Student visa requirements for Ireland

Need help with applying to student visa? Here’s help!

Ireland is home to some of the world's leading universities, offering high-quality education and a diverse range of courses. Ireland's rich cultural heritage, stunning natural scenery, and friendly people make it an attractive destination for international students looking to study abroad. Studying in Ireland provides students with opportunities to gain valuable work experience and build professional networks, thanks to the country's thriving industries and growing economy.

The Irish Government provides an opportunity to all Indian students to study in the country but as a prerequisite, you’ll have to obtain a student visa first. The visa you’d need will depend on your age and the type of study you wish to pursue in Ireland. 

Help me study in Ireland

Types and duration of visa for Ireland

Here’s an overview of the types of study visas and their application requirements:

*For detailed information, please visit the Irish Government’s Naturalisation and Immigration Service website.

Documents required for ‘D Study visa’ in Ireland

To apply for your study visa, you will generally need: 

• A current passport or other valid travel documentation

• Letter of acceptance from a recognised Irish institution

• As a mandatory condition, your passport needs to be valid for 12 months i.e., after your proposed date of arrival in Ireland 

• Passport-sized colour photographs

• The score of an English language proficiency test such as IELTS 

• Proof of fee payment (this can either be a valid receipt showing course fees has been lodged to an approved student fee payment service or of a copy of the Electronic Transfer of Funds by the applicant to the Irish bank of the university or college

• Evidence of funds (€7,000) to provide with your living expenses for the duration of your course

• Evidence that accounts for any gaps in your educational history (if any) 

• Medical insurance details

• You might also be asked to provide with your biometric information as part of the application process

• A statement of your commitment that you’ll leave Ireland on the expiry of your visa

• For 'C' visa you need application summary sheets and proof of your return home as attested documents

• Evidence of academic ability to pursue your chosen course

You may also have to appear for a personal interview at the Ireland embassy or consulate.  

If any of your document is not in English/Irish, then it must include a full translation. Also, each of the translated document must consist of:

• A translator confirmation as evidence of accurate translation of the original document submitted;

• The translation date;

• The full name and signature of the translator

• The contact details of your translator

*Please note that these are the basic requirements, speak with your IDP counsellor for a detailed list of documents required for visa processing

When can you apply? 

You can apply for a study visa up to three months before your travel date to Ireland. But, if you plan to visit another state before you travel to Ireland, then you must possess a relevant visa for that state in your passport before you apply for an Irish visa.

Applying for your visa online

You can apply for your student visa application online using the Irish Government’s official website. You can apply up to three months before your intended date of travel to Ireland. Remember, your application date is the date when your application fee is paid.

How can IDP help with visa applications?

If you’re an IDP student with an offer letter from any of our partner institutions in Ireland, we can advise you on how to go about the entire process. We’ll make sure you are fully informed on the latest visa requirements and conditions; also help you prepare the right documents for your submission. 

Our team of experts will direct you to the official websites and to authorised immigration representatives to ensure you have the latest applications forms and guidance. To reduce the hassle, we can also help to certify, translate and courier your documents. 

Visa fee

As an applicant from outside Ireland, you will have to pay €60 as your visa fee (do check the latest fee when applying here). 

English language requirements

To gain your study visa for Ireland, you’ll have to provide evidence of proficiency in the English language. This usually means passing a secure English language test to be able to prove your communication and correspondence skills.

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is the world’s most popular high-stakes English language proficiency test for study, work and migration, with more than three million tests taken in the past year. The IELTS results are recognised by more than 11,000 organisations, including educational institutions, employers, professional associations and governments, in 140 countries around the world.

A minimum score of 5.0 band is required in IELTS to apply for an Irish study visa. 

Know more about IELTS

Biometric

As part of your application, you will also be required to furnish your biometric information. As an Indian student, you’d need to provide your fingerprints to the Irish authorities. 

You can always contact us for a free counselling session and we can guide you on how to go about the entire visa application process. 

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Q1. What level of English proficiency is required for a student visa in Ireland?

Ans. You will need to demonstrate that you can speak, read, write, and understand English at the required level for your course. This will usually mean passing an approved English language test such as IELTS or TOEFL.

Q3. Can I work on a student visa in Ireland?

Ans. Yes, you can usually work part-time during your studies and full-time during scheduled breaks, such as the summer holidays. However, there may be restrictions on the type of work you can do, and you will need to check the conditions of your specific visa.

Q3. Do I need health insurance for a student visa in Ireland?

Ans. Yes, you will need to have private medical insurance for the duration of your stay in Ireland. You may be able to purchase this insurance through your educational institution or a private provider.

Q4. Can I apply for permanent residency in Ireland after studying on a student visa?

Ans. Yes, you may be eligible to apply for a work visa or a long-term stay visa after completing your studies, depending on your individual circumstances. There are several pathways to permanent residency, including the General Employment Permit and the Critical Skills Employment Permit.

Talk to our Ireland education experts

Updated on March 17, 2023

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