Citizens of certain non EEA countries require a visa to pursue certain courses of study in Ireland. In order to apply for a student visa to study in Ireland you be required to enrol in a course of study which is recognised by the state (See the interim list of eligible courses for more information).
Applicants must apply online for a C type study visa. If the course lasts more than 3 months, you must apply for a D visa.
You will need to provide the following with your visa application:
- Letter of acceptance from a recognised school or college or university in Ireland confirming that you have been accepted on a course of study. This course of study must be full-time (lasting an academic year) and have a minimum of 15 hours per week study time.
- Evidence of your academic ability to pursue the chosen course through the English language (unless it is an English language course).
- Evidence that the fees for the course have been paid in full.
- Evidence that you have enough funds (€7,000) to maintain yourself for the initial part of your stay.
- Evidence that you or a sponsor have access to at least €7,000 for each subsequent year of your studies, in addition to the course fees for each of those years.
- Evidence that you have private medical insurance
- An explanation of any gaps in your educational history
- Confirmation that you intend to return to your country of permanent residence when you leave Ireland
Original documents are required and must be in English or accompanied by a notarised translation.
If you are from a non-EEA country which does not require a visa to enter the state, you should present at your local immigration office with your passport and all documentation relating to your course of study together with your passport. It is vital that you gave a letter of offer at the school or college with you at the date of attendance. Where no visa is required to enter the state, you must demonstrate proof that you have €3,000 to fund your time in the state.
If you are in the state on a Stamp 2 visa, you will be eligible to work for 20 hours per week during term time and 40 hours per week during college vacation periods. If you have a Stamp 2A visa, you are not entitled to work.
Please note:
Your entitlement to take up employment ceases when your permission to remain expires.
The visa issued to you allows you to enter the State once. If you wish to leave for a short while and then return you must apply for a re-entry visa.
