Immigration Newsflash: Online AWS Applications  

What is the change?

The Atypical Working Scheme Unit of the Department of Justice and Equality has introduced a new online platform where the AWS application must now be completed. The Atypical Working Scheme (AWS) permission is a type of Irish work permission that allows non-EEA nationals to work in Ireland for a short term period of between 15-90 days. Prior to this, the hardcopy AWS application form was filed by way of post and the filing fee was paid via electronic funds transfer (EFT). 

Key points:

• Implementation time frame: This change is set to take effect from 03 September 2020. A two week grace period will be provided for emailed or posted applications. From 18 September 2020, payments made by EFT will no longer be accepted.  
• Who is affected: Any non-EEA nationals who wish to undertake work in Ireland for between 15-90 days.
• Next steps: Employers should note that the AWS application has now moved online. Online applications will now be submitted via the online platform. Deloitte can assist with these applications.
  
  

Analysis & Comments:

The AWS short processing times, along with flexibility, has resulted in the permission being utilised by many companies for short term work authorisation in Ireland. We have seen a recent trend by the Department of Justice and Equality to move immigration applications to this online platform.

Deloitte welcomes this change from a paper to an online application form as it should create a streamlined application process. The risk of sending the application and documents by post will now be eliminated which will create a more reliable submission process, as well as a more environmentally friendly one. It will also allow for a significantly more efficient payment method.

The processing times of 20 days are not expected to change.

Employers should also note that requests for the re-issue of a letter of permission that has expired prior to use, due to COVID-19 travel restrictions, should continue to be submitted by email, not the online platform.

Deloitte can support companies and their employees in applying for the Atypical Working Scheme permission. If you have employees or potential new hires who may be impacted by the above changes, please contact the Deloitte immigration team to assist.