Ireland to Curb English-Language Student Visas Amid Concerns They Are a ‘Back Door’ to Work Permits
Dublin III Failings: Just 2 % of Asylum Applicants Ordered to Transfer Are Actually Sent to Other EU States
Aer Lingus Adds Seven New European Routes From Dublin and Cork, Boosting Summer 2026 Connectivity
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Air-traffic-controller shortages threaten summer schedules at Dublin and Cork airports
IATCA warned on 15 February that controller shortages may force flight cancellations this summer. Recent staffing gaps have already limited runway movements at Dublin and closed Cork overnight. The government has called for urgent talks, while companies are urged to build extra buffer time into travel itineraries.
Department of Justice data show 63,000 Irish visa refusals over two years
FOI figures released 15 February show nearly 63,000 Irish visa refusals in 2024-25, with huge variation between source countries. Authorities cite forged or incomplete financial documents, urging officers to “trust instincts”. Multinationals are advised to tighten document checks to avoid costly refusals that can complicate future travel.
Government launches TrustEd accreditation with spot checks on language schools to curb student-visa abuse
From 15 February, English-language schools must secure new ‘TrustEd’ accreditation—backed by surprise immigration inspections—if they wish to sponsor non-EU student visas. Employers should confirm a college’s status before hiring student-visa holders, as those linked to non-accredited schools risk losing work permission.
EU Entry/Exit System and ETIAS: what Irish-based travellers need to know before 2026 roll-out
An explainer published 15 February clarifies how the EU’s forthcoming Entry/Exit System and €20 ETIAS visa-waiver will work. While Ireland is outside Schengen, non-EU and UK staff based in Irish operations will need ETIAS authorisation and EES biometric enrolment before travelling to continental Europe from 2026, creating new lead-time and budget considerations.