Confusion in Department of Social and Family Affairs regarding requirements for issue of PPS numbers
The Migrant Rights Centre of Ireland and the Irish Times have reported that some undocumented immigrants are having difficulty getting PPS numbers.
Nasc was recently contacted by a man who has applied for permission to remain in Ireland on the basis of his marriage. In order to make the application to the INIS, he will need to have a PPS number. However, he was informed by the front-desk officer at the Department of Social Protection that he would not be entitled to get a PPS number unless his wife was working. This is incorrect and the situation was eventually remedied.
Please note that the only requirement for the issue of a PPS number is valid identification (usually, a passport) and evidence of address in Ireland. This has now been confirmed on by the Department of Social Protection on their website, here.
Please note that having a PPS number does not entitle you to live or work in Ireland, or to claim any kind of social benefit. However, you will need one in order to open a bank account, or to apply for permission to live or work in Ireland.
