Your housing options
IPAS accommodation
If you arrived recently and have no housing, IPAS (International Protection Accommodation Service) can provide temporary accommodation while you get established. This is designed as a short-term bridge — the goal is to move into private rented accommodation as quickly as possible.
Private rental with HAP
HAP (Housing Assistance Payment) is available to Ukrainians with Temporary Protection. Under HAP, your local council pays your rent directly to the landlord. You pay the council a smaller contribution based on your income. This is the main long-term housing solution.
Social housing waiting list
You can apply to go on the social housing waiting list. This list can be very long — years in Dublin and major cities. Apply as soon as possible even if you expect to wait. Being on the list is also required before you can access HAP.
How to get HAP — step by step
- 1
Go on the social housing list
Contact your local council and ask to be assessed for social housing. You will fill in a Housing Needs Assessment form.
- 2
Find a property within HAP limits
Every area has maximum rent limits for HAP. Check the amounts on your council's website. The landlord must agree to accept HAP — it is now a legal requirement for landlords.
- 3
Apply for HAP at the council
Once you have found a property, fill in the HAP application at the council. The landlord fills in their section too. Once approved, the council pays the rent directly.
Emergency housing
If you are in immediate need of housing — sleeping rough, in unsafe accommodation, or about to be made homeless — contact your local council's Housing Department immediately and ask for emergency accommodation. You can also contact Focus Ireland (focusireland.ie) or the Peter McVerry Trust (pmvtrust.ie) for emergency help.
More Temporary Protection Guides
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