irish tourist visa decisions

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Visas for tourists visiting Ireland

Who needs a short-stay visa for ireland, how to apply for a short-stay visa, documents to send for a short-stay visa, decisions and appeals, can i stay longer than 3 months, further information.

If you plan to visit Ireland, you should check if you need a visa .

This page has information on how to apply for a short-stay visa. This is also called a ‘C’ visa and is usually valid for up to 90 days from the issue date of the visa. You apply for a C visa if you plan to come to Ireland:

• For tourism
• To visit family or friends
• To get married
• For medical treatment
• For short-term study

If you are not a citizen of the EU, EEA, Switzerland or UK and you do not need a visa to come to Ireland, you still need to have documents with you to show the reason for your visit. You must present yourself at immigration when you enter Ireland.

Having a visa does not guarantee that you will be allowed to enter Ireland .

You apply for a visa online. You complete a separate application for each person travelling, including children. After you have submitted the visa form, you have 30 days to send the supporting documents. It’s a good idea to prepare your documents before completing the form.

You pay a fee of €60 for each application. A multiple entry visa costs €100.

When you have submitted the form, you will get a summary of your application. This includes:

• Your visa application transaction number
• Your application summary sheet
• Details of the application office where you should send your documents

You send the signed summary sheet with your documents.

You must send documents in support of your application. This section has information on the main documents you need to send. You can get more information about documentation on the Irish Immigration Delivery website.

You must send original documents (not photocopies). If your documents are not in English, you must send a certified translation and the original document.

Birth, marriage and death certificates will be returned to you. If you want other pages returned to you, you should include a note with your application that says this. Send a photocopy (in addition to the original) of the page you want returned to you.

If your visa is approved, you must get travel insurance before you travel to Ireland.

Letter of application

You must write a letter that explains why you want to come to Ireland. You should give the details of your trip, including the dates you plan to be here, where you will stay and how you will pay for things while you are here.

You must say in your letter that you will:

• Obey the conditions of your visa in full
• Leave Ireland before your visa expires
• Not rely on public services or become a burden on the State

If you are visiting friends or family your letter should also have:

• Their names and addresses
• The names and addresses of any of your family who live in Ireland or another country in the EEA or Switzerland, even if you do not plan to visit them

Letter of invitation

If you are visiting someone in Ireland, you should send a letter of invitation written by them. The letter should have information about how they know you, the dates you are visiting them and why they are inviting you to Ireland.

They should include a colour copy of their passport or national identity card. If they are from outside the EEA, Switzerland and UK, they must include a copy of their Irish Resident Permit and the current immigration stamp in their passport.

The letter must also say that they understand you must:

Information about where you will stay

You must include the details of where you will stay. You should include printouts of your booking confirmations. If you are staying with friends, family or colleagues, see ‘letter of invitation’ above.

You must send your current passport. It must be valid for at least 6 months after the date you plan to leave Ireland. You must also send a photocopy of each page of all of your previous passports.

Proof of finances

You must show that you have the money you need for your trip. If someone else is paying for your visit (for example a family member), you should send documents to show that they can afford to pay for you.

You don’t need to have a particular or set amount of money to qualify for a short-stay visa.

Passport photos

Include 2 passport photos. You must sign your name and put your visa application transaction number on the back of each photo.

Show that you must return home

You must show that you have strong ties to your home country and that you must return home. This could be family responsibilities, work, education or something else. You should send proof of these responsibilities. For example, if you are working you should send a letter from your employer and recent payslips.

You can read more details of the documents you need on the Immigration Service Delivery website.

If you sent your application to Dublin, you can check visa decisions and waiting times . If you sent your application somewhere else, you can contact the embassy or consulate you sent your documents to for updates on your application. Applications take around 8 weeks, but may take longer.

If your visa application is successful, the visa office will post your passport back to you with the visa attached. The visa will be valid for a particular period. Having a visa does not guarantee that you will be allowed to enter Ireland .

You will get a letter that says why your visa application was refused. You can appeal this decision within 2 months.

You are expected to leave the State on or before the date which has been stamped on your passport by the Immigration Officer when you entered.

You can only extend your visa if there is an unexpected change in your circumstances since you entered Ireland.

You cannot get an extension if:

• There is no change in circumstances from the time you entered Ireland
• There is no change in circumstances from the time you were granted a travel visa
• You are in Ireland to seek medical attention
• You are seeking a permission to marry in Ireland
• You are in Ireland to provide childcare facilities
• You wish to live in Ireland full time

Some people do not have to pay the visa fee .

A visa costs:

Single-journey visa : €60

Multiple-journey visa : €100

If you require a visa in order to visit Ireland, your application must be made online .

Irish embassies and consulates

Visa Office

Immigration Service Delivery 13-14 Burgh Quay Dublin 2 D02 XK70 Ireland

Related documents

• Visas for people visiting Ireland on business Certain people who wish to travel to Ireland for business purposes require visas. Find out more. 1955.1193
• Student visas to study in Ireland People from certain countries who wish to study in Ireland require visas. Find out more. 1066.1954
• Returning to Ireland to care for a family member This page includes information on returning to Ireland to care for a family member. 983.8771

If you have a question about this topic you can contact the Citizens Information Phone Service on 0818 07 4000 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 8pm).

You can also contact your local Citizens Information Centre .

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Ireland Solved

Tourist Visa In Ireland: A Simple Guide

Ah, Ireland—a country of rugged coastlines , warm pubs , and complicated tourist visa paperwork. Just kidding!

