To: University of Galway Management and Relevant Authorities

Subject: Urgent Appeal for Timely GNIB 1G Visa Appointments

We, the undersigned, are writing to draw attention to a significant issue that is severely affecting international students at our university. The current scheduling of 1G visa transition appointments around November and December 2024, followed by the Christmas holidays, is placing international students in a highly disadvantageous position in securing employment. This delay prevents us from legally working full-time even after completing our courses, thereby hindering our job application process and career progression.

The delay in securing GNIB appointments exacerbates our situation, causing us to miss out on valuable job opportunities and placing us at a clear disadvantage compared to our Irish peers. It is crucial to note that even the university will not hire us without a 1G visa, further limiting our prospects. This issue not only affects our professional growth but also causes significant hardship and distress.

International students comprise a significant portion of PGT numbers and therefore are a valuable cohort of our student community. At a fundamental level, we argue that this is an EDI issue in that international students are pitched at a disadvantage relevant to Irish students. Being an international student presents unique challenges in the labour market. This visa issue further exacerbates those challenges.

Ultimately, this issue presents a reputational risk for our School. Students coming here to study must see that the School will support them in securing employment visas so that they can capitalize on their educational investment with early career opportunities.

Background Information:

1. Post Graduate students complete their coursework by July and need a 1G visa to secure employment.
2. To obtain a 1G visa, students must make an appointment with GNIB.
   Until recently, appointments could not be booked without a 'letter of completion,' which PDs issue at the start of August. Although the rules have changed, allowing appointments without the letter, many students who waited for the letter now cannot secure appointments until December.
3. Galway GNIB has only two immigration officers (out of an allocation of four), further contributing to the backlog.
4. Limerick has successfully moved GNIB services online via Dublin, providing a potential model for other regions.

The University of Galway is on a journey to create a more globally diverse, and culturally rich, learning and working experience. A place where everyone has a sense of belonging.

Where we welcome the world in and go out into the world. Where we nurture global citizens. Where everyone has a place to thrive. https://www.universityofgalway.ie/global-galway-project/

Proposed Solutions:

• Online Appointment System: Considering the success in Limerick, implementing an online application system for GNIB appointments in Dublin could significantly reduce the backlog and streamline the process.
• Addressing Staffing Issues: Increasing the number of immigration officers at Galway GNIB is crucial to mitigate the current backlog.
• University of Galway lobbying: We believe that university action and intervention would not only help in securing timely appointments but also ensure that international students are treated equally and not unfairly disadvantaged due to administrative delays.
   

Call to Action:

We suggest the formation of a stakeholder group within the university to develop an action plan. This group should be made up of representatives from the International Office, CDC, EDI Office, Dean of Students, PDs, SU, and student reps. A local GNIB representative should be co-opted to the group. As part of an action plan, the university should form a lobby pushing for systemic changes to ensure that international students can transition smoothly into the workforce upon completing their studies.

We also request your support in advocating for earlier GNIB appointments for international students.

Impact on Students:

The delay in securing GNIB 1G visas has already caused significant financial and emotional distress and missed opportunities for students. It has placed us at a clear disadvantage compared to our peers and has hindered our ability to compete fairly in the job market. Addressing this issue promptly is essential to ensure that international students can continue to contribute to, and benefit from, the educational and professional opportunities in Ireland.

We appreciate your understanding and support in this matter.

Sincerely the undersigned.

 

Signatures: List of Signatures from Affected Students

We trust that you will consider this petition with the urgency and seriousness it deserves. Thank you for your attention to this critical issue.

If you support this initiative please sign here. The more signatures, the stronger our voice.

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Please include one sentence describing the impact (emotional, professional, financial etc.) this issue has on you in comment section below.