Visa requirements

Ireland

General visa requirements for travelling to Ireland. These policies apply to all nationalities unless a country-specific policy exists.

Have a specific passport country? Check your specific route.

Tourist visa (Visa-Free Short Stay (Common Travel Area))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Visa free

Maximum stay: 365 days
Processing time: N/A - no visa required
Fee: Free
Validity: Unlimited under CTA
Entry: Multiple entry

Ireland operates the Common Travel Area (CTA) with the United Kingdom, the Isle of Man, Jersey, and Guernsey. British and Irish citizens have full freedom of movement, right to work, and right to reside across the CTA, established in 1923. No passport control is required for CTA travel, though carriers may require photo ID. British citizens do not need to register with immigration and have no maximum stay limit.

Eligibility

Nationality
Must be a British citizen or citizen of the Crown Dependencies (Isle of Man, Jersey, Guernsey).

Eligible countries: Guernsey, Isle of Man, Jersey, United Kingdom

Tourist visa (Visa-Free Short Stay (EU/EEA/Swiss Nationals))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Visa free

Maximum stay: 365 days
Processing time: N/A - no visa required
Fee: Free
Validity: Unlimited under EU free movement
Entry: Multiple entry

EU/EEA and Swiss nationals enjoy freedom of movement to Ireland under EU law. They do not need a visa or immigration permission and may live and work freely in Ireland. Although Ireland is not in the Schengen Area, EU free movement rights still apply. Maximum stay is unlimited. A valid passport or national identity card is required for entry.

Eligibility

Nationality
Must be a citizen of an EU member state, EEA country (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway), or Switzerland.

Eligible countries: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 6

Tourist visa (Visa-Free Short Stay (Non-EEA Visa-Exempt Nationals))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Visa free

Maximum stay: 90 days
Processing time: N/A - no visa required
Fee: Free
Validity: 90 days from date of entry
Entry: Multiple entry

Citizens of these countries do not require a visa to enter Ireland for short stays of up to 90 days. However, they still require permission from an immigration officer at the border to enter. Ireland is NOT in the Schengen Area, so a Schengen visa does not grant entry to Ireland. Visitors cannot extend their stay beyond 90 days on a short stay. Recent removals: Bolivia (Sep 2023), Dominica/Honduras/Vanuatu (Mar 2024), Botswana/South Africa (Jul 2024), Eswatini/Lesotho/Nauru (Mar 2025), Trinidad and Tobago (May 2025). Tonga (TO) is listed based on the current schedule; verify with Irish immigration.

Eligibility

Nationality
Must be a citizen of one of the visa-exempt countries listed in Irish immigration regulations (S.I. 345 of 2011, as amended).

Eligible countries: Andorra, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Fiji, Grenada, Guatemala, Guyana, Hong Kong, Israel, Japan, Kiribati, Korea (Republic of), Macao, Malaysia, Maldives, Mexico, Monaco, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Samoa, San Marino, Seychelles, Singapore, Solomon Islands, Taiwan, Province of China, Togo, Tonga, Tuvalu, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United States of America, Uruguay
Purpose of visit
Visit must be for tourism, visiting family or friends, or short-term business purposes. Cannot take up employment.
Includes
- Tourism
- visiting family/friends
- short-term business
Criminal record
Immigration officer may refuse entry to persons with criminal convictions or who are deemed a threat to public order.

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 6
Accommodation proof
Provide hotel booking, tenancy evidence or host details that cover the planned stay.

Must cover full stay: No

How to apply

Document gathering
Gather valid passport, proof of accommodation, return/onward ticket, and proof of sufficient funds.

