Irina's Family Shop

Irina came to Ireland in 2005 to apply for asylum. She lived with a friend while her application was being considered. As an asylum seeker, Irina was not allowed to work, so after six months she decided to return to Moldova to be with her family.

Her solicitor told her about the VARR programme offered by IOM. Irina made an appointment to apply for assistance and returned one month later. In Moldova, she applied for the reintegration grant and used the fund to invest in her family’s shop to become a partial owner. She also purchased new products to attract more customers.

After six months, IOM staff in Moldova contacted Irina about her reintegration experience. Irina was able to support herself with the profit from the shop, and was happy to be in Moldova with her family.