Ireland Tourist Visa - Definitive Guide

A type of the short term ‘C’ category, the tourist permit lets individuals enter the Republic of Ireland and take part in tourism-related activities. Even though the permit is available as the single-entry type and multiple-entry type, the multiple-entry permit is issued in limited cases. However, nationals of the EU and a few other visa-exempt nations do not require the permit to enter. 

The application for the Ireland tourist visa for Indians is done online. The application submission, however, must be done at one of the Irish Visa Application Centres (VAC) across India. Before starting the application, ensure that you are eligible to apply for the tourist permit. After this, you can proceed to make the application as follows - 

• Acquire all the necessary documents you will need for the tourist category.
• Visit the website of the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service and enter the online portal and fill in your application form. 
• Proceed to pay the fees online.
• You must then proceed to make an appointment for the application submission at one of the VACs located across India. You must submit the application within 30 days of filling the form. 
• Along with the payment confirmation, appointment confirmation, and the documents, visit the respective VAC for your visa appointment. You will also have to submit your biometrics here.

• Short Stay Visa (C Visa): For tourism, visiting family/friends, business, or other short-term purposes. The duration of stay is usually up to 90 days.
  
  
• Multiple Entry Short Stay Visa: Ideal if you plan to visit Ireland multiple times within a set period (e.g., 5 years).

As per the Ireland tourist visa requirements, you must submit the following documents to successfully apply for the permit - 

• A valid Passport-
  

  • The passport should consist of at least 2 blank pages.
  • It should be valid for at least 6 months from the date of intended travel.
  • Passports issued beyond 10 years are not accepted.
  • Old passports, if any, are to be attached.
    
    

• Covering letter - 

• • The letter should include the applicant's basic details such as name, designation, address, passport number, etc.
  • It should clearly mention the person providing the funds. 
  • It should clearly state the purpose and duration of the visit.
  • It should be signed by the applicant and addressed to the Irish embassy.
    
    

• Travel itinerary/documents - 

• • A day wise travel itinerary 
  • Confirmed flight tickets
  • Proof of accommodation - hotel/hostel bookings, an invitation letter from a host, etc

• Medical travel insurance (in certain cases, will be required only after visa approval)
• Proof of return to home - one of the following - 
  
  

• If employed -

• • Employment contract copy, Employee ID card copy
  • Recent salary payslips
    
    

• Family ties -

• • Marriage certificates/Proof of relationship
  • Description of the family
    
    

• Property ties - 

• • Rental agreements/Property papers, etc
    
    

• If student -

• • A letter stating the duration, and other details of the current course.

• • Financial documents -

• • • Personal bank statements for the last 3 months or copy of updated passbook showing sufficient funds
      
      
      

5.1 Check Eligibility and Required Documents

• Duration: Before starting the application process
  
  
• Objective: Verify your eligibility and gather all necessary documents
  
  

Steps:

• Visit the Official Website:
  
  
• Go to the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) or the Irish Embassy/Consulate website in India.
  
  
  
• Use the Visa Tool/Checker:
  
  
• Utilize the online tool to determine if you need a visa based on your nationality, purpose, and duration of stay.
  
  
  
• Review Required Documents:
  
  
• Refer to the detailed list of mandatory and additional documents as outlined in the Requirements for Ireland Tourist Visa for Indians section.
  
  
  
• Gather and Prepare Documents:
  
  
• Ensure all documents are complete, up-to-date, and meet the specified requirements.
• Make photocopies of all documents, as you'll need to submit these with your application.
  
  

Tips:

• Double-check the expiration dates of your passport and other documents.
• If a document is not in English, provide a certified translation.
  
  

5.2 Fill the Online Application Form (AVAF)

• Duration: Approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour
  
  
• Objective: Complete and submit the online visa application form
  
  

Steps:

• Access the Online Application Portal:
  
  
• Visit the AVATS Online Application System or the link provided on the Irish Embassy/Consulate website.
  
  
  
• Create an Account (If Necessary):
  
  
• Register with a valid email address and password.
  
  
  
• Fill Out the Application Form:
  
  
• Section 1: Applicant Details - Personal information, passport details, etc.
• Section 2: Travel Details - Trip purpose, dates, accommodation, etc.
• Section 3: Supporting Documents - Upload required documents (check the file size and format requirements).
  
  
  
• Review and Edit (If Necessary):
  
  
• Ensure all information is accurate and complete.
  
  
  
• Submit the Application:
  
  
• You'll receive a Unique Application Number; note this for future reference.
  
  
  
• Print the Application Summary:
  
  
• This summary will be required when submitting your application at the VAC.
  
  

Tips:

• Use a compatible browser and ensure your internet connection is stable.
  
  
• If you encounter issues, refer to the online FAQs or contact the VAC/embassy for assistance.
  
  

5.3 Pay the Application Fee

• Duration: Immediate (online payment)
  
  
• Objective: Pay the required visa application fee
  
  

Steps:

• Check the Current Fee:
  
  
• Verify the application fee for a single entry Short Stay Visa (currently €60, subject to change).
  
  
• Online Payment:
  
  
• Pay using a valid credit/debit card through the online application portal.
  
  
  
• Receipt:
  
  
• You'll receive a payment receipt; keep this for your records.