Transit visa (Transit Visa)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 1 days
Processing time: Up to 8 weeks
Fee: EUR 25
Validity: Single transit
Entry: Single entry

A transit visa is required for nationals of specific countries who wish to pass through an Irish airport or seaport to travel to another state on a connecting flight. A transit visa does NOT permit you to leave the port or airport. Both the arrival and onward connecting flights must be in the same terminal between 04:00 and 16:00 on the same day; otherwise, you will need a regular entry visa. Ethiopian citizens do NOT need a transit visa if travelling on an Ethiopian passport directly from Ethiopia via Ireland to the USA or Canada with a valid US/Canadian visa. As of 2025, the transit visa required list also includes several South American countries for transit purposes.

Eligibility

Nationality
Only required for citizens of specific transit-visa-required countries: Afghanistan, Albania, Cuba, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Georgia, Ghana, Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, Moldova, Nigeria, Somalia, Sri Lanka, and Zimbabwe.

Eligible countries: Afghanistan, Albania, Congo (Democratic Republic of the), Cuba, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Georgia, Ghana, Iran (Islamic Republic of), Iraq, Lebanon, Moldova (Republic of), Nigeria, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe
Purpose of visit
Must be transiting through an Irish airport to a third country. Cannot leave the airport/port.
Includes
- Transit to third country

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 6
Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.

Must be confirmed: No; Must show return: No
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Online payment; Amount: EUR 25

How to apply

Online application
Apply online via AVATS selecting 'Transit' as the visa category.
Document gathering
Gather passport, confirmed onward flight booking, and visa for the destination country if required.
Fee payment
Pay EUR 25 transit visa fee.
Document submission
Submit documents to the visa office.
Processing wait
Wait up to 8 weeks for processing.

Work / Immigration visa (Working Holiday Authorisation)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 365 days
Processing time: Applications open annually (typically November for the following year). First 400 eligible applications are processed.
Fee: Free (no application fee)
Validity: 12 months (24 months for Canadian citizens)
Entry: Single entry

Ireland has Working Holiday agreements with 10 countries: Argentina, Australia, Canada, Chile, Hong Kong, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, Taiwan, and the USA. Each agreement has different conditions. Canadian citizens may stay up to 24 months. Australian citizens can work a maximum of 6 months with any one employer. Hong Kong citizens can work a maximum of 3 months with any one employer. US citizens must be enrolled in full-time post-secondary education or have graduated within the last 12 months. Japanese citizens aged 18-25 (extendable to 30 if in full-time education/employment). Applications typically open in November for the following year. This is a one-time-only programme; applicants cannot re-apply.

Eligibility

Nationality
Must be a citizen of Argentina, Australia, Canada, Chile, Hong Kong, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, Taiwan, or the USA.

Eligible countries: Argentina, Australia, Canada, Chile, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea (Republic of), New Zealand, Taiwan, Province of China, United States of America
Age
Generally 18-30 years old. Exceptions: Argentine, Australian, and Canadian citizens may apply up to age 35. Japanese citizens 18-25 (extendable to 30). US citizens must be 18+ with no upper age limit but must be current students or recent graduates.

Max age: 35; Min age: 18
Purpose of visit
Must be first-time participant in the Ireland Working Holiday programme. Primary purpose should be a holiday with incidental employment.
Includes
- Holiday with incidental employment

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 6
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

How to apply

Online application
Complete and submit the WHAA1 application form during the annual application window (typically opens November).
Document gathering
Gather valid passport, proof of health insurance, proof of funds, and any country-specific documents (e.g., proof of enrollment for US citizens).
Document submission
Submit application and supporting documents. First 400 eligible applications per year are accepted.
Processing wait
Wait for authorisation decision. Successful applicants receive a Working Holiday Authorisation letter.
Visa collection
Travel to Ireland with the authorisation letter. Register with immigration after arrival to obtain IRP card.

