Ireland Tourist Visa for Indians: Requirements, Fees & Application Process (2026)

The Ireland tourist visa, officially known as the Short Stay 'C' Visa, is designed for visitors from non-EU/EEA countries who wish to visit Ireland for tourism, leisure, visiting family or friends, or attending short-term events. This visa category is specifically tailored for temporary visits and does not permit any form of employment, whether paid or unpaid.

Key Features of Ireland Tourist Visa 2025-2026

Duration of Stay: The Ireland tourist visa allows you to stay in Ireland for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This means you can spend a maximum of three months in Ireland during a six-month window, making it perfect for extended vacations, family visits, or exploring multiple Irish destinations.

Visa Validity: Most tourist visas are issued as single-entry permits valid for six months from the date of issue. However, multiple-entry visas are also available, which can be valid for up to five years, allowing you to make multiple trips to Ireland during this period. The multiple-entry option is particularly beneficial for frequent travelers or those who plan to visit Ireland multiple times for business meetings, family visits, or tourism.

Entry Types Available:

• Single Entry Visa (SEV): Allows one entry into Ireland during the validity period
• Multiple Entry Visa (MEV): Permits multiple entries over a period of up to five years

It's crucial to understand that overstaying your visa can result in serious consequences, including bans on future travel to Ireland and other countries. Always plan to depart Ireland before your authorized stay expires.

Before submitting your application, it's important to select the correct visa category that matches your travel purpose. The Irish immigration system offers several short-stay visa options:

1. Tourist Visa

This is the most common visa type for Indian travelers visiting Ireland for sightseeing, leisure activities, and exploring Irish culture and heritage. If your primary purpose is tourism and you don't have family or friends hosting you in Ireland, this is the appropriate category.

2. Visit Visa (Family/Friends)

If you're traveling to Ireland to visit family members or friends who are legally residing in the country, you should apply under this category. You'll need to provide an invitation letter from your host along with proof of their legal status in Ireland.

3. Conference/Event Visa

This category is for individuals attending conferences, seminars, workshops, cultural events, or short-term training programs in Ireland. You'll need to provide documentation from the event organizers confirming your participation.

4. Medical Treatment Visa

If you're traveling to Ireland specifically for medical treatment, you'll need to apply under this category with supporting documentation from Irish medical facilities.

Understanding the cost structure is essential for budgeting your Ireland trip. The Irish Embassy in India has set clear fee structures for different visa categories:

Official Visa Fees (As of December 2025)

Important Notes About Visa Fees:

The visa fee is a non-refundable administrative charge that covers the cost of processing your application. This fee cannot be refunded even if your visa application is refused or withdrawn. Exchange rates may fluctuate, so the INR equivalent may vary slightly at the time of payment.

In addition to the visa fee, you may need to pay additional charges including VFS Global service fees (approximately ₹1,500-₹2,000), courier charges for passport return, and optional services like SMS updates or lounge access at VFS centers.

Fee Exemptions

Certain categories of applicants may be eligible for visa fee waivers, including family members of Irish citizens (spouse, children under 18), nationals from specific countries with bilateral agreements, and certain humanitarian cases. However, it's important to note that if you claim a fee waiver that you're not eligible for, your visa application will be refused.

Preparing the right documents is crucial for visa approval. The Irish Embassy has strict requirements, and missing or incomplete documentation is one of the primary reasons for visa refusals. Here's the comprehensive checklist organized by applicant category:

Essential Documents for All Applicants

1. Valid Passport Your Indian passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date from Ireland. The passport should have at least two blank pages for visa stamps. If you have old passports, especially those containing previous visas to Ireland, UK, USA, Canada, Australia, or Schengen countries, include copies of these as they demonstrate your travel history and strengthen your application.
2. Completed Visa Application Form Fill out the online visa application form available on the Irish Immigration Service website with accurate information. Any discrepancies or false information can lead to immediate rejection. Print the completed form, sign it, and include it with your application.
3. Passport-Size Photographs Provide two recent color photographs (taken within the last six months) with the following specifications:

• Size: 45mm x 35mm
• White background
• 70-80% of your face clearly visible
• No glasses, hats, or head coverings (unless for religious reasons)
• Your name and visa application reference number printed on the back