It’s not that bad, especially if you know what you’re doing.

So before you dream of frolicking among the shamrocks, let’s break down how to secure that essential entry ticket : your tourist visa.

Living In Ireland

Situated in the North Atlantic in northwestern Europe, Ireland is the second-largest island of the British Isles. Split between the north and the south, most of the region is made up of the Republic of Ireland, while Northern Ireland forms part of the United Kingdom.

Ireland has been a member of the European Union since 1973 and is a member of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, the World Trade Organization, and the United Nations.

Home to 5.2 million people, Ireland boasts a mild oceanic climate , and the landscape comprises low-lying mountains and lush vegetation . 

The country is one of the most attractive European destinations due to its rich cultural history, historic architecture, natural beauty, and thriving business environment.

Facts About Ireland

A tech giant.

A thriving startup and IT culture and some of Europe’s most prominent research centers have contributed to Ireland’s status as one of the region’s most attractive countries for foreign direct investment. 

The government is committed to supporting innovation, with Industry Development Agency Ireland and Enterprise Ireland encouraging modernization.

Excellent infrastructure and some of the fastest connection speeds in Europe have produced a golden tech environment.

Ireland is a favorite for US tech companies . Since IBM, the first US company to invest in the country, opened an office in 1956 , many tech powerhouses followed suit, including Ericsson.

A year later, Microsoft, Dell , and Apple in the 1980s , and many more throughout the years. The 2000s saw Google, Yahoo, Amazon, eBay, and Mastercard , among others, opening operations in Ireland.

In addition, the Europe, Middle East, and Africa headquarters for social media forces Google, Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn can be found in Dublin’s Silicon Docks.

A Strong, Open Economy

Ireland has developed a reputation for being one of the most open economies in the world. The country greatly benefits from modern world trade and has shown how quickly it can adapt to fluctuating market conditions. 

Ireland has often been ranked as one of the best countries in the world to do business in and provides optimal legislation and incentives for foreign businesspeople.

Investors can look forward to taking advantage of the following:

• One of the EU’s fastest-growing economies
• A very high quality of life ranking in the top five most developed nations on the UN’s Human Development Index, ahead of Canada, the UK, and the USA.
• Some of the world’s most prestigious and well-known boarding schools and universities
• A young, highly educated, English-speaking workforce
• A favorable tax regime for investors, with corporate tax at 15%, compared to 35% in the USA
• The 1st position in Europe for ease of paying taxes, according to PwC’s Paying Taxes 2020 report
• An increasing number of multinationals and foreign businesses are relocating to Ireland for its generous incentives

Best Places To Visit In Ireland

Ireland is a country of beautiful and diverse landscapes. 

Here, you’ll see rugged coasts lined with glacial-era limestone, vast peninsulas made up of sandy white beaches, and green hills that roll off into the distance. 

You also experience modern cityscapes, Georgian architecture, and delicious Irish food and drink in Ireland. 

Make sure to roam Ireland’s capital city and its pretty canals lined with cobbled streets. Here, you’ll discover some of the best live Irish folk music you’ll ever tap your foot to.

Once you explore some of the capital’s historical and cultural attractions , you’ll wonder why you didn’t take a trip to Dublin sooner.

Tour Ireland’s oldest university, Trinity College Dublin, where you can see the Book of Kells. Another historical highlight you should visit is the grand St Patrick’s Cathedral.

Every trip to Dublin is complete with a visit to the Temple Bar District. As soon as you enter the famous quarters, you’ll hear live music from the many bars and pubs and buskers on the street. 

Of course, you can only go home with having tried one of Ireland’s most famous exports: Guinness.

Whether you’re a staunch stout enthusiast or want to see why it’s so beloved in Ireland, visit the Guinness Storehouse. At this top attraction in Dublin, you’ll go behind the scenes at a working brewery and taste a perfectly poured pint.

The colorful harbor city of Galway is effortlessly cool, with its burgeoning art scene , rich musical background , and roots in Irish history and language.

You’ll enjoy the best sightseeing in Galway by exploring the city on foot. Stroll down the Salthill Promenade, dating back to the 19th century, and breathe in the sea air that rolls in from Galway Bay. 

Take advantage of the opportunity to pass by Galway Cathedral, the Galway City Museum, and the medieval Kirwan’s Lane. This will give you a fascinating taste of the city’s heritage.

If you love soaking up local cultures through festivals, be sure to time your trip to Galway for one of the exciting events held here annually. 

You could go along to the Galway International Arts Festival in mid to late July , for a complete immersion into the vibrant art, theatre, and music scene. Or savor one of the region’s finest delicacies at the Oyster Festival at the end of September.

Nestled on the banks of the River Lee, Cork is a bustling city with a history that can be traced back to the 6th century . Today, though, Cork has a reputation for being the foodie capital of Ireland.

The city has many inviting cafés, traditional pubs , and enticing restaurants serving everything you want to sink your teeth into. You’ll be able to enjoy a bit of everything, from hearty farm-to-table Irish fare to modern and flavourful vegan cooking.

Be sure to visit the English Market, with its high, ornate vaulted ceilings and grand marble fountain. This market sells some of the tastiest fresh produce in the region.

Cork also has plenty of eye-catching architecture for you to admire. As you walk around town, feast your eyes on grand Georgian streets and hidden alleyways that date back to the 17th century. 

You’ll want to visit Blarney Castle if you’re a history buff. Situated just north of Cork, you’ll find this striking medieval stronghold in a picturesque setting, surrounded by leafy woodlands. 

