Young immigrants who fail to register for an Irish Residence Permit at 16 face huge problems in accessing work, education or housing.
Most wait until they are 18 - only to be told they have been living here illegally for two years.
The Immigrant Council of Ireland has launched a new book to provide them with more information.
The organisation’s CEO is Brian Killoran says a few months can make a huge difference to their outlook on life and how they view their place in Irish society.
He said: "It is very important to them but it is also very important to Ireland that we get this right."
<b>- Digital Desk</b>