Ireland Student Visa Process: An Ultimate Guide
One of the main factors why students want to study in Ireland is its commitment to providing top-notch education. All international students outside the EU must obtain an Ireland student visa to attend universities in Ireland.
Your age, kind of study program, and duration of your studies will determine the type of Irish study visa you require. This blog will inform you about the Ireland student visa process, eligibility, and other requirements.
- Why Study in Ireland?
- Why Should You Apply For Ireland Student Visa?
- Ireland Student Visa Requirements
- Eligibility for Ireland Student Visa
- Ireland Student Visa Processing Time
- When Should You Apply For An Ireland Student Visa?
- Types of Student Visa in Ireland
- Ireland Student Visa Document Checklist
- How to Apply for an Ireland Student Visa?
- Ireland Student Visa Fees
- Interview for Ireland Student Visa
- Ireland Post Study Visa
- Conclusion
- FAQs
Why Study in Ireland?
Studying in Ireland can be a great experience. The universities are well-respected and offer resources to help you succeed. The Irish economy is doing well, so many jobs are available after graduation, especially in tech, medicine, and science. Ireland has a rich history of innovation and creativity, and you might be inspired to do something unique yourself! On top of that, Ireland is generally cheaper to live in than other places in Europe, and there are scholarships to help you with the costs.
Why Should You Apply For Ireland Student Visa?
An Irish study visa is a visa for studying in Ireland that does not necessitate the holder to become an Irish citizen. It is an additional endorsement included in an official government passport. It is available to all students studying at recognized educational institutions throughout Ireland. The student visa stands out from other visas (such as tourist or business visas) as it is specifically created for students.
An Irish study visa allows individuals to study in Ireland without becoming Irish citizens.
A few advantages of the student visa in Ireland include:
- Attend a prestigious university in Ireland with ease.
- Gain insights into the cutting-edge research and innovation in Ireland.
- Seize the opportunity to find fantastic job prospects and gain valuable industry experience.
- Stay in Ireland and attend classes for the designated period.
- Engage in part-time work for up to 20 hours per week during the semester or 40 hours per week during university breaks in Ireland.
Ireland Student Visa Requirements
When applying for an Ireland student visa, individuals must provide the required paperwork to support their stay in Ireland. A valid passport, evidence of English language skills, financial paperwork, and an acceptance letter are necessary for the application.
The documents should be submitted in English. If not, they must be notarized by a qualified translator. Furthermore, remember that all paperwork should be authentic and not duplicates unless specified. Now, you’ll learn how to apply for an Ireland visa for Indians.
Eligibility for Ireland Student Visa
Any international student enrolled in a reputed Irish university can apply for a student visa in Ireland. However, incomplete documents are not accepted at the visa office, and students must adhere to the Ireland student visa process. Since Ireland is an English-speaking country, you must prove your proficiency through tests like IELTS, TOEFL, and other similar exams.
Ireland Student Visa Processing Time
The average Ireland visa processing time may take approximately 4-8 weeks from the time of application. Nevertheless, students are strongly advised to submit their application at least three months before their planned journey. Applying early will improve your chances of getting approved and give you enough time to reapply if your visa is rejected.
Before submitting your application, it is important to review the checklist for the Ireland student visa to verify that you have all the necessary requirements. A lack of the proper supporting documents could significantly delay the process. Furthermore, ensure that all supporting documents are validated, especially criminal convictions, if applicable.
Also read – MBA in Ireland
When Should You Apply For An Ireland Student Visa?
To make your Ireland student visa process smooth, you should apply at an early stage before moving to Ireland. You should check the official site to learn about visa updates. After you get your admission letter, you should apply for the visa.
Applying early for the Ireland student visa will increase your chance of acceptance and give you enough time to reapply if the first request is rejected. So, you can apply anytime before 4-6 months.
Types of Student Visa in Ireland
The Ireland study visa requirements vary depending on your nationality. If you are outside the EU or EEA, you must request a visa to enroll in the university in Ireland. There are two kinds of visa options available for Ireland.
C type: A C-type study visa is required for study programs/courses shorter than three months, precisely 90 days.