You could kiss the famous Blarney Stone, and perhaps you’ll be blessed with the gift of the gab, as the legend goes!

Ring Of Kerry

If you only take one Irish road trip, make it the Ring of Kerry. Whichever window you peer out of, you’re guaranteed impressive views along these 179 kilometers (111 miles) on the southwest coast of Ireland.

This circular route, part of the Wild Atlantic Way, takes you across the green hills and stunning coastlines of the Iveragh Peninsula.

You could enjoy activities such as fishing, golf, and water sports and stay the night at cozy hotels to experience the warm Irish hospitality. On clear nights, you may even be able to watch the sun melt into the vast North Atlantic Ocean.

Explore Killarney, where your Ring of Kerry road trip begins, and the beautiful Killarney National Park. Marvel at historical sites like Ross Castle, Muckross House and Abbey, and the ancient stone forts of Caherdaniel and Staigue.

Soak up stunning natural wonders at Torc Waterfall, the Skellig Islands, and the Gap of Dunloe mountain pass.

The Ring of Kerry is one of the best places to visit in Ireland for a remarkable snapshot of Irish culture and nature.

Dingle Peninsula

Also part of the famous Wild Atlantic Way route, the rugged Dingle Peninsula is brimming with natural charm. If you love hiking and wildlife watching, this is the place for you!

You’ll have 48 kilometers (30 miles) of scenic sights to explore in the Dingle Peninsula in southwest Ireland. 

Roam remote shores; mountain ranges such as Slieve Mish, and pristine beaches. Stop by one of the small towns and seaside villages where you can immerse yourself in Irish traditions and culture.

During your visit to the Dingle Peninsula, you could take a boat tour of Dingle Bay to see dolphins and other marine wildlife. You can also hike up Mount Brandon or stroll along the sands at Inch Beach.

Take advantage of a trip along the Slea Head Drive, a circular route at the westernmost point of the peninsula. 

Here, you’ll find fascinating artifacts at the Celtic & Prehistoric Museum and learn about life on this remote archipelago at the Blasket Centre. Moreover, you can see the Blasket Islands from the shore on a clear day.

What Is An Ireland Visitor Visa?

Ireland is home to 30,000 castles . If you are okay with the rainy weather, there is a lot to see, from historical monuments to museums and bustling cities in this country. The breathtaking natural landscapes of Ireland give the epithet “Emerald Isle”.

This small country attracts millions of visitors every year. You can never get bored in Ireland. Over 11.2 million people traveled to Ireland as tourists in 2019. This generated Euro 5.8 billion for the country’s economy. 

Ireland Tourist Visa is also known as the Ireland Visitor Visa . This is a short-stay visa (C visa) that allows you pre-entry clearance. It helps you go through Border Control and request permission to enter the country.

This visa is only valid for a maximum of 90 days or less. The immigration officer will decide how long you can stay in the country.

As a foreign national, you can fall into any of these 3 categories for your right to visit the country. This depends upon your country of origin.

No Ireland Tourist Visa Required

You can travel to Ireland without applying for a visa if you are a citizen of any of the EU countries, from Switzerland, or the countries falling under EEA agreements.

No Ireland Tourist Visa Required But Subject To Border Control

Citizens other than EU countries or under the EEA agreement are granted visa-free travel to Ireland. 

Such cases have to request permission to stay from the Immigration Officer at Border Control.

Both Ireland Tourist Visa And Border Control Are Required

All other citizens across the world have to apply for a visa if they want to travel to Ireland. They will also have to seek permission from the Immigration Officer at Border Control to stay in Ireland.

Types Of Ireland Tourist Visas

There are two main types of Ireland Tourist Visas.

Ireland Single-Entry Tourist Visa

allows you to enter the country only once. You cannot re-enter once you leave, even if there are remaining days on the visa.

Ireland Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa

This allows you to enter and leave the country as many times as you want. However, this is only issued in specific cases.

People already having received an Ireland Tourist Visa or need to make short and frequent trips, like for business, can avail of the Ireland Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa.

Transit Visa

People from a small number of countries on their way to another country will also need an Irish Transit Visa. 

What Is The Eligibility Criteria For The Ireland Tourist Visa?

You will have to meet the following criteria to be eligible to travel to Ireland.

• Be a genuine traveler.
• Capable of bearing all expenses.
• Have valid reasons to return.
• Be in good health .
• Be of good character .
• The valid purpose for travel.

The Irish Embassy or Consulate reserves the right to ask for additional documents. A personal appearance for interviews in exceptional cases may also be desired.

The documents mentioned here do not guarantee to grant a visa. Visa applications may be rejected in case of incomplete documentation or refusal to appear.

What Documents Are Required For The Ireland Tourist Visa?

Here is an extensive list of all necessary documents required to be submitted by Indian passport holders seeking an Ireland Tourist Visa.

Valid Passport

Your passport should be valid for 6 months ahead of the span of your stay. It should have a minimum of two blank pages for the visa stamp. It should not be torn, ripped, split, or damaged in any way.

Photographs

Your face in the passport photograph must cover 80% of the frame.

Travel Documents

Air tickets need to be booked for the complete round trip. It should reveal your course of travel and confirm your return to the native country. This is an important document that needs to be submitted.

Travel Insurance

You cannot travel to Ireland without travel insurance. It should also be valid for your entire stay in the country. It should also mention your details as per those in the passport.

Covering Letter

This is the first document that is seen by the consular. Covering letters lacking relevant information may cause your visa to be rejected. Seek professional visa services while creating one to cover all necessary details.

