Applying for an Ireland Student Visa

Ireland is a popular study abroad destination, known for its world-class universities, welcoming culture, and lower tuition costs compared to the UK. If you plan to study in Ireland as an international student, it is essential to understand the visa process and ensure you meet all requirements before applying.

International students from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) must apply for a student visa in accordance with the Immigration Service Delivery (ISD) policies. Visa applications can generally be submitted up to three months before your intended date of travel.

Getting an Ireland Student Visa

Student Visa Eligibility

Ireland has its own set of policies when applying for a student visa. To be eligible for a Stamp 2 (Long Stay) student visa in 2026, you must:

• Have a letter of acceptance for a full-time course listed on the Interim List of Eligible Programmes (ILEP)
• Demonstrate English language proficiency (e.g. IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo)
• Provide proof of financial support: You must show immediate access to at least €10,000 for living expenses for your first year, plus evidence of access to the same amount for each subsequent year
• Show proof that at least €6,000 has been paid toward your tuition fees (or the full amount if fees are lower)
• Hold valid private medical insurance (covering at least €25,000 for accident and €25,000 for disease)
• Provide a signed letter of application explaining your study plan and commitment to leave Ireland upon expiry of the visa

Types of Ireland Student Visa

The type of visa you need depends on the duration of your course:

• C-Study Visa (Short Stay): For courses or exams lasting less than 90 days
• D-Study Visa (Long Stay): For full-time academic courses lasting more than 90 days

Most international students pursuing a degree in Ireland will require the D-Study Visa.

Visa Application Process

Applications are submitted online via the official AVATS portal. After completing the online form, you must follow the specific instructions for your home country, which usually involve:

• Attending a biometric appointment (fingerprints and photo) at a VFS Global centre or embassy
• Submitting your physical passport and supporting documents for processing
• Paying the visa application fee

Visa Fees for 2026

• Single-entry visa: €60 (approx. £51)
• Multiple-entry visa: €100 (approx. £86)

Note: Fees are payable in local currency and may be subject to additional VFS service charges.

English Language Requirements

Minimum scores vary by institution, but the general 2026 standards for a D-Study Visa are:

• IELTS: Minimum 6.0 overall (with no band below 6.0 for most universities)
• TOEFL iBT: Minimum 80 (standard requirements are increasing for 2026 tests)
• PTE Academic: Minimum 63
• Duolingo (DET): Minimum 120 overall (with at least 110 in each sub-score)

Residence and Work Permissions

Registering in Ireland

Once you arrive in Ireland, all non-EEA students staying longer than 90 days must register with Immigration Service Delivery (ISD) or the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) to obtain their Irish Residence Permit (IRP) card.

Working While Studying

International students on a valid Stamp 2 permission are entitled to work part-time:

• Up to 20 hours per week during term time
• Up to 40 hours per week during holiday periods (June, July, August, September and 15 December to 15 January)

Post-Study Work Options in Ireland 2026

Ireland’s Third Level Graduate Programme (Stamp 1G) allows graduates to remain in Ireland to seek full-time employment without a separate work permit:

• Level 8 (Honours Bachelor Degree): Stay for 12 months
• Level 9/10 (Master’s or PhD): Stay for 24 months (initially granted for 12 months and renewable for a further 12)

Graduates can use this time to work full-time or find an employer to sponsor them for a Critical Skills Employment Permit.

Apply for a Student Visa

Need help applying for your Irish study visa? The experienced visa consultants at StudyIn can support you through the entire application process, from document checks to tracking your submission.

Arrange a free consultation today to get started.

FAQs

When should I apply for my Irish student visa?

You can apply for your visa up to three months before your intended date of travel to Ireland. It is highly recommended to apply as early as possible, especially during the peak months of July and August, as processing times can vary depending on your home country.

How much money do I need to show for the 2026 financial requirements?

For the 2026 academic year, the Irish government requires non-EEA students to provide evidence that they have access to at least €10,000 for each year of study. This is in addition to having paid at least €6,000 in tuition fees prior to the visa application.

What is the difference between a C-Study and D-Study visa?

A C-Study visa is for short-term courses or training that lasts 90 days or less. A D-Study visa is a long-stay visa required for international students enrolled on full-time degree programmes, such as a Bachelor’s or Master’s, which last longer than 90 days.

Do I need to pay for my health insurance before I arrive?

Yes. Private medical insurance is a mandatory requirement for the student visa. You must provide proof of a policy that covers at least €25,000 for accidents and €25,000 for disease for the duration of your stay in Ireland.

Can I stay in Ireland after I graduate?

Yes, through the Third Level Graduate Programme (Stamp 1G). Bachelor’s degree graduates (Level 8) can stay for 12 months, while Master’s and PhD graduates (Level 9 and 10) can stay for 24 months to seek full-time employment.

What is the IRP registration fee?

After arriving in Ireland, all non-EEA students must register with immigration authorities to receive their Irish Residence Permit (IRP) card. As of 2026, the standard registration fee for this appointment is €300.