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.
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.
When applying for your study visa, you will also need to prove your English ability to a basic level as some course 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:
Further details can be found on the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Services website.
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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