D type: A D-type study visa is required if your program/course extends beyond three months.
Multiple Entry Visa: If you have met the requirements of single-entry visas in the past, you are eligible to apply for a multiple-entry visa. With a passport that allows multiple entries, you can visit Ireland on multiple occasions during its validity period.
Therefore, it is evident that the duration of your degree program will decide the type of visa you must apply for. Once you have your acceptance letter, you can select the appropriate Ireland student visa.
Ireland Student Visa Document Checklist
Now that you understand the fundamental aspects of an Ireland student visa, we can look into the specific Ireland student visa requirements. Below is a list of documents required for an Ireland student visa that must be submitted:
- Online application form (AVATS) –
- Valid passport
- Immigration documents – Previous refusal letters, Immigration letters, residence cards
- Letter of Acceptance
- Police Clearance Certificate
- Supplementary form
- Documentation of Parent’s income
- Two recent coloured photographs with white background
- Evidence of the gaps, if any
- Proof of payment of tuition fees (EFT)
- English proficiency scorecard
- Letter of application stating the reason for studying in Ireland Proof of sufficient funds / Summary of finances
- Insurance Cover (cover of €25,000 for 1 year)
- Copies of academic transcripts
- Copies of all exam results
- Visa SOP
- Employment documents
- Medical Insurance
Note- For masters, Pay a 50% tuition fee (without considering a scholarship) if the tuition fee is more than €12000 or the student needs to pay € 6000 in case the tuition fee is € 12000 or less. Making a first-year full tuition fee payment is highly recommended for higher chances of visa acceptance. For Bachelors, 1st year full tuition fee is to be paid.
How to Apply for an Ireland Student Visa?
Many students ask about the Ireland student visa process and how to apply. Here is the step-by-step guide to help you with the Ireland study visa process:
- Fill out the AVATS form
- Once the online AVATS form is filled and submitted, the student can proceed with the VFS appointment booking.
- Provide biometrics to VFS
- The application will be processed in the New Delhi Visa office.
- After the New Delhi Visa office makes a decision, it will be forwarded to you.
- If the visa is granted, arrange the flight tickets, and if not, appeal the decision through a cover letter.
Ireland Student Visa Fees
You can apply for an Ireland student visa at a reasonable cost. However, this cost is non-refundable, so you can only recover the price if your application is accepted by the university you have applied for. Multiple entry visa will cost you €100 (Rs 9,000) with a service charge of Rs 3,518.
Interview for Ireland Student Visa
It is not compulsory to give an interview for the Ireland student visa process. However, the requirements will depend on your documents and the application process.
It is conducted to ensure that you adhere to the guidelines prescribed by the immigration department for international students to study in Ireland. You might be asked why you wish to study in Ireland or if you plan to leave the country once your visa expires.
Ireland Post Study Visa
The Third-Level Graduate Scheme is available to international students who have completed their degree in Ireland. This scheme allows them to stay in Ireland for a specific period after graduation. During this time, they can search for a job or apply for a work permit, green card (permanent residency), or Ireland PSW (post-study work visa).
The duration of your stay in this program depends on your degree level. Students with postgraduate degrees (like Master’s) can stay for two years, while students with undergraduate degrees can stay for three to four years.
If you are approved to work under the Third-Level Graduate Scheme, you will receive a new visa stamp called Stamp 1G. This stamp replaces applying for a separate student visa extension in Ireland.
Conclusion
The visa success rate in Ireland is considered good. The rejection rate is 1-4%, making Ireland a welcoming country for international students. Reading the information carefully lets you easily get through the Ireland student visa process. Consult your nearest INIS office for more information about the nuances of Ireland study visa requirements.
FAQs
Can I apply for an Ireland study visa without having an IELTS score?
No, you cannot apply for it. The Ireland student visa process specifically mentions requiring proof of English proficiency, including an IELTS score.
How will I know that my visa request is approved?
You will get an application update via email or SMS.
What is proof of funds required for Ireland student visa requirements?
Proof of funds is your three most recent payslips and your updated bank statement of 6 months.
If you are an aspirant looking to study at your dream university, book an appointment with AdmitX today and start your applications early to avail yourself of all the benefits.