How To Apply For The Irish Tourist Visa?

The below points give you a step-by-step procedure to get an Irish Visiting Visa.

Step 1: Download The Application

Step 2: Fill out the application with the correct details.

Step 3: Submit the online visa application form on the official website.

Step 4: After submission, you will be provided a declaration.

Step 5: Print the declaration into a hard copy , sign it, and keep it.

Step 6: The fee should be submitted at the mentioned place and time.

Step 7: Submit the application at the visa office/Irish consulate/Irish embassy.

What Follows The Submission Of Application?

The application status will be notified through SMS if you have opted for this service, or via email. Four SMS and email notifications are typically sent at various stages of processing.

Sometimes, you may be asked to provide more information or additional documents or attend another interview.

What Costs Are Involved With The Ireland Tourist Visa?

Application Fee for Ireland Tourist Visa is:

• Single-Entry Tourist Visa: EUR 56.38
• Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa: EUR 93.59 
• Transit Visa Fee: EUR 23.68

What Is The Processing Time For An Ireland Visitor Visa?

The Irish Visa has to be applied in an online form. Eight weeks is the visa processing period, which the Irish Naturalization and Immigration Service tells you. 

That is, you must apply for the Ireland Visa at least 2 months before the period you plan to get to Ireland. But please apply even before that. 

Ireland Travel Tips: What To Know Before You Go

If you’re coming from the UK or other parts of mainland Europe, there are low-cost airlines you can snag a cheap seat with. 

However, These have one major drawback, and that’s the baggage restrictions. So don’t get caught out – check the baggage allowances before you fly. 

And no matter what you’re planning on doing when you arrive, the golden rule is to pack layers. Weather in Ireland is highly changeable – the sun could be beaming down one moment, and it could be cloudy and grey the next. 

With some dramatic exceptions (we recommend googling The Beast from the East), you can expect moderate temperatures and a bit of light just about anytime, anywhere in Ireland. 

This way, you can strip down or add layers as the weather changes throughout the day. Check the 10-day weather forecast and pack accordingly. 

But remember, regardless of what the forecast says, a waterproof jacket and boots are a must. (we’re not joking when we say you could experience all four seasons in one day here!) 

Bonus tip : Double-check your passport expiration date before traveling and ensure you have enough time to renew it if needed. 

Travel Out Of Season If You Want Fewer Crowds Or Are On A Budget

Ireland’s peak season is the summer months , from about the middle of June through mid-September. 

For much of this period, Ireland – particularly the coast – can be bathed in the sun, worth considering when deciding the best time to visit. If you’re planning to lie on a beach or surf, you’ll want to go in summer. 

For outdoor pursuits, you’ll also find June to September the warmest and driest for walking and climbing.

The downside is you can be jostling with thousands of people at some of the more prominent attractions. You’ll also want to book your accommodation as far in advance as possible (and remember that peak season = peak prices).

One of the most significant benefits of traveling to Ireland in the off-peak season is having more time and space to explore comfortably. For reasonably good weather with less dense crowds, go in April, May, or October. 

It’s also a bit cheaper to visit in the off-season – as the crowds thin out, the hospitality industry starts vying for the remaining travelers’ attention, which means better rates and deals.

Since the days are shorter in the winter, you must also consider that when planning to visit Ireland. 

Choose Your Transport Carefully

If you’re planning a city break in Dublin, renting a car is only necessary if you plan to travel to the more rural parts of the island. 

Most trips to Ireland will start and end at Dublin Airport, and you can easily pick up your car rental at one of NewWay’s desks in Terminals 1 and 2 .

While you can get around a good chunk of the country using public transport, a car allows you to squeeze into the little country roads and explore some seriously hidden gems off the beaten track. 

Also, there are some parts that a large bus cannot get to, so having your rental car is going to give you access to absolutely everything.

Finding Free Wi-Fi Is A Breeze

EU roaming charges were scrapped a few years back, meaning any EU visitors to Ireland can now “roam like at home”. 

For the rest of you, there’s no need to fret about racking up a sky-high phone bill.

Ireland is chock full of places offering free Wi-Fi hotspots. Cafes, shopping centers, and pubs, in particular, like to provide free wifi to increase their business by attracting more customers. 

You’ll also find free Wi-Fi hotspots in train and bus stations , public transport, museums, restaurants, airports, and all kinds of tourist hotspots throughout the country. 

If you plan on visiting more remote parts of the island and have an unlocked phone, you can also pick up a SIM card relatively cheaply at the SPAR at Dublin Airport. 

Book As Much As You Can In Advance Online

Want to keep your trip as affordable and stress-free as possible? 

From flights to rental cars and accommodation to tickets for popular attractions, make sure you’re booking these well upfront, especially if you’re traveling in the summer high season. 

The longer you dawdle, the fewer options you’ll have and the more you need to pay. 

There you go! You’re one step closer to enjoying the Emerald Isle without any pesky visa hiccups. Whether it’s the Cliffs of Moher or a cozy Dublin pub you’re yearning for, your Irish dream is now within reach.

So go ahead, pack your bags and maybe even a four-leaf clover for good luck!

Travel Ready!

But wait! there’s lot more that you might be interested in to follow:

• Types OF Visas In Ireland
• Tax Refund In Ireland
• Temporary Residence In Ireland

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Ireland Visa Processing Time Guide

If you wish to work, reunite with family or visit Ireland, you may need to obtain a visa before entering the country.

