 13 April 2022