A senior minister says a new scheme allowing undocumented migrants to apply for residency shows the compassion of Irish citizens.
The initiative is expected to regularise thousands of migrants living in Ireland.
Migrants and campaigners outside government buildings today were celebrating the new scheme granting amnesty to the undocumented.
It will let those who have lived in the state for at least four years apply for residency.
Bill Abom from the Migrants Rights Centre says it will potentially open up a pathway to citizenship.
"They will be given what is called a 'Stamp 4', which gives them residency, it's not citizenship. But then in time they would be able to apply for citizenship."
Karuna, an undocumented migrant from Nepal living in Ireland for 10 years, says it will make an enormous difference.
"Thousands of undocumented workers and families are so happy today. It allows us to stay here in this country. It transforms our lives, I'm so happy."
And Equality minister Roderic O’Gorman says it shows the compassion of the Irish people.
"We've seen time again with campaigns to end Direct Provision - demanding compassion from Governments towards those in needs and those who've made their homes here."
The time limited scheme will open in January, and migrants will have a six month window to apply.