4. Cover Letter Write a detailed cover letter explaining the purpose of your visit, your travel itinerary, accommodation arrangements, and your intention to return to India. This letter should be addressed to the Visa Officer at the Embassy of Ireland and should clearly demonstrate your ties to India.
5. Travel Itinerary Provide a detailed day-by-day itinerary of your planned activities in Ireland, including:

• Flight bookings (confirmed reservations, not tickets - don't purchase tickets before visa approval)
• Accommodation bookings (hotel reservations or invitation letter from host)
• Places you plan to visit
• Transportation arrangements within Ireland

Important Note: The Irish Embassy explicitly states that flight bookings are not required for visa applications, and applicants who book flights before receiving their visa do so at their own risk.

6. Proof of Accommodation You must demonstrate where you'll be staying during your visit:

• Hotel reservations showing your name, dates, and confirmation numbers
• If staying with family/friends: A signed invitation letter from your host including their full contact details, proof of their legal status in Ireland (IRP card copy, passport copy), and proof of their accommodation (utility bills, rental agreement)
• Airbnb bookings with confirmation

7. Travel Insurance Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory and must cover:

• Minimum coverage: €30,000 (approximately ₹26.5 lakhs)
• Medical expenses and emergency hospitalization
• Repatriation costs
• Valid for the entire duration of your stay in Ireland
• Coverage should extend to all Schengen countries if you plan to travel beyond Ireland

Financial Documents (Critical for Approval)

Demonstrating sufficient financial means is one of the most important aspects of your visa application. The Irish authorities need to be convinced that you can support yourself financially during your stay without working illegally or becoming a burden on the Irish state.

For Salaried Employees:

1. Bank Statements

• Last 6 months' bank statements from your primary savings/current account
• Statements must show regular salary credits and healthy account activity
• Minimum balance recommended: ₹1,00,000 to ₹2,00,000 (or €1,000-€2,000 per month of stay)
• Avoid large, sudden deposits just before applying as these raise red flags
• Statements must be original, stamped, and signed by the bank

2. Salary Slips

• Last 3-6 months' salary slips showing your monthly income
• Should clearly display your name, employer details, and salary breakdown

3. Employment Letter A letter from your employer on company letterhead confirming:

• Your designation and employment duration
• Your monthly/annual salary
• Approved leave dates for your Ireland trip
• Confirmation that you'll return to resume your duties
• Company contact details for verification

4. Income Tax Returns (ITR)

• Last 2-3 years' ITR acknowledgments (Form 16 or ITR-V)
• This demonstrates your financial stability and tax compliance

For Self-Employed/Business Owners:

1. Business Registration Documents

• Company registration certificate
• GST registration certificate
• Shop establishment license or trade license

2. Business Bank Statements

• Last 6 months' business account statements
• Proof of business transactions and revenue

3. Income Tax Returns

• Last 2-3 years' business ITR with computation of income
• Audited financial statements if applicable

4. Business Profile

• Brief description of your business
• Proof of business premises (rental agreement, property documents)

For Students:

1. Student ID Card and Enrollment Certificate

• Valid student ID from your educational institution
• Letter from your college/university confirming your enrollment and approved leave

2. Parent's Financial Documents

• If your parents are sponsoring your trip, provide their bank statements, salary slips, and employment letters
• Sponsorship letter from parents stating they'll bear all expenses

3. Academic Documents

• Recent mark sheets and certificates

For Retired Individuals:

1. Pension Documents

• Pension slips for the last 6 months
• Bank statements showing regular pension credits

2. Retirement Proof

• Retirement letter or pension card

3. Additional Income Sources

• Fixed deposit statements
• Property documents
• Investment portfolios

Proof of Ties to India (Crucial for Approval)

One of the primary concerns of visa officers is whether you'll return to India after your visit. Strong ties to India significantly improve your chances of approval. Provide evidence such as:

1. Employment Ties

• Permanent employment letter
• Business ownership documents
• Professional licenses or certifications

2. Family Ties

• Marriage certificate
• Birth certificates of children
• Family photographs
• Proof of family members residing in India

3. Property Ties

• Property ownership documents (house, land, commercial property)
• Rental agreements if you're a landlord
• Home loan documents showing ongoing EMIs

