The Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration has now opened applications for the Temporary Protection Transition Scheme (TPTS), providing an alternative immigration pathway for eligible beneficiaries of Temporary Protection who wish to continue living in Ireland beyond the Temporary Protection framework. Applications opened on 30 September 2026 and will remain open until 30 March 2027.
This marks an important development for many Ukrainian nationals who have established their lives in Ireland over the past number of years. Many have entered employment, pursued education, established businesses, and built strong ties within their local communities. The introduction of the TPTS provides greater clarity for those who are now considering their longer-term future in Ireland.
Under the scheme, eligible applicants may be granted a permission on a Stamp 4 basis. This permission allows an individual to live and work in Ireland without the requirement for an employment permit and may provide a pathway towards longer-term residence and citizenship.
Eligibility for the scheme will depend on a number of factors, including an applicant’s residence history in Ireland, employment status, income and accommodation arrangements. Family members may also be eligible to benefit in certain circumstances. As with all immigration applications, careful preparation and supporting documentation will be key.
While the introduction of the scheme will be welcome news for many, immigration circumstances can vary significantly from one person to another. Questions frequently arise regarding eligibility, family members, long-term immigration options, supporting documentation and alternative pathways where an individual may not satisfy the criteria of the scheme.
For this reason, obtaining legal advice at an early stage can be beneficial. Understanding your options before making an application can help identify any potential issues, ensure the correct documentation is provided, and allow you to make informed decisions regarding your long-term future in Ireland.
At Gibson & Associates LLP, our Immigration Law team is assisting Ukrainian nationals in assessing their eligibility under the Temporary Protection Transition Scheme and advising on alternative immigration pathways where appropriate.
If you would like advice regarding your eligibility or immigration options, please contact our office to arrange a consultation.
” The Temporary Protection Transition Scheme provides a welcome pathway for many Ukrainian nationals seeking greater certainty regarding their future in Ireland. However, the scheme will not be suitable for everyone, and those who do not meet the eligibility criteria should seek advice on the alternative immigration pathways that may be available to them” – Kellie McLaughlin, Immigration Solicitor
The pace of change in Irish immigration and citizenship law and policy over the past two years has been considerable.
Against that background, the latest proposed changes to Irish Nationality and Citizenship Acts 1956 (as amended) are particularly significant. The Minister for Justice has secured approval for the priority drafting of the Irish Nationality and Citizenship (Amendment) Bill 2026, with the legislation expected to progress on an accelerated basis.
The proposed reforms include significant changes to statutory criteria for a naturalisation application, including an increase in the general reckonable residence requirement from five years to eight years, together with proposed language and civics requirements and changes relating to financial self-sufficiency.
The Bill has not been drafted yet, so we await publication of the draft. The current statutory criteria for an application for naturalisation as an Irish citizen therefore continue to apply and the usual legislative process will be carried out before any amendments come into force.
The proposed citizenship reforms do not stand alone. They form part of a much wider programme of change to Ireland’s immigration system.
The Non-EEA Family Reunification Policy has been subject to significant review and amendment in the past two years. The Revised Policy Document on Non EEA Family Reunification was published in November 2025 in circumstances where no changes had been made to that policy since 2016. The revised policy maintains routes for immediate family members of Irish citizens and eligible non-EEA residents, but places greater emphasis on financial capacity and introduces stricter limits in relation to certain other family members. The Policy Document was amended again on 12th June 2026 to include further restrictions on capacity to sponsor a family member, for example.
Perhaps the most significant legislative development in the international protection sphere has been the International Protection Act 2026, which commenced on 12 June 2026. The Act gives effect to the EU Migration and Asylum Pact and represents a fundamental restructuring of Ireland’s international protection system, including new screening and registration procedures, enhanced identity and security checks and changes to the processing and appeals framework.
The Government has also introduced further measures affecting people who hold temporary protection in Ireland, including those displaced from Ukraine, as Ireland prepares for the eventual transition from the EU Temporary Protection framework.
Taken together, these developments demonstrate just how quickly Irish immigration law and policy is changing. We are seeing amendments to legislation, revised policies, changing administrative policy and significant shifts in the interpretation and application of immigration policies, often within relatively short periods.
For individuals and families navigating the Irish immigration system, the practical consequences can be considerable. A person who was eligible to make an application under one set of rules may find that the position has changed by the time they apply.
