The plans are set to cost the Government up to €1 million.
Irish Erasmus students returning home over the next few months from EU countries added to the mandatory hotel quarantine list are set to have the costs of their quarantine covered by the Government.
Belgium, France, Italy and Luxembourg will be added to the mandatory hotel quarantine list from 15 April, joining Austria, which was already included.
Prior to the decision to add these EU countries, some Government ministers raised concern in regards to the high numbers of Irish people living abroad.
It was thought some might not have the money to be able to return home under the conditions of the mandatory hotel quarantine which costs €1,875 for a 12-night stay.
However, Irish college students on Erasmus programmes in these countries are set to have the costs of mandatory hotel quarantine paid for by the State.
Higher Education Minister Simon Harris is said to be working on a €1 million plan with the Higher Education Authority to cover the costs.
Around 500 students on Erasmus are expected to have their accommodation costs covered between now and August.
A spokesperson for Harris said further details should be provided in the coming days.
LISTEN: You Must Be Jokin’ with Aideen McQueen – Faith healers, Coolock craic and Gigging as Gaeilge
