Ireland Student Visa Guide: Application Process, Requirements, and Tips

Ireland Student Visa Information

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Applying for an Ireland Study Visa

How to Get a Student Visa in Ireland

Ireland is a popular destination for international students looking to study abroad due to its high-ranking universities and low education costs compared to the UK. If you wish to study here, though, Ireland has its own set of policies when applying for a student visa.

International students require a study visa depending on the degrees and courses they wish to pursue and in accordance with the Visa Policy for Non-EEA students by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Services. The visa, in most cases, may be applied for up to three months before the date of travel to Ireland.

Student Visa Eligibility

Ireland has its own set of policies when applying for a student visa and it is essential that you consult the official website of the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) or the Irish embassy or consulate in your home country for the most up-to-date information.

International students require a study visa depending on the degrees and courses they wish to pursue and in accordance with the Visa Policy for Non-EEA students by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Services. The visa, in most cases, may be applied for up to three months before the date of travel to Ireland.

Types of Ireland Student Visa

International students who are enrolled on a course that lasts less than three months must apply for a ‘C-Study Visa’. However, international students undertaking full-time courses on the Interim List of Eligible Programmes are required to obtain a ‘D-Study Visa’ to enter Ireland.

General visa information

Student Visa applications can be submitted online by completing the online application process following the instructions for submission provided on the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Services website. The application also requires Biometric information.

- Fees

- English requirements

When applying for your study visa, you will also need to prove your English ability to a basic level as some course and visa offers are dependent on reaching a required level. Valid international certificates include IELTS and TOEFL.

Ireland Study Visa Documents

The supporting documentation required when applying for a Student Visa in Ireland includes the following:

Further details can be found on the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Services website.

Residence and Work Permits

Staying in Ireland after Graduation

After graduating from an Irish university, international students have several options to explore if they wish to remain in Ireland.

Through the Third Level Graduate Programme, non-European Economic Area (EEA) international students who have completed their education with a Level 8 or above degree from an Irish university can stay back in the country to seek employment and gain work experience. They can stay for up to 24 months after a bachelor's and master's degree, and PhD graduates can live up to 36 months after their studies are over.

International students can also study further if they wish. Additionally, someone with an entrepreneurial spirit can even explore starting their own business in Ireland. The Irish government offers various supports and incentives for entrepreneurs, such as the Start-up Entrepreneur Program, which provides a pathway for non-EEA nationals to establish a business and reside in Ireland.

Apply for a Study Visa

Do you need to apply for a Study Visa in Ireland? Experienced visa consultants at SI-Ireland can assist you with the visa application process using our Visa ServiceArrange a free consultation today to learn more.

Increase your chances of success when applying

SI-Ireland specialises in selecting the right Irish university for international students by reviewing your academic background, discussing your career goals and helping you apply. Our application services can help you achieve your dream of studying in Ireland.

Study in Ireland

"My consultant was very helpful and motivating. She helped me every step of the way, even when the deadline was so close. I could not have done it without her. I'd recommend this service to anyone interested in taking the stress out of applying alone."

Brishti Basu Accounting and Finance, Trinity College Dublin

Brishti Basu

Leading Universities and SI-Ireland Partners