Contact our experienced legal team online , on (+353) 061 518 025 or visit our office in Limerick for advice about your Irish visa today.

Request a call back from our immigration experts

• Overview of Ireland Visa Processing Times

Depending on your citizenship and purpose for travel, there are many types of visas you can apply for to visit Ireland.

Each type of visa has a different processing time, ranging from 8 weeks to 12 months. Generally, Irish Long Stay ‘D’ visas require more in-depth assessment and therefore take longer than Short Stay ‘C’ visas .

All Irish visas must be submitted online through AVATS, on the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS). Following the submission of your application, you will be notified of the next steps you must follow depending on your location, citizenship and the type of visa applied for.

The Irish Department of Justice deals with visa applications, preclearance applications and visa appeals in the chronological date order they are received at the office.

Processing time may vary depending on the embassy or consulate your application is sent. You can check the date of current applications being processed on the Irish Department of Justice website or the website of the embassy to which you applied.

If your application has been sent to the Dublin visa office, depending on where you send your application form, the date on which they receive your application may be several days or weeks after you send it, increasing the processing time for your Irish visa.

Once received by the visa office, visa application and visa appeal requests are separated.

These two queues are then divided into smaller queues according to the type of visa applied for, with each type of visa having a different processing time.

Page Contents

Ireland tourist visa processing time, join family visa ireland processing time, ireland work visa processing time, ireland student visa processing time, what can delay my visa application, how can ias help, frequently asked questions.

There are several types of Ireland tourist visas available including a Short Stay ‘C’ (Tourist) visa and a Transit visa for visitors from certain countries who want to pass through an Irish airport or seaport to travel to another country.

You can apply for an Ireland Short Stay ‘C’ (Tourist) visa up to 90 days before the date of your travel to Ireland and the visa will be valid for the time specified on the document.

Generally, you can expect to receive a decision about your Ireland Tourist visa approximately 8 weeks after all of the necessary documents have been received.

If you wish to unite with family in Ireland for longer than 90 days, you must obtain the necessary permission before you travel.

The route and Family visa processing time varies depending on the nationality of the application sponsor (the family member currently residing in Ireland).

If the sponsor is an Irish citizen or is entitled to immediate family unification, the Join Family visa processing time is approximately 6 months after all required documentation is received.

Applications for Join Family visas from sponsors of other nationalities will receive a decision within approximately 12 months of the visa office receiving the necessary documents and information.

If the sponsor is a Swiss or EEA national, you can apply for a Residence Card of a Family Member of a Union Citizen (also known as an EU Treaty Rights application). Applications may take up to 6 months to process.

Ireland Family visas have a longer processing time to allow a more in-depth, case-by-case assessment of each application. Your visa may be delayed if all of the required information or documents have not been received.

Non-Swiss or non-European Economic Area citizens will need to obtain an Employment Permit and or a Work visa to enable them to work in Ireland.

Depending on how long you wish to work in Ireland, the INIS offers multiple work visa options including the Atypical Working Scheme , a Van der Elst visa, a Short Stay ‘C’ Business visa and a Long Stay Employment ‘D’ visa.

Generally, you will receive a decision for these types of Work visas within approximately 8 weeks and can apply up to 90 days prior to your travel date.

If you plan to work in Ireland for longer than 90 days, you will need to obtain one of the 9 Work Permits from the Department of Jobs, Enterprise & Innovation (DJEI) before you apply for your Work visa. This is a separate government department from the INIS and follows a different processing system.

The Ireland Work Permit processing time varies depending on the type of application submitted and you can find the dates of the Work visa applications currently being processed on the DJEI website .

Do you wish to visit or stay in Ireland? Speak to us about the best route to obtain a visa. Contact Us

Ireland offers a Short Term ‘C’ (Study) visa and a Long Term Study visa , depending on how long you wish to study in Ireland.

You can apply for both Study visas 3 months before your date of travel and the Ireland Student visa processing time is approximately 8 weeks.

Whilst the approximate processing dates act as a guide, it does not guarantee that your application will be dealt with during this time frame.

Many factors can delay applications including:

• The time of year
• Increases in application volume
• Holiday periods
• Documentation requiring verification
• Incomplete applications
• Requiring additional information or documentation
• Personal circumstances such as criminal convictions

You should not book tickets for travel until you have received your visa decision.

We understand that applying for an Ireland visa can be a complicated and overwhelming process.

If you would like support and guidance about your Ireland visa application, IAS can help.

Whether you’re looking for advice about an Irish Work visa or want to join family in Ireland, our understanding, expert team is ready to assist you.

Our advisors are here to support and guide you through the various Ireland visa applications. Contact Us

Last modified on November 22nd, 2023 at 10:34 am

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Premium application service that ensures your visa application is submitted to meet your deadline.

Document Check Package

Document checking service that ensures your documents are sufficient to prove your eligibility.

The Advice Package

With our untimed Advice Session, our professional immigration experts will review your case and provide you with comprehensive advice, completely tailored to your needs and your situation.

The Application Package

With our Application Package, your dedicated caseworker will advise you on your application process and eligibility. Your advisor will then complete and submit your forms to the Department of Justice & Equality on your behalf.

The Fast Track Package

Our Fast-Track Application Package is a premium service for those who need to submit their application in time with their deadlines. Your case will become a top priority for our team and you will benefit from our highest-quality services.

The Document Check Package

Our Document Checking Package is a service for those who need to submit their application but choose to do so on their own but want help with ensuring their documents are in line with the requirements for the visa. Our immigration consultants will check your documents in this case.