Diplomatic visa (Diplomatic and Official Visa)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Visa free

Maximum stay: 90 days
Processing time: Varies by diplomatic channel
Fee: Free (exempt from visa fees)
Validity: Duration of diplomatic assignment or 90 days for official visits
Entry: Multiple entry

Holders of diplomatic, service, and official passports from certain visa-required countries are exempt from visa requirements when travelling to Ireland in an official capacity. Countries with diplomatic passport visa exemptions include China, Colombia, Georgia, Indonesia, Kuwait, Moldova, Montenegro, Peru, Qatar, South Africa, and Turkey. All other diplomatic passport holders from visa-required countries must apply through diplomatic channels. Accredited diplomatic agents and their families enjoy privileges and immunities under the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations (VCDR). Diplomatic staff must hold diplomatic passports; administrative and technical staff must hold diplomatic or service/official passports.

Eligibility

Nationality
Diplomatic passport holders from China, Colombia, Georgia, Indonesia, Kuwait, Moldova, Montenegro, Peru, Qatar, South Africa, and Turkey are exempt from visa requirements. Other diplomatic passport holders from visa-required countries should apply through their embassy.

Eligible countries: China, Colombia, Georgia, Indonesia, Kuwait, Moldova (Republic of), Montenegro, Peru, Qatar, South Africa, Turkey
Purpose of visit
Must be travelling in an official diplomatic or governmental capacity.
Includes
- Official diplomatic duties

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 6

How to apply

Document gathering
Prepare diplomatic/official passport and note verbale from the sending state's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Document submission
For accredited diplomats: Submit notification of arrival and application for identity card through the Protocol Section of Ireland's Department of Foreign Affairs.

Journalist visa (Short Stay C Journalist/Media Visa)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 90 days
Processing time: 6-8 weeks
Fee: EUR 60 single entry / EUR 100 multiple entry
Validity: Up to 90 days
Entry: Single entry

Foreign journalists and media professionals from visa-required countries who wish to cover events, conduct interviews, or perform short-term media work in Ireland require a Short Stay C visa. This falls under the business/short-stay category. Visa-exempt nationals can enter Ireland for short-term journalist activities without a specific journalist visa. For long-term media assignments, a different immigration permission may be required.

Eligibility

Nationality
Citizens of visa-required countries working as journalists or media professionals.
Purpose of visit
Must be travelling for journalistic purposes: covering events, conducting interviews, filming, or reporting.
Includes
- Journalistic activities
Employment
Must be employed by or contracted to a bona fide media organisation.

Required status: Media employment

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 6
Photo
Count: 2; Specifications: 35x45mm, white background
Employment letter
Provide a signed employer letter confirming your role, leave dates, salary and return to work.

Must include leave approval: No; Must include position: No; Must include salary: No
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.
Cover letter
Explain the purpose of travel, travel dates, who will pay, and why you will leave before the visa or permission expires.
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Online payment; Amount: EUR 60 / EUR 100

How to apply

Online application
Apply via AVATS selecting appropriate business/short-stay category.
Document gathering
Gather passport, photos, media organisation letter, press credentials, event invitation/accreditation if applicable.
Fee payment
Pay EUR 60 (single entry) or EUR 100 (multiple entry).
Document submission
Submit documents to visa office or VFS centre.
Processing wait
Wait 6-8 weeks for processing.
Visa collection
Collect passport with visa.

Work / Immigration visa (Stamp 4 Permission (Post-Employment Permit))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 730 days
Processing time: Varies, typically 4-8 weeks
Fee: EUR 300 IRP registration
Validity: 2 years, renewable. Leads to eligibility for long-term residency.
Entry: Multiple entry

Stamp 4 is an immigration permission allowing the holder to work in Ireland without an employment permit, start a business, and access state services. It is issued to: Critical Skills Employment Permit holders after 2 years; General Employment Permit holders after 57 months; spouses of Irish citizens; refugees and subsidiary protection holders; persons with Irish Born Child residency; and researchers with hosting agreements after 2 years. Stamp 4 holders have unrestricted access to the Irish labour market. This is not a visa per se but an immigration permission/status granted in Ireland.