This is particularly important in the context of citizenship. Where an individual is already eligible to apply under the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Acts, delaying an application could potentially mean facing a substantially different set of requirements if the proposed legislation is enacted. Please be advised that the final legislation may be significantly different as the proposals are considered further by our legislators.
The Irish Government has recently secured approval for the priority drafting of the Irish Nationality and Citizenship (Amendment) Bill 2026, signalling what may become one of the most significant reforms to Irish citizenship law in recent years. According to the Government’s announcement on 9 September 2026, the proposed legislation would introduce stricter eligibility requirements for citizenship by naturalisation, including longer residence requirements, language and civics testing, and new self-sufficiency criteria. These changes are intended to strengthen Ireland’s naturalisation framework and align it more closely with systems used across other European countries. [gov.ie]
While the legislation has not yet been enacted and remains subject to the legislative process, the announcement has already generated significant discussion among individuals who may be considering an Irish citizenship application. For many long-term residents of Ireland, the proposed reforms may represent a narrowing of the pathway to citizenship in the future. As a result, those who are currently eligible under the existing rules may wish to consider submitting their applications sooner rather than later.
What Changes Are Being Proposed?
The General Scheme of the Bill includes several notable proposals. Among the most significant is the plan to increase the qualifying period of reckonable residence from five years to eight years for most applicants seeking citizenship through naturalisation. The Government also intends to introduce language proficiency requirements, whereby applicants would need to demonstrate knowledge of English, Irish, or Irish Sign Language. In addition, applicants may be required to complete a civics, society, and politics test designed to assess their understanding of Ireland and its institutions. The proposed legislation would also introduce measures aimed at ensuring applicants are financially self-sufficient. [gov.ie]
If implemented, these requirements would represent a substantial change from the current naturalisation framework. Many individuals who are approaching eligibility under the existing residence rules could face a significantly longer wait if the new legislation becomes law.
Why This Matters for Existing Applicants
Under the current system, many lawful residents may already be eligible to apply for Irish citizenship through naturalisation after meeting the required period of residence and other statutory conditions. However, once legislative changes take effect, future applicants may need to satisfy more extensive requirements before becoming eligible.
Although the Government has not yet confirmed an implementation date, the fact that the Bill has been prioritised for drafting demonstrates a clear intention to progress these reforms. The General Scheme will now move toward pre-legislative scrutiny before making its way through the Oireachtas. [gov.ie]
For individuals who believe they may already qualify under the current rules, delaying an application could carry risks. Errors in residency calculations, gaps in immigration permissions, missing documentation, or misunderstandings regarding eligibility can result in avoidable delays. Seeking legal guidance now may help ensure that an application is prepared and submitted correctly while the current framework remains in place.
The Importance of Professional Representation
Citizenship applications are often more complex than many applicants anticipate. Determining reckonable residence, addressing absences from the State, proving continuous residence, demonstrating good character, and compiling the required supporting documentation can be challenging. Even seemingly minor discrepancies can lead to requests for further information or delays in processing.
At Gibson & Associates LLP, our Immigration Team regularly assists clients with citizenship by naturalisation applications. We provide comprehensive support throughout the process, including assessing eligibility, reviewing immigration history, advising on documentation requirements, preparing applications, and addressing any issues that may arise before submission.
Our team also assists applicants whose circumstances may involve additional complexities, including previous immigration matters, extensive travel histories, family-based applications, or applications involving Irish associations. By seeking advice at an early stage, applicants can gain clarity on their position and take proactive steps to strengthen their application.
A Potential Surge in Applications
Historically, announcements regarding immigration and citizenship reforms often lead to increased demand from individuals seeking to submit applications before new requirements come into force. Given the scale of the proposed changes, many immigration practitioners anticipate a significant increase in citizenship enquiries and applications in the coming months.
This means that individuals who may already be eligible should not assume they have unlimited time to act. Preparing a naturalisation application can require substantial evidence gathering, including proof of residence, identity documentation, immigration records, and supporting materials covering multiple years. Starting this process early can help avoid unnecessary stress and reduce the risk of missing an opportunity to apply under the current rules.
How Gibson & Associates LLP Can Help
If you are considering applying for Irish citizenship through naturalisation, now may be an important time to review your eligibility. Our experienced Immigration Team can assess your circumstances, explain the current requirements, and guide you through every stage of the application process.
While the proposed legislation has not yet become law, the direction of travel is clear. Individuals who may be eligible today may face more requirement in the future. Seeking legal advice now can help you understand your options and ensure you are in the strongest possible position to pursue Irish citizenship before any legislative changes take effect.
