Ireland Visa Requirements

Planning a trip to Ireland? If you’re not a citizen of the UK, Switzerland, or a European Economic Area (EEA) country, you might need to consider the visa requirements for your journey.

Do I Need a Visa?

An Irish visa is a crucial document that allows non-citizens of the UK, Switzerland, and EEA countries to enter Ireland. Even with a visa, entry is subject to approval by immigration officers upon presenting your passport and relevant documents.

Don’t forget, if you’re traveling with children, they also need a visa. Additionally, registering with immigration authorities may be required.

Ukrainian Citizens

Great news for citizens of Ukraine! As of February 25, 2022, you no longer need a visa to travel to Ireland. Be sure to check specific information for those arriving from Ukraine.

Visa Exemptions

You won’t need a visa to land in Ireland if you fall into one of these categories:

  • Citizen of the EU, EEA, or Switzerland
  • Holder of a residence card from an EEA country or Switzerland due to family ties
  • Possessor of a UK short-stay visa qualifying for the visa waiver or British-Irish Visa Scheme
  • School student from an EU/EEA country on a school trip

Visa-Free Travel

Citizens of certain countries, including Andorra, Japan, Singapore, and the United States, enjoy visa-free travel to Ireland. British nationals (overseas, overseas territories citizens, and overseas citizens) also benefit, excluding British protected persons.

Preclearance Requirements

Even if you’re exempt from a visa, you might still need preclearance for various reasons, such as volunteering, being a de facto partner, or joining a UK citizen family member.

Types of Visas

Short Stay Visas (C)

Ideal for visits under 3 months, covering tourism, business meetings, and short courses.

Long Stay Visas (D)

For stays over 3 months, suitable for study, work, or permanent settlement. A subsequent Irish Residence Permit (IRP) is required for stays beyond 3 months.

Re-entry Multiple Entry Visas

For frequent travelers, allowing multiple entries within the visa’s validity period.

Transit Visas

Required for travelers passing through Ireland to another destination. Certain countries, like Afghanistan and Iraq, necessitate a transit visa.

Visa Waivers for UK Visa Holders

The Short Stay Visa Waiver Programme facilitates visa-free travel for nationals of several countries with short-term UK visas.

School Student Visa Waiver

School students from visa-required countries can apply for a waiver when part of a school trip from an EU or EEA country.

Applying for a Visa or Preclearance

Apply online at least 8 weeks before your intended travel date. Detailed instructions and language options are available on the ISD website.

Biometric data, including fingerprints, may be required for applicants in certain countries.

Rates

Standard visa application fees apply:

  • Single journey visa: €60
  • Multi-journey visa: €100 (valid for up to 5 years)
  • Transit visa: €25

Check the ISD website for local currency fees and potential communications charges.

Fee Exemptions

Certain applicants, such as visa-required spouses of EEA citizens and nationals from specific countries, may be exempt from fees. Verify the current list with your local Irish embassy or consulate.

Further Information and Contacts

For detailed visa information, reach out to your nearest Irish embassy or consulate. Specific contact details include:

Visa Office

Re-entry Visa Processing Office

  • Address: 13/14 Burgh Quay, Dublin 2, Ireland
  • Opening Hours: 8.30am – 1:30pm Mon-Fri (excluding public holidays)

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