Application Procedure?
Type of Visa
• 'C type study visa' – for any study programme/course that lasts less than three months.
• 'D type study visa' – if you applied for a course that lasts longer than three months When and where to apply for the study visa in Ireland?
You can apply for a study visa up to three months before your date of arrival to Ireland.
To apply, you must simply complete an online application form on the website of the Irish Naturalization and Immigration Service.
After filling the online application process, follow the instructions and submit your supporting documentation.
You may be required to provide your Biometrics information as part of the application process.
The processing time is variable, depending on the country you submit your application. Usually, you will get an answer in between four to eight weeks from the date on which your application is lodged at the Visa Office/Embassy/Consulate.
It is best not to buy travel tickets until you receive an official answer from the Irish consulate. International students must meet minimum English language requirements in order to be granted a student immigration permission.
Accepted English exams are:
• IELTS.
• TOEFL.
• PTE (Pearson test).
Documents required for the student visa in Ireland:
• Two recent colour passport sized photographs.
• Passport and a full copy of any previous passports.
• A signed letter of application including your full contact details (stating the reason you want to come to Ireland).
• Letter of Acceptance from the college/university.
• Evidence accounting for any gaps in your educational history.
• Proof of payment of the registration and tuition fees.
• Copies of all academic qualifications, exam results required for university study.
• English language proficiency certificate.
• Proof you have sufficient funds to support your stay in Ireland without recourse to public funds, or the reliance on casual employment.
• Medical Insurance.
• Commitment to leave Ireland on the expiry of your visa.
The estimated costs of living in Ireland for a student during one academic year is 7,000 EUR. Non-EEA students who are studying for a period of fewer than 6 months are required to prove that they are able to support living costs of 500 EUR/month. Conditions to apply for a residence permit If you enrolled for a study degree that lasts longer than three months, you will need to register at the local Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) as soon as you arrive in Ireland.
You will have to submit documents such as:
• passport.
• four recent passport-size photographs.
• documentation regarding your entry into Ireland (e.g. evidence of funds, or confirmation of enrolment on a recognized course).
The residence permit allows you to stay in the country for up to 12 months and will receive a Certificate of Registration (known as a Green Book), which must be renewed before it expires.