New on Citizens Information 10-07-2023

Since 3 July 2023, parts of the Work Life Balance (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2023 are now in effect:

• Breastfeeding breaks have increased from 6 months to 2 years
• If you are a carer or a parent of a child who needs serious medical care, you have the right to 5 days unpaid medical leave
• If you are a transgender man who has given birth, you have the right to take maternity leave

You can now apply for the new Enhanced Concrete Blocks Grant Scheme, if your home is in Clare, Donegal, Limerick or Mayo and has been affected by mica or pyrite.

Since 28 June 2023, the Westport local electoral area is a Rent Pressure Zone.

If you are a non-EEA student coming to Ireland to study, you must have evidence to show you can fund your stay in Ireland. If you are applying for a student visa, you must show that you have access to €10,000 when you arrive in Ireland. If you are planning to study for up to 6 months, you must have €700 per month or €4,200 (whichever is lesser).

Since 1 July 2023, EU Digital COVID Certificates (DCCs) are no longer available. The HSE will still give you evidence of your COVID-19 vaccination after you have been vaccinated.

New and recently edited

New pages:

• Unpaid leave for medical care

These pages have been reviewed and improved:

• Work breaks and rest periods
• Employment laws in Ireland
• Employers’ obligations in Ireland
• Employees’ rights and entitlements
• Leave for parents
• Becoming a parent
• Other types of leave from work
• Benefits and entitlements relating to birth and children
• Testing for COVID-19
• Travelling to Ireland during COVID-19
• Public Services Card
• GP visit cards for children
• Types of employment permits
• Speech and language therapy
• Owning and operating drones in Ireland