The Minister for Justice Helen McEntee (pictured) has announced the immediate lifting of visa requirements between Ukraine and Ireland.

The Statutory Instrument removing the visa requirement for Ukraine nationals as an emergency measure takes immediate effect, and will apply as an emergency measure to all Ukrainians travelling to Ireland.

The Department of Justice said that the move would “streamline and support” the swift exit of both the Ukrainian family members of Irish citizens, and the family members of people from Ukraine who are resident in Ireland.

EU-wide measures

According to the department, those who are considering leaving Ukraine and travelling to Ireland may now do so without a visa, if they judge it safe to travel. Those who travel to Ireland without a visa will then have 90 days after arrival to regularise their position.

“This measure will be kept under review, and the Government will also work with colleagues on any further EU-wide measures that might assist those fleeing Ukraine,” said the minister.

Any Irish citizen requiring emergency consular assistance is being advised to contact the Department of Foreign Affairs at +353-1-6131700.