4. Social Ties

• Membership in clubs, societies, or professional organizations
• Community involvement certificates

Additional Documents (If Applicable)

1. Previous Visa Refusals If you've been refused a visa to any country previously, you must declare this in your application and provide:

• Copy of the refusal letter
• Explanation of the refusal reasons
• Evidence showing how circumstances have changed

2. Marriage Certificate If traveling with your spouse, provide your marriage certificate
3. Birth Certificates If traveling with children, provide their birth certificates
4. No Objection Certificate (NOC) If you're a government employee, you may need an NOC from your department

Understanding processing timelines is crucial for planning your trip effectively. The Ireland visa processing time for Indian nationals has specific timelines that you should be aware of:

Standard Processing Times

Official Processing Time: 15-20 working days from the date your application reaches the Irish Embassy in New Delhi.

Realistic Timeline: While the official processing time is 15-20 working days, many applicants report actual processing times of 20-25 working days, especially during peak travel seasons (summer months from May to August, and December holidays).

Recommended Application Timeline: Apply at least 4-6 weeks (30-45 days) before your intended travel date to account for:

• VFS transit time (1-2 working days from VFS center to Embassy)
• Processing time at the Embassy (15-25 working days)
• Passport return time (2-3 working days)
• Buffer for any additional document requests or verification

Factors Affecting Processing Time

Several factors can influence how quickly your visa application is processed:

1. Application Completeness Complete applications with all required documents are processed faster. Missing documents or unclear information can delay processing by 1-2 weeks as the Embassy may request additional documentation.
2. Peak Season Delays During peak travel seasons (May-August for summer tourism, December for Christmas holidays), processing times can extend to 4-6 weeks due to high application volumes.
3. Additional Verification If the Embassy needs to verify your employment, financial documents, or conduct background checks, processing can take longer. This is more common for first-time applicants or those with complex travel histories.
4. VFS Transit Time Applications submitted at VFS centers in Delhi reach the Embassy the next working day, while applications from Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Kolkata, and other cities take 2 working days to reach the Embassy. Processing time starts only after the Embassy receives your application.

How to Track Your Visa Application Status

After submitting your application, you can track its status through:

1. VFS Global Website

• Visit the VFS Global Ireland visa tracking page
• Enter your application reference number and passport number
• Check real-time status updates

2. Email Updates VFS Global sends email notifications at key stages:

• Application received at VFS center
• Application forwarded to Embassy
• Decision made
• Passport ready for collection

3. SMS Updates If you opted for SMS service (additional fee), you'll receive text message updates
4. Embassy Decision Reports The Irish Embassy in New Delhi publishes daily visa decision reports on their website, listing application reference numbers and decision dates.

• Navigating the visa application process can seem daunting, but following these detailed steps will make it straightforward:

  Step 1: Determine Your Visa Type and Eligibility

  Before starting your application, confirm that you need a tourist visa and that you meet the eligibility criteria:

  • You must be residing outside Ireland
  • Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay
  • You must not be on Ireland's list of persons temporarily banned from entry
  • You must comply with Irish immigration and law requirements

  Step 2: Gather All Required Documents

  Using the comprehensive checklist provided earlier, collect all necessary documents. This is the most time-consuming step but also the most critical. Ensure all documents are:

  • Original (with photocopies where required)
  • Legible and clear
  • In English or Irish (certified translations required for other languages)
  • Recent (bank statements, salary slips should be current)
  • Properly formatted (photographs must meet exact specifications)

  Pro Tip: Create a checklist and tick off each document as you collect it. Organize documents in the order specified by the Embassy to make the visa officer's job easier.

  Step 3: Complete the Online Visa Application Form

  Visit the official Irish Immigration Service website and complete the online visa application form:

  Key Points to Remember:

  • Fill out the form accurately with information matching your passport
  • Double-check all dates, names, and addresses
  • Be honest about previous visa refusals or immigration issues
  • Save your application reference number - you'll need it for tracking
  • Print the completed form and sign it

  Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Spelling errors in names or passport numbers
  • Incorrect dates of birth or passport expiry
  • Mismatched information between form and supporting documents
  • Leaving mandatory fields blank

  Step 4: Pay the Visa Fee

  The visa fee must be paid at the VFS Global center when you submit your application. Payment methods accepted:

  • Cash (in INR)
  • Demand Draft in favor of "VFS Services India Private Limited"
  • Credit/Debit cards (at select centers)

  Keep the payment receipt safe as you'll need it for tracking and passport collection.

