If you’re planning to work and study abroad this summer, you must include Ireland on your destination list. From majestic mountain trails to glistening coastal views, you will experience the best of both worlds in this North Atlantic island country. However, before you go, you may need to obtain a visa for Ireland.
In this article, we will guide you through the different types of visas and requirements needed to apply for them. Once you have your visa for Ireland, you can travel to discover the rich history and scenic landscapes of this ancient country. Let’s begin!
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Types of Visas for Ireland
Before embarking on an adventure, you must be informed about visa options and travel necessities. Each visa for Ireland can vary in terms of duration, requirements, and permits. Also, the process of your visa application may differ depending on your country. Certain countries of the European Union and in Latin America do not require a visa for Ireland.
First, let’s take a look at the most common visas individually and their requirements.
Tourist Visa
The Tourist Visa for Ireland, which is one of the short stay “C” visas, allows you to travel to Ireland for up to 90 days. If you plan to study in the country, you can take a short-term course under this visa. Keep in mind, however, that having a visa does not necessarily permit you to enter the country. Border control decides on your entry depending on other factors, such as documentation and meeting additional requirements. For this reason, it is best to apply for your tourist visa at least three months in advance before traveling.
Remember, you can verify on the Ireland Department of Justice website if you need a visa for Ireland. If applicable, you can proceed with the following steps:
- Apply for the visa application online
- Pay the application fee (60 euros for a single entry; 100 euros for multiple entries)
- Complete and send necessary documents within 30 days of your application
Certain documents you may need with your visa application include an application letter, your study or vacation plans (college, accommodation, insurance), passport, photo I.D., and proof of financial solvency.
Also, be aware that if you leave the country for any reason, you will have to re-process your visa for Ireland.
Employment Visa
If you would like to stay in Ireland for longer than 90 days, you can do so under the Employment visa. This type of visa for Ireland enables you to work in the country so long as you have an employment permit from the Department of Jobs, Enterprise, and Innovation (DJEI).
To apply for the employment visa you must do so online, preferably three months before departing for Ireland. Also, bear in mind that you cannot work any other form of employment outside of the one you are approved to perform with this visa. The employment visa, as well as every visa for Ireland, costs 60 euros for the administration fee if a single entry and 100 euros if multi-entry.
Be aware that not every type of occupation is eligible under the employment permit. To verify, you can view the list of ineligible occupations in Ireland on the Department of Enterprise, Trade, and Employment website.
Requirements for the Employment Visa
You may need to provide biometric information with your application for the employment visa. In addition to your biometrics, there are several types of supporting documentation to submit with your application. Among these are:
- Two photographs (passport-sized, within the past six months)
- A current, valid passport
- Your letter of application explaining intent for staying in Ireland
- An employment contract
- A letter from your employer in Ireland confirming your job position
- Proof of financial solvency (bank statements)
- An employment permit
Regarding the employment permit, there are a few permits from which you can choose, including the General Employment Permit, Critical Skills, Contract for Services, and the Internship Employment permit.
Student Visa
If you plan to travel to Ireland to take up a course for longer than three months, you can apply for the Study Visa for Ireland. While studying in Ireland,this visa allows you to work a maximum of 20 hours per week during the school semester and 40 hours during the holiday period. The visa is valid for eight months and eligible for renewal for up to 2 years.
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