There are several different types of visas available for those wishing to travel to Ireland. These include a short-stay visa, long-stay visa, transit visa, student visa, and business visa. To be completely eligible for an Irish visa, applicants must meet the requirements of the Irish Immigration and Protection Act 2015. Depending on the purpose of Irish travel and the duration of stay, applicants may be required to provide additional documents.
Requirements to get an Irish visa
The requirements for an Irish visa depend on the type of visa being applied for or you can take guidance from Investor Visa Ireland. Generally, applicants will need to submit a completed visa application form, a valid passport, two passport-sized photos, proof of payment, and the required supporting documents. The documents required may include proof of financial resources, proof of accommodation, a letter of invitation (for certain visas), and proof of travel insurance.
What does an Irish visa cover?
An Irish visa covers an individual’s stay in Ireland for up to 90 days for either tourism or business purposes. Depending on the visa type, it may also allow the individual to take part in certain activities or work while in Ireland.
Benefits of an Irish visa
An Irish visa is required for anyone wishing to travel to Ireland for any purpose, including tourism, business, study, work, or family visits. The visa is issued by the Irish Naturalization and Immigration Service (INIS) and is a stamp or label that is placed on your passport. It is important to ensure that you meet the requirements and conditions of the visa before traveling to Ireland.
1. Fast and Easy Application Process
Applying for an Irish visa is a straightforward process, with most applications being processed in as little as four weeks. You will need to:
- Fill out the application form. Make sure to provide all the required information accurately and truthfully.
- Collect the required documents. Depending on the type of Irish visa you are applying for, applicants may need to provide additional documents such as a passport, proof of accommodation, and proof of financial resources. Check the INIS website for a full list of required documents.
- Submit your application. You can submit your application in person at the Irish Embassy or Consulate throughout your home country, or you can submit it online.
- Wait for a response. You should receive a response to your visa application within 10 working days.
2. Access to Europe
An Irish visa allows or enables you to travel to the other 26 countries in the Schengen Area, giving you or applicants access to a huge range of destinations across Europe. The Irish visa system offers several different options for accessing Europe. Depending on your nationality, you can apply for a visa to travel to Europe through Ireland. If you are a citizen of a state that seems to be part of the Schengen Area, you can travel to Europe without a visa. If you are not a citizen of a Schengen Area country, you may be able or capable to apply for an Irish Short Stay Visa to visit for up to 90 days in any 180 days.
This Irish visa allows you to travel freely throughout the Schengen Area. You can also apply for an Irish Long Stay Visa to stay for longer than 90 days. You will need or have to prove that you have the proper financial means to fully support yourself during your stay, and depending on your nationality, you may also need to provide a valid purpose for your stay. Finally, you can apply for an Irish Working Holiday Authorization to stay in Ireland for up to 12 months. This authorization allows you to take part in certain types of work during your stay.
3. Low Cost
A single-entry Irish visa costs only €60, which is much lower than in many other European countries. The Irish visa has a low cost compared to many other visas. This is more affordable than many other visas from other countries, which can cost up to hundreds of euros. Additionally, the cost of a multiple-entry visa is only €100, making it an even more attractive option for people who plan to travel to Ireland multiple times.
4. Work and Study Opportunities
An Irish visa allows you to work and study in the country, allowing you to experience the culture and economy of the Emerald Isle.
Work Opportunities
Working Holiday Authorisation
The Working Holiday Authorisation (WHA) program allows young people or citizens between 18 and 30 years of age to work in Ireland for up to 12 months.
Employment Permits
Employment Permits are issued to non-EEA nationals (non-European Economic Area) who wish to work in Ireland.
Intra-Company Transfer Scheme
The Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) Scheme enables companies based outside of Ireland to transfer personnel to their Irish branch on a long-term basis.
Dependant/Partner/Spouse Employment Permit
Non-EEA family members of an Employment Permit or Intra-Company Transfer permit holder may apply for a Dependant/Partner/Spouse Employment Permit.
Study Opportunities
Study Visa
Non-EEA nationals may require a visa to study in Ireland.
Third Level Course
Third-level courses are available to international students in Ireland.
English Language Courses
English language courses are available to international students in Ireland.
Professional and Vocational Courses
Professional and vocational courses are available to international students in Ireland.
5. Long Stay Options
If you’re looking for a longer stay in Ireland, you can apply for a multi-entry visa, which allows or enables you to stay for up to or approx 12 months. The most common long-stay options available for Irish Visas are:
Long-Stay Business Visa
This type of visa allows business people to stay in Ireland for up to or approx 90 days in any 180 days. This is a great option for those planning to conduct business in the country.
Long-Stay Employment Visa
This type of visa allows people to work in Ireland for up to 12 months. It is especially useful for those who want to take up full-time employment in the country.
Long-Stay Student Visa
This type of visa allows students to stay in Ireland for up to 9 months. It is a great option for those who want to study in Ireland for a longer period.
Long-Stay Residence Visa
This type of visa allows people to stay in Ireland for up to 5 years. It is especially useful for those who want to reside in the country permanently.