If you believe you may qualify for Irish citizenship through naturalisation, contact Gibson & Associates LLP today to arrange a consultation with our Immigration Team and discuss your eligibility under the current rules.
We’re delighted to shine a spotlight on one of our team members as Laura prepares to take the next exciting step in her legal career. This December, she will begin her studies at Blackhall Place in Dublin, marking the start of her professional qualification journey.
In this Q&A, we sit down with her to discuss her path into law, what inspired her to pursue a legal career, and her thoughts ahead of starting at one of Ireland’s leading centres for professional legal education. We’re proud to support the development of emerging legal talent and look forward to following her journey as she continues to grow and succeed within the profession.
Question: Hi Laura! Where did you originally study and why did you get into Law?
I completed my undergraduate degree in Law and Media at Dublin City University (DCU), before going on to complete a Master of Laws (LLM) at DCU. I have always had an interest in law, and my studies at DCU further strengthened that interest.
Question : How long have you been working in Gibson and Associates LLP and when did you decide to move forward with starting at Blackhall?
I joined Gibson & Associates in December 2022. I began sitting the FE1 examinations in October 2023 and successfully completed them in March 2026.
Question: What type of Law are you primarily interested in?
I have always had an interest in human rights law. During my Master’s degree, I chose to write my dissertation on the legal position of women in surrogacy arrangements in Ireland, examining the series of governmental failures that have contributed to the lack of legal protection for intended mothers in such arrangements. This research further developed my interest in the way the law affects individuals and their fundamental rights, which naturally led me to immigration law. I find it particularly rewarding to see the tangible impact that legal protection and representation can have on individuals in vulnerable situations. I look forward to gaining further experience across other areas of law, including Litigation and Property, during my training with Gibson and Associates. This will allow me to develop a broader understanding of different areas of practice and, in turn, determine which area I am most interested in pursuing.
Question: What are you expecting before you start in December? Have you spoken to some of our Solicitors for some advice?
I have been fortunate to receive support from my colleagues, including Kellie and Blaithin, who have recently qualified as Solicitors. They have provided valuable insight into what to expect during the Professional Practice Course (PPC) at the Law Society of Ireland, and their guidance has further reinforced my enthusiasm for taking the next step in my legal career.
Question: How would you describe this process to someone who hasn’t any clue about the process of becoming a Solicitor?
My journey to becoming a Solicitor began with an undergraduate degree in Law and Media at Dublin City University (DCU), followed by a Master of Laws (LLM) at DCU.
The next stage involved completing the eight Final Examination – First Part (FE-1) examinations, which are the entrance examinations to the Law Society of Ireland’s Professional Practice Course (PPC). These intensive examinations cover a broad range of legal subjects and are held twice each year.
Following completion of the eight exams, you must then secure a Training Contract in order to progress to Blackhall to complete the Professional Practice Course (PPC). This is offered in two formats, full time and hybrid. Upon completing the Professional Practice Course (PPC) trainee solicitors are required to complete two years of in-office training. When you have successfully completed your PPC examinations and your in-office training you may apply to have your name entered on the Roll of Solicitors.
Question: Do you think working in the firm, and seeing the work our Solicitor’s do has been a motivation to taking this next step?
Working at Gibson and Associates LLP and witnessing the results achieved by the Solicitors within the firm has further strengthened my interest in law and my understanding of the legal process. Seeing the positive impact that the Solicitors have on their clients continues to motivate me to progress towards qualification.
Question: If you had some advice for past you, what would it be?
If I could give my past self-advice, it would be to learn as much as possible from those around you who have already gone through the process. Much of the learning comes from gaining practical experience, working on matters, and seeing the results achieved through that experience.
Introduction
In April 2026, Booking.com confirmed that unauthorised third parties gained access to certain customer booking information relating to a number of reservations. Customers whose data may have been involved were notified directly by the company.
For individuals who received one of these notifications, questions naturally arise: what exactly occurred, what information was involved, and what rights are available under data protection law? This article provides an overview of the issue and outlines the considerations for affected customers who are already assessing their position.
What Booking.com has confirmed
Booking.com has publicly acknowledged that it detected suspicious activity affecting some customer bookings. Following its investigation, the company advised certain customers that unauthorised third parties may have accessed booking‑related information.
According to Booking.com’s notifications and public statements, the information involved may include personal and reservation details such as names, contact information, booking dates, property details, and information shared with accommodation providers through the platform.
