Visa Requirements

Citizens of certain countries require an entry visa for Ireland.  Please check the Government of Ireland, Department of Foreign Affairs website to see if you are a citizen of a country that requires a visa to enter Ireland. 

It is the responsibility of the student to apply for his or her own entry visa. All citizens of non–EEA countries, whether they require a visa or not, are subject to immigration control at the point of entry to Ireland.  

Nationals of the European Economic Area (EEA)

Citizens of the European Economic Area (EEA) are not required to present themselves to the immigration authorities in Ireland.  

Non-EEA Nationals

All non-EEA nationals are required to formally register their stay with the Immigration Authorities, Garda Siochana, Henry Street, Limerick.  They will need to have the following documentation:

• Valid passport
• Evidence of sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in Ireland or a letter of sponsorship*
• Proof of Health Insurance for duration of stay
• Student Status Letter (Letter from host college confirming their acceptance and course details)

Students should have these documents in their hand luggage when travelling to Ireland as they may be asked to produce them at the point of entry to Ireland (this is not a substitute for the formal registration of their stay in Ireland). 

Once the applicant has been formally registered (normally within two weeks of arrival), they will be issued with an immigration card stating the period in which the applicant is allowed to remain in the State.  The immigration authorities apply a charge of €150 for this card. 

Letter of Sponsorship Requirements – the letter should state that the sponsor will provide all financial and medical support necessary for the person named while they remain in Ireland.  It should be specified that if granted permission to remain the person named will not become a burden on the State.   

Documented proof during the academic year 2011/2012 should show the student having at least €400 per month at their disposal.