Ireland Visa Guide
Ireland, one of Europe’s largest islands, surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, offers a wealth of natural beauty, rich culture, and a thriving entrepreneurial spirit, making it an attractive travel destination. To explore all that Ireland has to offer, you’ll need an Ireland visa. Here’s your step-by-step guide to applying for an Ireland visa from India.
How to Apply for an Ireland Visa from India?
The application process for an Ireland visa for Indian citizens is primarily conducted online, but the submission process is offline and must be done at one of the Ireland Visa Application Centres (VACs) located across India. Before beginning your application, make sure you are eligible for the specific visa category you intend to apply for. Follow these steps to apply:
- Gather all the necessary documents required for your particular type of Ireland visa.
- Visit the website of the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) and access the online portal to fill out your Ireland visa application form.
- Pay the applicable fees online.
- Schedule an appointment for submitting your application at one of the VACs in India. You must submit your application within 30 days of completing the online Ireland visa application.
- Bring your payment confirmation, appointment confirmation, required documents, and be prepared to submit your biometrics during your VAC appointment.
Types of Ireland Visas:
Ireland visas are categorized based on the main purpose of the visit and the duration of stay. Here are the primary types:
Short Stay (C Type):
- Tourist: For individuals visiting the Republic of Ireland for tourism-related activities.
- Business: Granted to businessmen engaged in business activities in Ireland.
- Family or Friends (Visit): Allows visits to family members or friends residing in Ireland.
- Conference or Events: Issued for participation in conferences, symposiums, and similar events.
- Training: Permits participation in training courses in Ireland.
- Employment (Atypical Working Scheme): For short-term work in the country.
Long Stay (D Visa):
- Study: For those coming to Ireland for long-term studies.
- Family Reunion: Enables joining family members in the Republic of Ireland.
- Employment: Allows extended work stays in the country.
As most applications from India are for short-term visas, this guide focuses on the C visa category.
Documents Required for Ireland Visa from India:
General documents needed for an Ireland visa application from India include:
- Passport valid for at least 6 months from your expected travel date.
- Two passport-sized photographs.
- Travel itinerary.
- Confirmed round-trip flight tickets.
- Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings, invitation letters from hosts, etc.).
- Proof of return (payslips, rental agreements, proof of enrollment, etc.).
- Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements).
- Documents substantiating the purpose of your visit.
Ireland Visa Photo Size:
Photographs submitted for an Ireland visa application must meet these specifications:
- Dimensions: 35mm X 45mm
- Color: Colored
- Head centered in the frame
- Taken within the last 3 months
- Background: Solid, plain white, or grey
- 70-80% face coverage
- Neutral expression
- Non-thick framed and prescription glasses allowed
- Headgear permitted only for religious reasons
- Facial hair is allowed
Processing Time for Ireland Visa:
The processing time for an Irish visa varies depending on the visa type, number of entries, the volume of applications at the embassy, and your travel history. Tourist visas may take up to 8 weeks from document submission. Therefore, it’s advisable to apply well in advance.
Ireland Visa Fees for Indians:
The total fees for an Ireland visa for Indian citizens depend on the visa type, duration of stay, and foreign exchange rates. Additional charges may apply for biometrics and other services. Verify the exact amount before starting your application.
| Entry | Purpose | Stay Duration | Validity | Fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single entry Normal | Transit | 1 month | 3 months | 3400.0 |
| Multiple entry Normal | Business | 1 month | 3 months | 8500.0 |
| Single entry Normal | Business | 1 month | 3 months | 5800.0 |
| Single entry Normal | Tourist | 1 month | 3 months | 5800.0 |
| Single entry Normal | Sports | 1 month | 3 months | 5800.0 |
| Multiple entry Normal | Tourist | 1 month | 3 months | 8500.0 |
How to Check Visa Status?
You can check the status of your visa application by visiting the designated portal and entering your reference number and email address. Alternatively, you can ask your travel agency to assist in tracking the status.
Where Can I Apply for Ireland Visa?
Ireland visa applications must be made online through the portal. The application is then submitted at a VAC located in major cities across India. Despite submitting the application at the VAC, the Ireland Embassy in New Delhi processes it. Note that the VAC has no influence on the visa decision-making process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Short-term Irish permits cannot be extended, but long-term categories may have extensions. However, long-term permits typically come with authorized stay-back periods. In exceptional circumstances, the Irish Naturalization and Immigration Service may grant an extension.
While short-term Ireland visas for Indian citizens do not require mandatory medical tests, long-term applications may necessitate a health certificate. It is advisable to undergo a medical check-up before traveling to Ireland.
There is no fixed amount required to apply for an Ireland visa. Embassy regulations mandate that you prove you have sufficient funds to cover your entire stay and maintain a stable bank account. Sudden changes in funds may require an explanatory letter.
Yes, the proof of funds must cover all your expenses in Ireland, including food, accommodation, and travel. These funds must be easily accessible when needed, and you must demonstrate their availability for withdrawal and use.
Given the processing time of up to 8 weeks, it is recommended to apply well in advance. However, applications cannot be submitted more than 3 months before your intended travel date.
Yes, you can visit the UK with an Irish visa, specifically a short-term C visa. Entry into the UK is permitted if you first enter Ireland and then travel to the UK, thanks to the British-Irish Visa Scheme (BIVS), which allows short-term entry permits from both countries to be used interchangeably.
Holding a Schengen visa may have a positive impact on your Irish visa application. It is considered favorably, and consular officers processing your application may view it as a sign of compliance with visa rules, potentially expediting the processing time.
