Ireland has rejected more Palestinian visa applications than it approved for the first time in ten years, with refusal rates now exceeding 50 percent, according to Irish media reports.
Government figures cited by The Ditch showed that 63 percent of Palestinians applying for short-term visas were refused. The refusal rate has increased significantly since 2023, rising to roughly four times its previous level.
The situation is also affecting applicants seeking to remain in Ireland for longer periods. More than half of Palestinian applicants for long-term visas are now being rejected, compared with only 9 percent in the previous year.
The report, which also referenced the University Times, highlighted a substantial increase in the number of Palestinian students whose applications for study visas have been denied.
At the same time, Israeli citizens continue to benefit from visa-free entry to Ireland, according to the report.
NEWS DESK
PRESS UPDATE