Do you want to go to a conference, social event, or some other function in Ireland in the future? To accomplish your trip dream you probably need a Temporary Visitor’s Visa or Event Visa. This elaborate guide will guide you through this process, your necessities, and all you get.
What is a Conference or Event Visa?
A Conference or Event Visa is a specific kind of Irish visa which are the short-stay visas that come under the Schengen Visa category called ‘C’. It confers the right to take travelers to Ireland for up to 90 days with the objective of parties attending meetings and social gatherings of a similar type. If your nation does not have this kind of travel arrangement with Ireland, you will have to go ahead and get a visa. Think about it; an adolescent under the age of 18 would require a parent or legal guardian to apply on their behalf.
As a holder of a Conference or Event Visa, there are essential rules to note:
- In Ireland, you cannot engage in any form of work, including being an employee as well as a volunteer.
- You are not eligible for Irish public services or state benefits.
- Your visa is valid for travel to Ireland only and unlike a single entry visa, whether you are allowed into the country is up to the diplomatic or security personnel present at border control.
When very long trips are planned to last more than three score days, 90-day, you should seek for long stay ‘D’ visa.
Conference or Event Visa Application Process
Once apply visa submission, please keep in mind that you should do it at least three months before your desired visit plan. The application process comprises three main steps:
Create a Visa Application Online
- Visit the AVATS platform and initiate your visa application online.
- Select ‘Short Stay C’ as the visa type and specify ‘Conference/Event’ as your reason for traveling.
- Choose between ‘Single’ or ‘Multiple’ journey types. A Single-entry visa allows one entry into Ireland, while a Multiple-entry visa permits multiple entries during the visa’s validity period.
Pay the Visa Application Fee
Once you’ve completed your online application, you’ll need to pay the applicable visa application fee. Details on payment methods and procedures will be provided by the Irish embassy or consulate in your country of residence.
Submit Your Documents
Within 30 days of creating your AVATS application, you must send your documents to the embassy or consulate for processing. The processing of your application will commence only after all necessary documents have been submitted. In some cases, you may also need to provide biometric information.
Conference or Event Visa Required Documents
The list of required documents typically includes the following:
- Valid International Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure from Ireland.
- Passport-sized Colored Photographs: Provide two passport-sized colored photographs.
- Signed and Dated Application Summary: This summary should be from the AVATS portal.
- Application Letter: Draft a detailed letter explaining why you wish to travel to Ireland.
- Letter from Event Organizers: Include a letter from the conference or event organizers confirming your registration and describing the event.
- Receipt of Visa Fee Payment: Proof of payment for the visa application fee.
- Medical and Travel Insurance: Evidence of adequate medical and travel insurance coverage.
- Proof of Return: Documents demonstrating your intention to return to your home country.
- Accommodation Agreements: Details of your accommodation arrangements in Ireland.
- Financial Support Proof: Evidence of sufficient financial support during your stay in Ireland.
It’s important to note that while the above documents apply to most applicants, the embassy may request additional specific documents based on individual circumstances. Ensure that all documents are original, and if any document is not in English or Irish, include certified translations.
Place all your documents in an envelope, clearly indicating your name and Visa Application Transaction Number, before submitting them. The embassy will return all documents to you after processing your application.
What Happens After Submitting Your Documents?
Upon receiving your documents, the embassy will verify their completeness. If any documents are missing, they will request that you provide them. In cases where biometrics are necessary, you will be invited for the procedure.
After these initial checks, you will await the decision on your application. If approved, your visa will be affixed to your international passport, permitting you to travel to Ireland.
In the event of a denial, you will receive a letter of refusal explaining the grounds for the decision. If possible, you can appeal this decision within two months of receiving the refusal letter.
Entry into Ireland
When you arrive in Ireland, you’ll undergo Border Control procedures before entering the country. Submit your visa and supporting documents to an Irish immigration officer to demonstrate the validity of your visit.
The immigration officer will review your visa and documents, determining whether to approve or deny your entry. Upon approval, you will receive a landing stamp in your passport, indicating the reason for your visit and the permitted duration of your stay in Ireland.
Conference or Event Visa Application Fees
The fees associated with Conference or Event Visa applications vary depending on your circumstances:
- Single Entry – Short Stay ‘C’ Visa: €60
- Multiple Entry – Short Stay ‘C’ Visa: €100
Additionally, you may be required to pay consular fees, biometric fees, and other charges.
Visa Validity and Processing Time
Conference or Event Visas are valid for a maximum of 90 days. The exact expiration date is indicated on the landing stamp in your international passport. Ensure you depart Ireland before this date to avoid legal consequences, including deportation and future visa application complications.
The processing time for your visa application may vary based on the workload at the embassy or consulate where you applied. Applications are typically processed in the order they are received. According to Irish immigration guidelines, applicants should expect a decision on their short stay ‘C’ Conference/Event Visa application within eight weeks of document submission. Should any of your documents be missing, the eight-week processing period begins once you provide them.
To minimize processing delays, apply well in advance, ideally three months ahead, and ensure all required documents are for your specific circumstances.
In conclusion, obtaining a Conference or Event Visa for Ireland is a well-defined process that allows you to attend conferences, social gatherings, or events in this vibrant and welcoming country. By following this guide and carefully preparing your documents, you can navigate the application process with confidence, ensuring a smooth and successful trip to the Emerald Isle.