The company has stated that:
Payment card details were not accessed
Account login credentials were not compromised
Measures were taken quickly to contain the issue, including resetting reservation PIN numbers
While the exact number of affected customers has not been disclosed, the fact that direct notifications issued indicates that Booking.com considered the incident significant.
How Gibson & Associates LLP can assist at this stage
If you have received a notification from Booking.com and are seeking clarity rather than urgency, Gibson & Associates LLP can explain what the notification means in practice and outline the options that may be available to you, based on your individual circumstances. There is no obligation to proceed beyond an initial discussion.
Notification is key
It is important to note that not all Booking.com customers are affected.
The company has contacted customers directly where it believes their data may have been involved. Receipt of a notification email or letter from Booking.com is therefore the primary indicator that an individual may be impacted by this incident.
Individuals who have not received such notification are unlikely to be affected.
Legal support where notification has issued
Gibson & Associates LLP is currently accepting enquiries only from individuals who have received written confirmation from Booking.com. This ensures that any advice provided is based on verified information rather than speculation.
Data protection obligations
Under data protection law, organisations that process personal data are required to implement appropriate technical and organisational safeguards. Where a breach occurs, organisations may be required to:
Investigate and contain the issue
Notify relevant regulatory authorities where required
Inform affected individuals if there is a potential risk to their rights and freedoms
Booking.com’s actions in notifying customers reflect these obligations.
Claims following a data breach
A data breach claim does not require proof of financial loss. Courts have recognised that non‑material damage, such as distress, anxiety, or loss of control over personal data, may be considered where appropriate.
Each claim, however, must be assessed individually. Relevant considerations often include:
The nature of the data involved
How the breach occurred
The impact on the individual concerned
The steps taken by the organisation once the breach was identified
Claims arising from incidents of this nature typically involve relatively modest levels of compensation and are commonly pursued only where liability is clear.
How Gibson & Associates LLP approaches these claims
Where appropriate, Gibson & Associates LLP can advise on whether the circumstances surrounding the breach support a claim and explain how such claims are commonly progressed. These matters are usually dealt with on a No Win No Fee basis, meaning legal fees are payable only if a claim is successful.
Proportionality and personal choice
Not every data breach notification will or should result in a claim. Some individuals may feel reassured by the explanation provided by Booking.com and the remedial steps taken. Others may find that the breach caused sufficient concern to warrant seeking legal advice.
Both responses are valid.
There is no requirement to act immediately, and no obligation to pursue a claim simply because a notification has been received.
Taking advice without pressure
An initial conversation with a solicitor can be used simply to understand your position. Gibson & Associates LLP will never progress a matter without clear instruction and will outline options in a measured and transparent way.
Evidence and documentation
For individuals who wish to explore a claim, documentation is essential. This typically includes:
The notification email or letter from Booking.com
Any follow‑up correspondence
Information regarding how the breach affected the individual
Without confirmation from Booking.com that an individual’s data was involved, it is unlikely that a claim can proceed.
No Win No Fee arrangements
Many data breach matters are handled on a No Win No Fee basis. This means:
No legal fees are payable if the claim is unsuccessful
Fees are clearly explained before any work begins
This structure allows individuals to seek advice without committing to upfront legal costs.
Being cautious of misinformation
Following widely reported data breaches, individuals may encounter misleading or overly simplistic claims online. Common red flags include:
Suggestions that compensation is guaranteed
Requests for claims to be submitted without evidence
Pressure‑led or time‑limited messaging
Responsible legal advice will always emphasise that claims depend on individual circumstances and supporting documentation.
Considering your next steps
If you have received a data breach notification from Booking.com, you may wish to:
Retain the notification for your records
Reflect on whether the breach caused concern or disruption
Seek factual legal guidance if you wish to understand your position
There is no requirement to proceed beyond this unless and until you are comfortable doing so.
How Gibson & Associates LLP can help
Gibson & Associates LLP provides measured, guidance‑led advice to individuals who have received confirmed data breach notifications. We focus on clarity, proportionality, and ensuring clients understand their options before any decision is made.
Final thoughts
As digital platforms continue to handle vast amounts of personal data, data breaches remain an ongoing reality. Transparency, accountability, and informed decision‑making are essential components of an appropriate response when incidents occur.
For those who have already received notification and wish to explore their position further, clear legal guidance can assist in determining the right course of action — whatever that may be.