We offer immigration advice sessions as face to face appointments at all of our UK offices, or via the phone. Learn more

Related pages for your continued reading.

Short stay 'c' visas, long stay ‘d’ visas, study visa application, (join family) long stay d visa, irish citizenship application, tourist visa application, how do i know if my visa is approved.

The Dublin visa office publishes a list of application numbers and the decision on the Irish Department of Justice website every Tuesday.

Weekly decision reports may also be found on the Irish Embassy websites in Abu Dhabi, Abuja, Ankara, Beijing, London, Moscow and New Deli.

You will also receive notification of the decision by letter or email and be informed of the next steps.

What If I Need a Visa Urgently?

Ireland visa applications are generally processed chronologically, by the date they are received.

However, if your application is time-sensitive such as visiting a family member who has been hospitalised and is in a life-threatening situation or you are visiting Ireland due to a bereavement, your visa application may be expedited.

In this instance, you should email [email protected] , stating “EMERGENCY TRAVEL REQUIRED” in the subject line and your visa application number.

A member of the Customer Service Team will then request supporting documentation to verify your situation and, where necessary, facilitate priority processing.

What Are the Most Common Reasons for Ireland Visas to Be Declined?

The reasons for Ireland visas getting declined vary depending on the visa applied for and your personal circumstances.

Some of the most common reasons include:

• Incorrect or incomplete documents
• Incorrect visa type applied for
• Invalid passport
• Non-payment of application fees and/or associated costs
• Not providing biometrics
• Insufficient evidence supporting your application
• Previous breaches of Irish or UK immigration law
• Suspected misrepresentation or fraud
• Criminal convictions

What Happens If My Visa Is Declined?

If your visa is declined, you will receive a letter of refusal explaining the reason for the decision.

You can usually appeal your Ireland visa application refusal in writing within 2 months of the date on your letter without paying an additional fee. However, if you were found to have provided misleading or false information in your original application, you may not be permitted to appeal the decision and unable to reapply for an Irish visa for up to 5 years.

Late appeal applications are not accepted, but you will be able to submit a new visa application. You can appeal your application decision once and appeals received by email or fax will not be processed.

Visa applications are dealt with in the date order they are received by the Dublin visa office, however, can take longer to process as they undergo a more detailed assessment. You can find the current appeal processing times for appeals being processed on the Irish Department of Justice website .

Generally, the visa appeal processing time is approximately 6 to 8 weeks from receipt of all the necessary information.

Immigration Advice Service in Ireland is operating exclusively as an immigration consultancy and not as a law firm in Ireland.

Embassy of Ireland, UAE

Please be advised that the Embassy of Ireland, United Arab Emirates  website has moved and this page is no longer being updated. The Weekly Visa Decision Report is now available at  Ireland.ie/abudhabi .

Visa Processing Times and Weekly Decision Reports

Visa Processing Times

Visa applications are processed strictly in the order they are received. The minimum processing times depend on the type of visa you are applying for.

The current target processing times for complete visa applications submitted to the Irish Visa Office, Abu Dhabi are as follows:

• Where you are applying for a visa to reside in Ireland, you are advised not to cancel your current residence permit before a decision on your application has been made. This applies particularly to Join Family applications
• Processing times can change during the year, e.g. before holiday periods. You are advised  not  to pay for a travel ticket before you receive a decision on your visa
• Incomplete applications may not be accepted or may result in a visa refusal
• The onus is on you, the applicant, to ensure that your fully complete application is submitted in sufficient time for a decision to be made before your date of travel

Your application may also take longer than advertised:

• If you have not submitted the necessary supporting documentation
• If your supporting documentation needs to be verified
• Because of personal circumstances, e.g. you have a criminal conviction

Weekly Decision Report

Every Friday afternoon a report detailing all visa decisions made during the reference period, by the Abu Dhabi visa office, is posted below.

To search for your decision, open a report, press Ctrl + F and enter your eight digit visa application reference number.

Abu Dhabi Visa Decisions 08 December to 15 December 2023 08 December to 15 December 2023

Abu Dhabi Visa Decisions 01 December to 08 December 2023

Abu Dhabi Visa Decisions 24 November to 30 November 2023

Abu Dhabi Visa Decisions 17 November to 24 November 2023

Related Links:

Irish Embassies Abroad

Embassies in Ireland

Assistance abroad

Travel Advice

Citizens' Registration

Top Passport Questions

Embassy of Ireland, Great Britain

Please be advised that the Embassy of Ireland, Great Britain website has moved and this page is no longer being updated. The Embassy website is now available at  Ireland.ie/london .

Visa Information

Update 30/10/2023 - Christmas & New Year Travel

**Christmas & New Year Travel**

Please note that the Visa Office cannot guarantee that any Visit Visa application made at a Visa Application Centre (operated by VFS) later than the 17/11/23 will be processed in time for travel by 22/12/23. Those seeking to travel earlier than 22/12/23 should tailor their submission time accordingly.

Similarly, postal applicants from Northern Ireland, IoM and the Channel Islands should send their applications by tracked post on or before 17/11/23 to meet a travel date of 22/12/23.

Update 2nd March 2023 .

Please note that, on a temporary basis, VFS can only facilitate ‘walk-in’ customers at their Visa Application Centres (VACs) in London, Birmingham, Manchester, Cardiff & Edinburgh, between 08.30 am to 11.00am. It is not possible to make reserved appointment on-line.

Update 30th November 2022.