Eligibility

Nationality
Non-EEA nationals who have held a qualifying immigration permission in Ireland (Critical Skills Employment Permit for 2 years, General Employment Permit for 57 months, or other qualifying status).
Employment
Must have completed the required period on a qualifying employment permit or hold another qualifying status (refugee, spouse of Irish citizen, etc.).

Required status: Qualifying employment permit or status
Criminal record
Must be of good character, free of criminal charges or convictions in any jurisdiction.

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 6
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Cash/card at registration office; Amount: EUR 300

How to apply

Document gathering
Gather passport, current IRP card, evidence of qualifying employment period (payslips, P60s, employment permit), and any other supporting documents.
Online application
Submit application for Stamp 4 permission to Immigration Service Delivery.
Processing wait
Wait for decision on Stamp 4 application (typically 4-8 weeks).
Appointment booking
Book appointment at the Registration Office to register new immigration permission.
Fee payment
Pay EUR 300 IRP registration fee at the registration appointment.

Business visa (Short Stay C Business Visa)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 90 days
Processing time: 8 weeks
Fee: EUR 60 single entry / EUR 100 multiple entry
Validity: Up to 90 days
Entry: Single entry

The Short Stay Business Visa allows visa-required nationals to travel to Ireland for up to 90 days for business-related activities. Holders may work for up to 14 days subject to specific conditions. This visa is for attending meetings, conferences, trade fairs, negotiations, or short-term business activities. It does not permit long-term employment. Visa-exempt nationals can enter for business purposes without a visa.

Eligibility

Nationality
Citizens of visa-required countries who need to travel to Ireland for business purposes.
Purpose of visit
Must be attending business meetings, conferences, trade fairs, or undertaking short-term business activities. May work for up to 14 days under specific conditions.
Includes
- Business meetings
- conferences
- trade fairs
- negotiations
Financial
Must demonstrate sufficient funds for the duration of stay.

Minimum funds: As required for duration of stay

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 6
Photo
Count: 2; Specifications: 35x45mm, white background
Employment letter
Provide a signed employer letter confirming your role, leave dates, salary and return to work.

Must include leave approval: No; Must include position: No; Must include salary: No
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.
Cover letter
Explain the purpose of travel, travel dates, who will pay, and why you will leave before the visa or permission expires.
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Online payment; Amount: EUR 60 single entry / EUR 100 multiple entry

How to apply

Online application
Complete the online application on AVATS selecting 'Business' as the purpose of visit.
Document gathering
Gather passport, photos, bank statements, employer letter, invitation letter from Irish host, and cover letter.
Fee payment
Pay EUR 60 (single entry) or EUR 100 (multiple entry).
Document submission
Submit documents to visa office or VFS centre within 30 days of AVATS application.
Processing wait
Wait approximately 8 weeks for processing.
Visa collection
Collect passport with visa from the submission office.

Work / Immigration visa (Critical Skills Employment Permit (Stamp 1))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 730 days
Processing time: 5-6 weeks for employment permit. Additional 6-8 weeks for entry visa if visa-required.
Fee: EUR 1,000 employment permit + EUR 60 entry visa (if visa-required)
Validity: 2 years initially. After 2 years, eligible for Stamp 4 (open work permission with no permit required).
Entry: Single entry

The Critical Skills Employment Permit is for highly skilled occupations deemed critically important to Ireland's economy. From 1 March 2026, the minimum salary threshold increases from EUR 38,000 to EUR 40,904. For occupations with a salary of EUR 64,000+, a degree or equivalent experience is required. For the EUR 38,000-64,000 range, the role must be on the Critical Skills Occupations List AND the applicant must hold a degree or higher qualification. After 2 years, holders can apply for Stamp 4 permission allowing open access to the labour market without a permit. Family reunification is permitted immediately. Applications must be received at least 12 weeks before the proposed employment start date.