At Gibson & Associates LLP, we’re proud to celebrate the women whose insight, dedication, and leadership strengthen our firm every day. This year, we sat down with two incredible colleagues — Natasha from Business Operations Manager and Nikita, one of our talented Solicitor — to share their experiences, motivations, and the lessons that have shaped their careers.
Natasha Rodgers– Business Operations Manager
What led you to a career in Business Operations?
I naturally moved into Business Operations because I enjoy solving problems and helping things run smoothly. I like being in a role where I can connect different teams and make a real difference to how the business works day to day.
What part of your role has the biggest impact on the firm?
Probably bringing structure and clarity. When processes are clear and teams feel supported, everything works better. If I can make someone’s job easier or help a project run more smoothly, that’s a win.
What skills are most important in Business Operations?
Communication, organisation, and being adaptable. Things change quickly, so being able to stay calm, think clearly, and work well with different people is really important.
What has been a proud moment in your career so far?
Stepping up to take on more responsibility and seeing the positive results from projects I’ve worked on. It’s a great feeling knowing your work has made a difference.
What’s the best piece of career advice you’ve received?
Don’t wait until you feel 100% ready. Growth happens when you push yourself a little outside your comfort zone. What helped you grow the most in your career? Taking on challenges that felt slightly scary at first. Saying yes to new opportunities and being open to feedback really helped me build confidence.
What do you enjoy most about working with your colleagues?
The teamwork. Everyone brings something different to the table, and it’s great working with people who support each other and want to do their best.
What makes a great team in a professional services environment?
Trust, open communication, and accountability. When everyone is clear on their role and works towards the same goal, the results speak for themselves.
How does being a female within your role support the wider firm?
It brings different perspectives and experiences to the table. Representation matters, and I hope that by being visible in my role, I can encourage other women to step forward and aim high.
Nikita Canning– Solicitor
What advice would you give to women starting their legal careers?
Network and take networking seriously. The network you grow in the initial stages of your career stand to you later on in life when you need them most.
What does International Women’s Day mean to you personally?
It’s a day of celebration for women all around the world and is a tribute to the extraordinary strength women show in weaving together the traditional view of the separate worlds of a successful career and a family life. In the legal profession, the definition of a successful woman has undergone a massive transformation. We now recognise that women don’t have to have one or the other and it’s important that we integrate a work life balance.
What is one moment in your legal career you’re proud of?
The moment I realised my role in a clients case had a profound effect in their life moving forward. Whilst many view the legal profession as purely transactional or a financial pursuit, it can be extremely rewarding. To me the most rewarding “win” isn’t the settlement figure but the impact it has made on the individuals life.
Who has inspired or supported you most in your career?
The person who inspired my legal career was my grandad Roger Canning of Canning, Landy and Co who unfortunately is no longer with us. The person who supported me most in my career has been my uncle David Canning of Canning & Co Solicitors. He guided me through my traineeship and continues to support me with advice and support in navigating the ever challenging legal profession.
What is one change you’d like to see for women in the legal profession?
I would like to see further development and integration of a successful work life model to encourage more women to remain and indeed join the legal profession.
What qualities help women succeed in the legal profession?
Resilience: The ability to be extremely busy and face a challenging day and wake up and do it again the following day. Authenticity: Client’s respect and value advice that is given without legal jargon and an ego. Emotional intelligence: Reading the room is equally as important as reading the fine print.
What advice would you give your younger self at the start of your career?
a. Stop second guessing yourself and own the room. Dressing for the job you want, not the one you have isn’t just about your clothes. It’s about commanding the room before you speak
We use technologies like cookies to store and/or access device information. We do this to improve browsing experience and to show (non-) personalised ads. Consenting to these technologies will allow us to process data such as browsing behaviour or unique IDs on this site. Not consenting or withdrawing consent, may adversely affect certain features and functions.
Functional
Always active
The technical storage or access is strictly necessary for the legitimate purpose of enabling the use of a specific service explicitly requested by the subscriber or user, or for the sole purpose of carrying out the transmission of a communication over an electronic communications network.
Preferences
The technical storage or access is necessary for the legitimate purpose of storing preferences that are not requested by the subscriber or user.
Statistics
The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for statistical purposes.The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for anonymous statistical purposes. Without a subpoena, voluntary compliance on the part of your Internet Service Provider, or additional records from a third party, information stored or retrieved for this purpose alone cannot usually be used to identify you.
Marketing
The technical storage or access is required to create user profiles to send advertising, or to track the user on a website or across several websites for similar marketing purposes.