We are pleased to advise that the Visa Office at the Embassy of Ireland, London, can now facilitate Irish Working Holiday Authorisation (WHA) applications for New Zealand citizens who are currently in the UK, on the same basis as for Australian citizens.

Further information can be found  here .

Visas for Ireland

Please note that it is only permitted to apply for an Irish visa to the Embassy of Ireland in London if you are legally resident in the UK. Those in the UK on temporary visas (e.g. tourism) cannot apply for an Irish visa through this Embassy. Applicants for Irish visas worldwide must do so from their country of ordinary residence, in advance of travel, and in accordance with the arrangements in place for visa applications for that country.

As such, this page contains information for permanent residents of the UK who may require a visa to travel to Ireland. Please be aware that possession of a residence permission in the UK has no bearing on the requirement for a visa to travel to Ireland.

Ireland is not a member of the Schengen Area. An Irish visa does not permit travel to the Schengen Area, nor does a visa issued by a country in the Schengen Area allow for travel to Ireland.

The Visa Office at the Embassy of Ireland caters for visa required non-EEA citizens who wish to visit Ireland, not for Irish citizens who may require visas to travel internationally. Irish citizens who wish to ascertain if they need a visa for a third country can find information  here .

Australian & New Zealand Citizens who wish to avail of a Working Holiday Authorisation (WHA) in Ireland can find information  here .

Who needs a visa

You need to check if you need an Irish visa on the  website of the Irish Immigration Service .

Please note that Ireland is not party to the Schengen Agreement, and a Schengen visa or residence permit does  not  entitle you to travel to Ireland without a visa.

Unless you qualify for the  short stay visa waiver programme or have a visa issued as part of the British Irish Visa Scheme (BIVS) , a valid UK visa does  not  entitle you to travel to Ireland without a visa.

How To Apply

You should apply for a visa in good time before you travel. You are advised  not  to pay for a travel ticket before you receive a decision on your visa.

Submitting your application

1. Complete the  online application form . 2. Refer to the checklists available in the 'Types of Visa and Documentation' section of this website and gather your supporting documentation 3. Submit your signed application form and supporting documents to the appropriate office

If you live in England, Scotland or Wales you need to submit your application by attending VFS Global in person at one of the following Irish Visa Application Centres. It is not possible to make an appointment on-line at present. Please attend in person, without an appointment, from 08.30 to 11.00am, at the Irish Visa Application Centre of your choice.   

If you live in  Northern Ireland , the  Channel Islands  or the  Isle of Man,  you should submit your application by sending a tracked post envelope to the following address:

Visa Office,

Ground Floor,

114A Cromwell Road,

You should ensure that you note the tracking number of the envelope used to send your documents to this office.

4. Decisions will be made on applications in date order from the date received in the Embassy of Ireland Visa Office. Due to the volume of applications received it is not possible to provide an update on individual applications. However, we do publish target processing time information under the visa processing times category. We also publish a  Weekly Decision Report  so you can check if a decision has been made on your application.

Please Note

All supporting documentation should be in English or accompanied by a notarised translation . Failure to translate your documents into English may result in your visa application being refused. It is not sufficient to send in copies of your documents. All documentation submitted must be original and verifiable (e.g.) employment/study details, accommodation bookings must have correct contact details on each document. If this Office is unable to verify the information supplied this may result in your visa being refused.

Remember…

The onus is on you, the applicant, to ensure that your application is fully complete before submitting it for consideration.  You should note that if you submit an incomplete application, it may result in your application being refused.

 If you have been refused a visa for any country, details of this must be given in your application. Submit a copy of the visa decision letter issued to you by the authorities of that country, including a notarised translation if not in English.  Concealment or non-submission of previous visa refusals will result in your Irish visa application being refused.

Please note that if you provide false, fraudulent or misleading information or documentation, your application will be refused. You may also lose the right to appeal the decision. Any future applications made by you may also be refused, or you may be prevented from making further Irish Visa applications for up to 5 years.

If deemed necessary, additional documentation / information may be requested by the Deciding Officer upon detailed examination of the application.

If you submit false or misleading information in support of your application, you may become liable for prosecution and/or deportation.

Types of Visa and Documentation

The following  checklists  outline the requirements of the most common types of visa applications

• Visit Visa  
• ‌ Business Visa ‌
• Conference Visa
• Exam or Interview Visa
• Performance Visa
• Employment Visa  
• Join Spouse (Employment Permit)
• Student Information
• Join Family Information

Further information on travelling to Ireland on a short or long term basis, and the documentation involved, can be found on the  website of the Irish Immigration Service .

Payment Details and Fees

Visa Application Fees

Some applicants are required to pay a visa application fee, while others are exempt. Please refer  here  for information.

If you are resident in the UK and you are a national of a country included in the Irish Visa Waiver Programme you require a separate Irish visa but you are not required to pay an application fee. Details of the countries included in the programme can be found  here .

For those applicants required to pay a fee, the following amounts are currently applied by the Visa Office in London:.

Visa fees are paid in local currency – i.e. pounds sterling. Fees may vary from time to time to take account of currency changes

If you live in England, Scotland or Wales payment for your application will be taken by VFS Global at the Irish Visa Application Centre when you submit your application.

If you live in Northern Ireland, Channel Islands or the Isle of Man payment for your application submitted by post should be made by including a postal order or bank draft with your application. Personal cheques are not accepted. Postal orders and bank drafts should be made payable to 'the Embassy of Ireland' for the appropriate amount.