Eligibility

Nationality
All non-EEA nationals. Must have a job offer from an Irish employer.
Employment
Job must be on the Critical Skills Occupations List (e.g., ICT professionals, engineers, scientists, healthcare professionals, finance professionals). Minimum salary EUR 38,000 (EUR 40,904 from March 2026) for listed occupations, or EUR 64,000+ for unlisted occupations.

Required status: Critical Skills occupation
Financial
Minimum annual salary of EUR 38,000 for occupations on the Critical Skills list (increasing to EUR 40,904 from 1 March 2026), or EUR 64,000+ for occupations not on the list.

Minimum funds: EUR 38,000 - EUR 64,000+

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 6
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Online payment; Amount: EUR 1,000 + EUR 60 visa
Curriculum vitae
Provide a current CV showing education, work history and relevant qualifications.
Work contract
Provide a signed job offer, contract or assignment letter showing the role, dates and employer.

Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: No

How to apply

Online application
Employer or employee applies online via the DETE Employment Permits Online System (EPOS) at least 12 weeks before the proposed start date.
Document gathering
Gather employment contract, qualifications/degree certificates, CV, passport copy, and employer registration details.
Fee payment
Pay EUR 1,000 employment permit fee.
Processing wait
Wait 5-6 weeks for employment permit decision.
Visa collection
Collect employment permit and visa. Travel to Ireland and register with immigration to obtain IRP card (EUR 300).

Medical visa (Short Stay C Medical Treatment Visa)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 90 days
Processing time: 6-8 weeks
Fee: EUR 60 single entry / EUR 100 multiple entry
Validity: Up to 90 days
Entry: Single entry

The Short Stay Medical Treatment Visa allows visa-required nationals to travel to Ireland for up to 90 days for a medical procedure at a private hospital. The medical procedure must not be available in the applicant's home country. The applicant must have a confirmed appointment with a private hospital in Ireland and must be able to pay for the treatment in full. A referral letter from a hospital in the home country is required. Visa-exempt nationals can enter for medical treatment without a visa.

Eligibility

Nationality
Citizens of visa-required countries seeking medical treatment in Ireland.
Purpose of visit
Must be seeking a specific medical procedure at a private hospital in Ireland that is not available in the applicant's home country.
Includes
- Medical treatment
Financial
Must demonstrate ability to pay for the full cost of medical treatment and living expenses during the stay.

Minimum funds: Full treatment cost + living expenses

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 6
Photo
Count: 2; Specifications: 35x45mm, white background
Medical certificate
Provide medical evidence from a recognised doctor or clinic when the route asks for health confirmation.
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.
Cover letter
Explain the purpose of travel, travel dates, who will pay, and why you will leave before the visa or permission expires.
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Online payment; Amount: EUR 60 / EUR 100

How to apply

Online application
Apply via AVATS selecting 'Medical Treatment' as the visa type.
Document gathering
Gather passport, photos, hospital referral letter, appointment confirmation from Irish hospital, bank statements, and cover letter.
Fee payment
Pay EUR 60 (single entry) or EUR 100 (multiple entry) visa fee.
Document submission
Submit documents to visa office or VFS centre within 30 days.
Processing wait
Wait 6-8 weeks for processing.
Visa collection
Collect passport with visa decision.

Work / Immigration visa (General Employment Permit (Stamp 1))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 730 days
Processing time: 4-8 weeks for employment permit
Fee: EUR 500 (6 months or less) or EUR 1,000 (6-24 months) + EUR 60 visa (if visa-required)
Validity: Up to 2 years, renewable. After 57 months (approx. 5 years), eligible for Stamp 4.
Entry: Single entry

The General Employment Permit covers most occupations not on the Ineligible List of Occupations. From 1 March 2026, the minimum annual salary increases from EUR 34,000 to EUR 36,605. The job must be advertised in Ireland/EEA for at least 28 days before applying (with DEASP/EURES and in national newspapers/online). After 57 months of continuous employment, holders can apply for Stamp 4. Family reunification is available after 12 months. The 50:50 rule applies: at least 50% of the employer's workforce must be EEA nationals at the time of application (exemptions may apply for start-ups).

