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Short Stay ‘C’ Visas

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Planning a visit to Ireland for up to 90 days? Learn about Short Stay ‘C’ Visas, which let you stay for a limited time. This guide covers the types of C visas, eligibility, application process, required documents, and what happens after you apply.

What are Short Stay Visas

Also known as C visas, are for people planning to stay in Ireland for up to 90 days. The type of visa you need depends on the reason for visiting

 Visa Types

  • Tourist Visa: Suitable for tourism purposes with a 90-day stay, ideal for exploring Ireland’s landscapes and culture, or for short-term courses at recognized institutions.
  • Family/Friends Visa: For visiting friends or family residing in Ireland, requiring the host to be an Irish resident.
  • Business Visa: Designed for business-related activities like meetings, negotiations, or signing agreements in Ireland.
  • Conference/Event Visa: Facilitates attendance at conferences or events in Ireland for academics and business professionals.
  • Exam Visa: For students or professionals taking exams related to their studies or employment in Ireland.
  • Employment Visa (Atypical Working Scheme Division): Allows short-term employment in Ireland with prior approval from the Atypical Working Scheme Division.
  • Join Ship Visa: Specifically for working as a seafarer on a ship departing from Ireland.
  • Internship Visa: For individuals participating in internship or training programs related to their studies.
  • Marriage Visa: Essential for those planning to marry or enter a civil partnership in Ireland, requiring proof confirmed by the Registrar.
  • Performance/Tournament Visa: For participants in tournaments, stage performances, or sports events in Ireland.
  • Training Visa: Applicable for participating in employer or organization-funded training programs in Ireland.
  • Medical Treatment Visa: Allows private medical treatment in Ireland under specific conditions.
  • Visa for non-EU/EEA & non-Swiss Citizens Traveling with EU/EEA/Swiss Family: For non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals accompanying family migrating to or residing in Ireland who are EU/EEA/Swiss citizens.

Eligibility Requirements 

  • You must show that you plan to leave Ireland within 90 days of arrival.
  • Provide evidence of your onward travel arrangements from Ireland.
  • You (or your sponsor, if applicable) must have enough funds to cover your stay in Ireland.
  • Ensure that entering Ireland won’t violate the Common Travel Area by attempting to enter the UK without a valid UK visa.
  • Immigration records, including any significant breaches of Irish or UK immigration laws, will be assessed.
  • Your history of serious criminal activity will be considered.
  • Providing false or misleading information to the Department of Justice & Equality will lead to application rejection and potential consequences, including a five-year ban from applying for an Irish visa.

Applying for a Short Stay  Visa

  • Begin your visa application by visiting the AVATS portal.
  •  Make sure to pay the required visa application fee.
  • Gather all the required supporting documents.
  • Submit your application and necessary documentation for processing.
  • It’s important to submit all supporting documents within 30 days of creating your application on the AVATS portal. If your visa application is approved, carry these documents with you when traveling to Ireland.

Required Documents

  • AVATS Online Application Summary Sheet
  • Application Letter: Describing the purpose of your visit to Ireland.
  • Valid International Passport
  • Photocopies of Previous Passports: If available.
  • Two Passport Photographs: Each photograph should include your visa application tracking number and signature on the back.
  • Accommodation and Financial Plans: Details about your accommodations and how you will fund your stay in Ireland.
  • Return Proof: Evidence of your intention to return to your home country.
  • All documents must adhere to the official guidelines of the Department of Justice & Equality:
  • Documents should be original; photocopies are accepted only when explicitly stated or in special circumstances.
  • Non-English or Irish documents require certified translations, with the original non-English/Irish documents still submitted.
  • Letters must be on official letterheads.

Application Fees

  • Single-Entry Short-Stay C Visa Application Fee: €60
  • Multi-Entry Short-Stay C Visa Application Fee: €100
  • Consular Fees (if applicable)

What happens after Submitting Your Application

Once you submit your application, immigration officers will review it along with your supporting documents. They may contact other government departments or international organizations for more information about you.

After processing, your documents will be mailed to you or can be collected at the Irish embassy or consulate. If approved, your visa will be stamped in your passport. If denied, you’ll receive a letter explaining why.

Having an Irish visa doesn’t guarantee entry. At the border, you must show your passport and visa to an immigration officer. Carry all necessary documents and photocopies, like your application summary sheet and proof of finances.

If approved, you’ll get an entry stamp. If there are concerns, entry might be denied.

Processing Time

The Department for Justice & Equality aims to decide on your application within eight weeks of receiving it. Processing times may vary based on the embassy workload and visa type. To prevent delays, follow the correct application process, submit all needed documents, and pay fees promptly.

Visa Extension

Short-stay visas last up to 90 days and generally cannot be extended except in exceptional situations. Plan your visit accordingly to comply with Irish immigration rules.

C Visas provide a convenient way to explore Ireland for tourism, business, or family visits. By meeting the requirements and applying carefully, you can make your short stay in Ireland enjoyable and hassle-free. Embark on your journey to discover Ireland’s beauty with a Short Stay ‘C’ Visa as your gateway to this captivating destination.

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