If you have any questions about supports for refugees and people seeking protection in Ireland, you can chat online to a trained Youth Information Officer or leave us a message and we can get back to you.
Information Hub for Young People in International Protection.
- Are you a young refugee or in international protection?
- Looking for help with access to education, employment?
- Need help figuring things out?
This resource will guide you in answering questions a young person in international protection may have on a variety of themes, such as education, accommodation, employment, and more.
Supports for refugees and people seeking protection.
The Irish Refugee Council provides many supports including information, advocacy, legal advice etc. Click Here
Legal Help & Asylum Process
- Apply for asylum is made at the International Protection Office (IPO)
- You have the right to a legal advisor. Contact the Irish Refugee Council or the Legal Aid Board
- If your application is refused, you can appeal through the International Protection Appeals Tribunal (IPAT).
Accommodation: Direct Provision
- Most young people live in Direct Provision while waiting for a decision.
- You will get food, shelter, medical care, and access to school.
- If you are under 18 and alone, Tusla (Child and Family Agency) will help you
Healthcare & Mental Health
- You get a free medical card. You can visit a GP (doctor) for free.
- Mental health support is available. Spirasi helps people who have been through trauma or torture.
- Emergency help: call 999 or 112.
Education & Training
- Free English (ESOL) classes are available through ETBs and local groups.
- Primary and secondary school are free in Ireland.
- You can join further education through Education and Training Boards (ETBs)
- Some colleges offer scholarships for refugees and protection applicants.
Social Life & Integration
- Join local clubs, sports, or community centres to meet people and feel at home
- Crosscare Youth Services offer support, social groups and other activities
- LGBTQ+ youth can contact Belong To for a safe and supportive space.
- Libraries are free to use
- Community and Leisure Centre provide physical activities such as swimming, gym and clasess
- Free English (ESOL) classes are available through ETBs and local groups.
Working
- After 6 months of applying for protection, you may be allowed to work. You must apply for permission to work. This is also called applying for Labour Market Access (LMA).
- Refugees can work, study, and access training freely after status is granted
Important Contacts in Dublin
- Irish Refugee Council
- Crosscare Migrant Project
- Legal Aid Board
- Spirasi (trauma support)
If you have any questions about supports for refugees and people seeking protection in Ireland, you can chat online to a trained Youth Information Officer or leave us a message and we can get back to you.