Eligibility

Nationality
All non-EEA nationals with a qualifying job offer.
Employment
Job must NOT be on the Ineligible List of Occupations. Minimum annual salary of EUR 34,000 (EUR 36,605 from March 2026). Job must have been advertised for at least 28 days. At least 50% of employer's workforce must be EEA nationals.

Required status: Non-ineligible occupation
Financial
Minimum annual remuneration of EUR 34,000 (increasing to EUR 36,605 from 1 March 2026).

Minimum funds: EUR 34,000 (EUR 36,605 from March 2026)

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 6
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Online payment; Amount: EUR 500 / EUR 1,000 + EUR 60 visa
Curriculum vitae
Provide a current CV showing education, work history and relevant qualifications.
Work contract
Provide a signed job offer, contract or assignment letter showing the role, dates and employer.

Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: No

How to apply

Online application
Employer advertises the position for at least 28 days. Then apply via DETE EPOS online system.
Document gathering
Gather employment contract, CV, passport copy, proof of job advertisements, employer registration details.
Fee payment
Pay EUR 500 (6 months or less) or EUR 1,000 (6-24 months).
Processing wait
Wait 4-8 weeks for employment permit decision.
Visa collection
Travel to Ireland and register with immigration to obtain IRP card (EUR 300).

Tourist visa (Short Stay C Tourist Visa)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 90 days
Processing time: 6-8 weeks from receipt of documents
Fee: EUR 60 single entry / EUR 100 multiple entry
Validity: Up to 90 days
Entry: Single entry

Citizens of visa-required countries must apply for a Short Stay 'C' Visa before travelling to Ireland. Applications are made online through the AVATS (Application for Visa Appointments and Tracking System) and documents submitted to a visa office or VFS Global centre. The visa fee is non-refundable even if the application is refused. Applicants should not purchase travel tickets before receiving a decision. Applications should be submitted at least 3 months before intended travel.

Eligibility

Nationality
Citizens of visa-required countries as listed by the Irish Immigration Service. Includes most African, many Asian, and some South American and Caribbean nations.
Purpose of visit
Must be visiting for tourism, holiday, or sightseeing purposes. Cannot take up employment.
Includes
- Tourism
- holiday
- sightseeing
Financial
Must demonstrate sufficient funds for the duration of stay through 6 months of bank statements.

Minimum funds: As required for duration of stay
Visa history
Good visa and immigration history. Provide evidence of strong ties to home country (family, employment, property).

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 6
Photo
Count: 2; Specifications: 35x45mm, white background
Accommodation proof
Provide hotel booking, tenancy evidence or host details that cover the planned stay.

Must cover full stay: No
Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.

Must be confirmed: No; Must show return: No
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.
Cover letter
Explain the purpose of travel, travel dates, who will pay, and why you will leave before the visa or permission expires.
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Online payment, credit/debit card; Amount: EUR 60 single entry / EUR 100 multiple entry

How to apply

Online application
Create an account and complete the online visa application on AVATS (https://www.visas.inis.gov.ie/avats/). Print the summary application form.
Document gathering
Gather all required supporting documents including passport, photos, bank statements, accommodation proof, travel insurance, cover letter, and flight details.
Fee payment
Pay the visa application fee: EUR 60 for single entry or EUR 100 for multiple entry.
Document submission
Submit all documents to your nearest Irish embassy/consulate or VFS Global centre within 30 days of creating the AVATS application.
Biometrics
Biometrics may be required at certain visa application centres. Check with your local office.
Processing wait
Wait 6-8 weeks for processing. Applications may take longer during peak seasons (May-August).
Visa collection
Collect your passport with the visa decision from the office where you submitted your application.

