Ireland has emerged as a popular choice among international students due to the progressive investments made by the Irish government in the education sector. The major transformation of higher education in Irish educational institutions is attracting lakhs of students across the world. One can learn innovations and research over an extensive range of courses in the modern economy of Ireland. Ireland is a part of the European Union and its universities and colleges follow the Bologna system of pedagogy. 

Students must obtain a study visa in order to travel to Ireland for their higher studies. The information regarding the study visa process and necessary documents is given below: 

When and where to apply for an Irish Study Visa?

A student is allowed to apply for an Irish study visa for up to 3 months before their arrival date in Ireland. Moreover, to apply for a study visa, you need to visit the website of the Irish Naturalization and Immigration Service. There, you can submit your application along with your biometrics information. Follow the below-mentioned process to successfully submit your study visa application. 

Study Visa processing time 

The processing time of an Irish study visa is indefinite and depends on the type of visa, the nationality of the student, and many other factors. But usually, one can expect a reply from immigration authorities in 4 – 6 weeks. 

Documents required for Study Visa 

The following are the documents that have to be submitted along with the application for an Irish student visa: 

1. Acceptance letter from the educational institution

2. 2 recent colored passport sized photographs

3. Signed application letter

4. Evidence for gaps in your educational history

5. Application Summary Document

6. current passport and full copies of old passports

7. Evidence showing that you have enrolled in a privately funded course

8. Fee payment receipt of educational institution

9. Proof of sufficient finances for the duration of your course

10. English Language Proficiency Certificate

11. Private medical insurance 

12. Copies of all academic qualifications with their final results.

The Irish Study Visa process 

The step-by-step procedure for acquiring an Irish study visa is as follows: 

Step 1 – Receive an acceptance letter from Irish University 

In order to be eligible for the Irish student visa, you need to obtain an acceptance letter from a reputed Irish university. Accept the admission offer and secure a seat in the educational institution. 

Step 2 – Find out the best visa for you

Check the types of visa and select the best one suitable for your course.

1. Type C visa – It is best for those courses whose duration is less than 3 months or 90 days like certificate courses or language programs. 

2. Type D visa – Ir is best for those courses whose duration is more than 3 months like degree programs, diploma courses, vocational courses, etc. 

Non-EU international students registering for Type D visa have to get themselves registered with Garda National Immigration Bureau as well to stay in Ireland for more than 90 days. 

Step 3 – Fill up the application form and submit it

Log to the website of the Irish Naturalization and Immigration Service and submit an online application form. 

Step 4 – Obtain the application summary

After your online application is submitted, you will receive an application summary. Get a print of the application summary and sign it. 

Step 5 – Send supporting documents

You will receive an address where you have to send all of the aforementioned supporting documents along with a signed application summary. 

Step 6 – Give Biometrics 

Sometimes, immigration authorities request applicants for biometrics. In that case, you need to visit the nearby Irish visa application center (VAC) and submit biometrics. 

Step 7 – Apply for a residential permit

Once you receive your visa decision, you can travel to Ireland. As soon as you reach Ireland, apply for Irish Residence Permit within 90 days of your arrival.