Tips:

• Ensure your card is enabled for international transactions.
  
  
• The application fee is non-refundable, even if your application is rejected.
  
  

5.4 Book an Appointment at the Visa Application Centre (VAC)

• Duration: Varies (dependent on VAC schedules)
  
  
• Objective: Schedule an appointment to submit your application and provide biometrics (if required)
  
  

Steps:

• Visit the VAC Website:
  
  
• Go to the Visa Application Centre for Ireland in India website.
  
  
  
• Select Your Location:
  
• Choose the VAC closest to you.
  
  
  
• Book an Appointment:
  
  
• Fill in the required details (application reference number, name, contact information, etc.).
• Select a suitable date and time slot.
  
  
  
• Confirmation:
  
  
• You'll receive an appointment confirmation email; ensure you read and understand the instructions.

Tips:

• Book your appointment well in advance to avoid delays.
  
  
• Check the VAC's website for any specific requirements or restrictions.
  
  

5.5 Submit Your Application

• Duration: Approximately 10-30 minutes (dependent on VAC efficiency)
  
  
• Objective: Submit your visa application and supporting documents
  
  

Steps (In Person at the VAC):

• Arrive Early:
  
  
• Reach the VAC at least 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment.
  
  
  
• Verification:
  
  
• Present your appointment confirmation, application summary, and original documents.
  
  
  
• Submission:
  
  
• Hand over your application and supporting documents to the VAC staff.
  
  
  
• Biometrics (If Required):
  
  
• Proceed to provide your biometric data (fingerprints) as instructed.
  
  

Alternative Submission Methods:

• Through a Trusted Friend/Family Member:
  
  
• Ensure they have a confirmed appointment and you provide a signed authorization letter.
  
  
  
• Via Courier (If Applicable):
  
  
• Check with the VAC/embassy for this option and follow their instructions carefully.
  
  

Tips:

• Ensure all documents are in order to avoid delays or rejection.
  
  
• If submitting through a third party, ensure they are aware of the process and requirements.
  
  

5.6 Provide Biometrics (If Required)

• Duration: Approximately 10 minutes
  
  
• Objective: Provide your biometric data (fingerprints) as part of the application process
  
  

Steps:

• Biometric Enrollment:
  
  
• Proceed to the designated biometric area at the VAC.
  
  
  
• Fingerprint Scanning:
  
  
• Place your fingers on the scanner as instructed by the VAC staff.
  
  
  
• Verification:
  
  
• Confirm your biometric data has been successfully captured.

Tips:

• Ensure your fingers are free from any decorations (e.g., henna, nail polish) that may interfere with the scanning process.
  
  
• If you have any concerns, inform the VAC staff before the process begins.
  
  
  

5.7 Wait for the Application to be Processed

• Duration: Typically 8-10 weeks (60-70 working days), but may vary
  
  
• Objective: Await the outcome of your visa application
  
  

Steps:

• Track Your Application (If Possible):
  

• Use the reference number provided to check the status on the VAC or embassy website.
  
  
  
• Wait for the Decision:
  
  
• The embassy/consulate will review your application and make a decision.
  
  
  
• Outcome:
  
  
• Approved: Your passport with the visa will be returned or made available for collection.
  
  
• Rejected: A letter will explain the reason for refusal; you may appeal the decision.

• Irish Embassy New Delhi: For residents of India, except for those residing in Mumbai, the states of Gujarat, Goa, Daman, Diu, Nagar Haveli, and Dadra.
  
  
• Consulate General of Ireland Mumbai: For residents of Mumbai, Gujarat, Goa, Daman, Diu, Nagar Haveli, and Dadra.
  
  
• Visa Application Centres (VACs): Located in various cities across India. Check the official government websites for locations and to book an appointment.

• Processing Time: Typically 8-10 weeks (60-70 working days) from the date of application. However, this can extend in some cases.
  
  
  
• Application Fee:
  
  
• Single Entry Short Stay Visa: Currently €60.
• Multiple Entry Short Stay Visa: Fees vary based on the duration (e.g., 1-2 years, 2-3 years, up to 5 years); check the official websites for the most current fees.
  
  
  
• VAC Service Fee: Additional, varies by VAC.

• Biometrics Collection (If Applicable): At the VAC.
  
  
• Application Review: By the embassy/consulate.
  
  
• Decision Notification:
  
  
• Approved: Your passport with the visa will be returned or made available for collection.
  
  
• Rejected: A letter will explain the reason for refusal. You may appeal the decision.

• Apply Early: Submit your application as early as possible, but no more than 3 months before your trip.
  
  
  
• Double-Check Documents: Ensure all documents meet the specified requirements.
  
  
  
• Stay Updated: Check the official websites for any changes in requirements or processing times.
  
  
  
• Travel Insurance: Must cover the entire duration of your stay in Ireland.

• Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS): www.inis.gov.ie
  
  
• Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (Ireland): www.dfa.ie
  
  
• Visa Application Centres for Ireland in India: www.vfsglobal.com/ireland/india/
  
  
• Irish Embassy New Delhi: www.dfa.ie/irish-embassy/india/
  
  
• Consulate General of Ireland Mumbai: www.dfa.ie/irish-embassy/india/contact-us/mumbai/