Diplomatic visa (Diplomatic Visa (Visa-Required Countries))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 90 days
Processing time: Expedited processing through diplomatic channels
Fee: Free (exempt from visa fees)
Validity: 90 days for single entry, or duration of assignment
Entry: Multiple entry

Diplomatic passport holders from visa-required countries (excluding those with bilateral exemptions) must still obtain a visa before travelling to Ireland. However, they are exempt from visa fees. The visa is typically issued for 90 days single entry. Applications should be submitted through diplomatic channels (note verbale from Ministry of Foreign Affairs). Possession of a diplomatic passport alone does not confer diplomatic privileges and immunities.

Eligibility

Nationality
Diplomatic passport holders from visa-required countries that do not have a bilateral diplomatic visa exemption with Ireland.
Purpose of visit
Must be travelling in an official diplomatic or governmental capacity.
Includes
- Official diplomatic duties

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 6
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

How to apply

Document gathering
Prepare diplomatic passport, note verbale, and any supporting documents.
Document submission
Submit visa application through diplomatic channels or the nearest Irish embassy.
Processing wait
Expedited processing through diplomatic channels.
Visa collection
Collect visa through diplomatic channels.

Student visa (Long Stay D Student Visa (Stamp 2))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 365 days
Processing time: 4-8 weeks, longer during peak seasons (May-August)
Fee: EUR 60 single entry visa + EUR 300 IRP registration
Validity: Duration of course, renewable annually. Maximum 7 years for degree programmes.
Entry: Single entry

Non-EEA students who wish to study in Ireland for more than 90 days must register for Stamp 2 immigration permission. Visa-required nationals must also apply for a Long Stay D visa before travelling. Visa-exempt nationals (e.g., US, Canadian, Australian) can enter Ireland without a visa and register for Stamp 2 after arrival. Stamp 2 holders may work up to 20 hours per week during term and 40 hours per week during holidays (June-September and 15 December-15 January). The course must be on the Interim List of Eligible Programmes (ILEP) at NFQ Level 6 or higher.

Eligibility

Nationality
All non-EEA nationals. Visa-required nationals must obtain a Long Stay D visa before travel. Visa-exempt nationals can enter and register after arrival.
Age
Must be over 18 years of age.

Min age: 18
Financial
Must have access to at least EUR 10,000 for a one-year course. Must be able to pay tuition fees.

Minimum funds: EUR 10,000
Purpose of visit
Must be accepted onto a full-time course at an institution listed on the ILEP, at NFQ Level 6 or higher.
Includes
- Study at ILEP institution

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 6
Photo
Count: 2; Specifications: 35x45mm, white background
Accommodation proof
Provide hotel booking, tenancy evidence or host details that cover the planned stay.

Must cover full stay: No
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Online payment; Amount: EUR 60 visa + EUR 300 IRP
Proof of enrollment
Provide proof of enrolment or admission from the school, university or training provider.

Must be current: No; Must be original: No

How to apply

Online application
For visa-required nationals: Apply online via AVATS (https://www.visas.inis.gov.ie/avats/) selecting 'Study' as the purpose. Apply at least 3 months before intended travel date.
Document gathering
Gather passport, photos, letter of acceptance from ILEP-listed institution, proof of EUR 10,000 funds, bank statements, private health insurance, and accommodation proof.
Fee payment
Pay EUR 60 visa fee (visa-required nationals). Pay tuition fees to the institution as required.
Document submission
Submit all documents to the visa office or VFS centre within 30 days.
Processing wait
Wait 4-8 weeks for visa processing. Longer during peak season (May-August).
Visa collection
Collect passport with visa. Travel to Ireland and register with immigration within 90 days of arrival to obtain Stamp 2 and Irish Residence Permit (IRP) card (EUR 300 fee).

Apply for an e-Visa online (opens in new tab)

This information is provided for general guidance only. Visa requirements can change frequently and may vary by nationality. Always verify with the official embassy or consulate before making travel plans. Contact [email protected] for assistance.