The visa fee is an administration fee which covers the cost of processing your application.  This fee cannot be refunded if your application is refused or withdrawn.

VFS Global Fees

VFS Global is a commercial company who facilitate visa applicants in making their visa applications to the Irish Visa Office. VFS Global manages the Visa Application Centres (VACs) on behalf of the Embassy of Ireland, where applicants in England, Scotland & Wales should submit their completed visa application form, supporting documents and biometric data. 

Whether or not an applicant is exempt from paying a visa application fee, VFS Global will levy a service fee for the submission of an application at a VAC. VFS also provide a range of additional services which an applicant may choose to avail of in making their application.

Your visa application will be processed and decided by Embassy of Ireland staff. VFS Global and its staff do not play any part in, or influence, the outcome of your visa application. VFS Global can only provide services to ensure that your visa application is correctly submitted.

Processing Times

Check our visa processing times.

Visa Appeals

If your application has been refused, you will be sent a letter outlining the reasons for refusal.

If you still wish to travel to Ireland, you can appeal this decision within two months of receiving the refusal notice.

Further information on appealing visa decisions can be found on the  website of the Irish Immigration Service .

On Arrival in Ireland

Further information on what to expect on arrival in Ireland can be found on the website of the  Irish Immigration Service.

Prior Visa Refusals

I understand that any false or misleading information , or false supporting documentation may result in the refusal of my application may be refused and I may be prevented from making further visa applications for a period of up to 5 years. An appeal, against the decision to refuse to grant the visa sought, may not be permitted.

The Embassy applies a zero tolerance policy with respect to fraudulent applications. An application containing a deception such as a forged document, a document containing false information or information withheld from an application (such as a previous visa refusal) may result in your application being refused without the prospect of appeal. If the application was submitted as part of a group, all applications in that group maybe refused without appeal. Where applications are rejected on the grounds of a deception, a 5-year ban may also be applied.

Related Links:

Irish Embassies Abroad

Embassies in Ireland

Assistance abroad

Travel Advice

Citizens' Registration

Top Passport Questions

New asylum-seeker accommodation agency is under consideration

State expects 13,000-16,000 asylum seekers a year, a fourfold increase on previous estimates.

Minister for Integration Roderic O'Gorman: His department paid more than €53 million to the owner of Dublin’s Citywest hotel last year to accommodate asylum seekers and Ukrainian refugees. Photograph: Tom Honan

The Government is to begin work on the feasibility of setting up a dedicated agency to handle migrant accommodation.

A scoping exercise was undertaken last year, and in a note prepared for Cabinet last week, Ministers were told “work is now beginning to examine the feasibility of establishing such a migration accommodation agency”.

Any proposals would need full government approval before proceeding.

[  Long-awaited immigration plan will commit to avoiding use of ‘last hotel’ in a town for asylum seekers  ]

The Government now believes it will have to deal with between 13,000 and 16,000 asylum seekers coming to Ireland annually, four times what it had planned for in a previous strategy to dismantle the direct provision system.

Number of homeless asylum seekers in State rises to 1,620

Strategy to resolve divisive asylum seeker problem shy of joined-up Coalition thinking

Government has quietly shelved its plan to end direct provision

The influx of refugees from the war in Ukraine and people seeking international protection has put major pressure on the Department of Integration, which has been forced to devise policy and also find tens of thousands of beds while managing contracts with hundreds of different accommodation operators, as well as trying to secure community acceptance.

[  State to spend €5bn housing asylum seekers over next 20 years, Ministers told  ]

Introducing an agency could form part of moving to a new operating model, with the Cabinet last week approving a new strategy that will seek to move away from reliance on the private sector.

The department said it was “considering options around the future operating model” for accommodating migrants, but cautioned that no decision had been taken on whether an agency would be established, saying that any further steps would be subject to a full government decision.

“This work is in its early stages and no decisions around direction of travel have been made as yet, including the establishment of a dedicated migration accommodation agency.”

Under plans brought to the Government last week by Minister for Integration Roderic O’Gorman, the Government committed to build out a core accommodation offering of 14,000 beds in State-owned facilities by 2028.

It comes as new figures from the department reveal that it paid more than €53 million to the owner of Dublin’s Citywest hotel last year to accommodate asylum seekers and Ukrainian refugees.

Cape Wrath Hotel Unlimited, which is owned by investment group Tetrarch Capital and runs the 764-bed Citywest hotel and convention centre in Saggart, Co Dublin, received €53.7 million in payments in 2023 to provide board and accommodation to international protection applicants and Ukrainian refugees.

[  Surge in prosecutions of asylum seekers arriving without passports  ]

The latest Department of Integration quarterly purchase orders figures, covering all of last year, reveal large hotel groups and companies were paid tens of millions of euro in Government contracts to provide accommodation for people seeking asylum and Ukrainian beneficiaries of temporary protection.

A department spokesperson said that a total of €1.49 billion was spent last year on accommodation for those fleeing the war in Ukraine and a further €640 million on accommodation for international protection applicants.

More than 28,100 international protection applicants are currently living in State-provided accommodation, while the State is also accommodating 74,500 Ukrainians.

Ministers were also told last week that €5 billion would be spent accommodating asylum seekers in State-owned properties in the coming decades – although this would be significantly cheaper than sourcing beds in the private sector.

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Jack Horgan-Jones

Jack Horgan-Jones is a Political Correspondent with The Irish Times

Sorcha Pollak

Sorcha Pollak is an Irish Times reporter and cohost of the In the News podcast

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