Guide only — this matter needs a solicitor. Under Irish law this work must be carried out by a solicitor, so it is not sold on this site. The information below explains what is involved so you can brief a solicitor with confidence.
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A humanitarian immigration application in Ireland is a submission to the Minister for Justice or Immigration Service Delivery (ISD) setting out exceptional circumstances and asking for permission, or leave, to remain in the State. This solicitor-handled service is for people whose situation is not covered by a standard immigration permission and who need a carefully prepared case explaining why their personal, family or humanitarian circumstances justify leave to remain. Work of this kind is carried out by a solicitor regulated by the Law Society of Ireland. We are not a solicitor’s practice and do not provide it — to instruct a solicitor, use the Law Society of Ireland’s Find a Solicitor directory.
What’s included
- A solicitor-handled humanitarian immigration application — an exceptional circumstances submission to the Minister or ISD seeking leave to remain
- Self-complete template with guidance notes — you fill it in yourself
- Documents tailored to Irish law and your circumstances, delivered by email
- A written summary of the key points and anything you need to do afterwards
Who this is for
- People living in Ireland whose immigration permission has lapsed or does not fit any standard category
- Families where a refusal would have a serious effect on children, a spouse or partner, or a dependent relative
- People with significant medical, personal or compassionate circumstances that they want the Minister to consider
- People with strong ties to Ireland through long residence, work or community involvement
How it works
- Find a solicitor through the Law Society of Ireland’s Find a Solicitor directory and send them the basic details and any existing documents or correspondence.
- Complete a short questionnaire about your circumstances.
- A solicitor would then prepare the humanitarian submission, organising your circumstances and supporting evidence into a clear, structured application.
- The completed work is delivered to you by email, with plain-English notes on what to do next.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a humanitarian immigration application cost in Ireland?
This page is a free guide — nothing on it is for sale. Solicitors set their own fees for this work and must give you a written costs estimate (a section 150 letter) before starting. Get quotes through the Law Society of Ireland’s Find a Solicitor directory.
What counts as exceptional or humanitarian circumstances?
There is no fixed list. Relevant factors can include family ties in Ireland, the interests of children, health, length of residence and personal circumstances. a solicitor would assess which factors apply to you and how best to present them.
Is leave to remain on humanitarian grounds guaranteed?
No. Leave to remain on humanitarian grounds is a matter for the Minister’s discretion and each case is decided on its own facts. A properly prepared application makes sure your circumstances are clearly and fully put forward, but no outcome can be promised.
For more on Irish immigration, visas and citizenship, see our Immigration & Citizenship in Ireland guide.
If you would like to be told when solicitor services are available again on this site, you can join our no-fee waiting list. To instruct a solicitor now, use the Law Society of Ireland’s Find a Solicitor directory.