Ireland is a popular destination for international students looking to study abroad due to its high-ranking universities and low education costs compared to the UK. If you wish to study here, though, Ireland has its own set of policies when applying for a student visa.
International students require a study visa depending on the degrees and courses they wish to pursue and in accordance with the Visa Policy for Non-EEA students by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Services. The visa, in most cases, may be applied for up to three months before the date of travel to Ireland.
Ireland has its own set of policies when applying for a student visa and it is essential that you consult the official website of the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) or the Irish embassy or consulate in your home country for the most up-to-date information.
International students require a study visa depending on the degrees and courses they wish to pursue and in accordance with the Visa Policy for Non-EEA students by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Services. The visa, in most cases, may be applied for up to three months before the date of travel to Ireland.
International students who are enrolled on a course that lasts less than three months must apply for a ‘C-Study Visa’. However, international students undertaking full-time courses on the Interim List of Eligible Programmes are required to obtain a ‘D-Study Visa’ to enter Ireland.
Short stay ‘C’ Study Visa for entry into Ireland (less than 90 days)
Long Stay ‘D’ Study visa for entry into Ireland (more than 90 days)
Student Visa applications can be submitted online by completing the online application process following the instructions for submission provided on the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Services website. The application also requires Biometric information.
Visa applicants are required to pay the visa fees in addition to charges for the submission of documents. The visa fee may be paid in local currency.
A single-entry visa fee is €60, and a multiple-entry visa fee is €100.
When applying for your study visa, you will also need to prove your English ability to a basic level as some courses and visa offers are dependent on reaching a required level. Valid international certificates include IELTS and TOEFL.
The supporting documentation required when applying for a Student Visa in Ireland includes the following:
Letter of acceptance from a recognised university confirming your candidature for a full-time course
English language certification depicting a student’s ability to pursue a course in English
Receipt for payment of course fee
Evidence such as Bank statements to show access to enough funds to maintain through the initial years
Private medical insurance
A commitment letter to leave Ireland after the expiry of the Student Visa
Certificates for all academic qualifications as required by the university
Two recent coloured passport-sized photographs
A signed application letter with full contact details
Evidence for explaining any gaps in the educational history of the candidate.
Current passport and copies of previous passports
Further details can be found on the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Services website.
Non-EEA students need to register with the local immigration office in the district they are living in for more than 3 months
Non-EEA students are allowed to work part-time for a maximum of 20 hours per week during semester time and up to a maximum of 40 hours during the vacation period
After graduating from an Irish university, international students have several options to explore if they wish to remain in Ireland.
Through the Third Level Graduate Programme, non-European Economic Area (EEA) international students who have completed their education with a Level 8 or above degree from an Irish university can stay back in the country to seek employment and gain work experience. They can stay for up to 24 months after a bachelor's and master's degree, and PhD graduates can live up to 36 months after their studies are over.
International students can also study further if they wish. Additionally, someone with an entrepreneurial spirit can even explore starting their own business in Ireland. The Irish government offers various supports and incentives for entrepreneurs, such as the Start-up Entrepreneur Program, which provides a pathway for non-EEA nationals to establish a business and reside in Ireland.
Do you need to apply for a Study Visa in Ireland? Experienced visa consultants at SI-Ireland can assist you with the visa application process using our Visa Service. Arrange a free consultation today to learn more.
SI-Ireland specialises in selecting the right Irish university for international students by reviewing your academic background, discussing your career goals and helping you apply. Our application services can help you achieve your dream of studying in Ireland.
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