  Step 5: Book an Appointment at VFS Global

  VFS Global is the official visa application center for Ireland in India. Book your appointment online:

  VFS Global Centers in India:

  • New Delhi: 27 K.G. Marg, Connaught Place (relocated from Shivaji Stadium Metro Station as of December 22, 2025)
  • Mumbai: Mahalaxmi
  • Bangalore
  • Chennai
  • Kolkata
  • Hyderabad
  • Pune
  • Ahmedabad
  • Chandigarh
  • Kochi
  • Jalandhar

  Booking Process:

  1. Visit the VFS Global Ireland visa website
  2. Select "Book an Appointment"
  3. Choose your nearest VFS center
  4. Select available date and time slot
  5. Receive appointment confirmation via email

  Appointment Availability: During peak seasons, appointments may be booked 2-3 weeks in advance. Third-party services like Atlys claim to guarantee appointments within 5-7 days, though these come with additional service charges.

  Step 6: Attend Your VFS Appointment

  On your appointment day, arrive at the VFS center at least 15 minutes before your scheduled time. Here's what happens:

  Document Submission:

  • Present your appointment confirmation
  • Submit your completed application form and all supporting documents
  • VFS staff will review your documents for completeness
  • Original documents will be scanned and returned to you (except passport)
  • Your passport will be retained for visa stamping

  Biometric Data Collection:

  • Digital photograph will be taken
  • Fingerprints (all 10 fingers) will be scanned
  • This is mandatory for all Indian applicants

  Payment and Receipt:

  • Pay the visa fee and VFS service charges
  • Collect your payment receipt and tracking number
  • Opt for additional services if needed (SMS updates, courier return)

  What to Bring:

  • All original documents plus one set of photocopies
  • Passport (will be retained)
  • Appointment confirmation
  • Payment for visa fee and VFS charges
  • Pen for signing documents

  VFS Center Etiquette:

  • Dress appropriately (business casual recommended)
  • Mobile phones may not be allowed inside
  • Be polite and cooperative with staff
  • Don't argue if asked for additional documents - provide them if possible

  Step 7: Application Processing at Irish Embassy

  After VFS forwards your application to the Irish Embassy in New Delhi:

  What Happens:

  • Visa officers review your application and documents
  • They assess your eligibility, financial capacity, and intention to return
  • Background checks may be conducted
  • Employment and financial documents may be verified
  • Additional documents may be requested if needed

  If Additional Documents Are Requested:

  • You'll receive an email from the Embassy
  • Submit the requested documents to VFS within the specified timeframe
  • Failure to provide requested documents will result in refusal

  Step 8: Visa Decision and Passport Collection

  Once a decision is made:

  Approval:

  • You'll receive an email notification
  • Your passport with the visa stamp will be sent to VFS
  • Collect your passport from the VFS center (bring your receipt)
  • Or opt for courier delivery to your address (additional charge)

  Refusal:

  • You'll receive a refusal letter explaining the reasons
  • Your passport will be returned without a visa
  • The visa fee is non-refundable
  • You can appeal the decision or reapply with stronger documentation

  Checking Your Visa: When you receive your passport, immediately verify:

  • Your name is spelled correctly
  • Passport number is correct
  • Visa validity dates match your travel plans
  • Number of entries (single or multiple)
  • Any conditions or restrictions mentioned

  Report any errors to the Embassy immediately.

The British Irish Visa Scheme (BIVS) is a special arrangement that allows Indian and Chinese citizens with valid UK visitor visas to travel to Ireland without obtaining a separate Irish visa. This scheme offers significant convenience and cost savings for travelers planning to visit both the UK and Ireland.

How BIVS Works

Eligibility Criteria:

• You must be an Indian or Chinese passport holder
• You must hold a valid UK visitor visa (not work or study visa)
• Your UK visa must be endorsed with "BIVS" stamp
• You must first enter the UK as a visitor
• You must be within your valid UK leave period when traveling to Ireland

Key Benefits:

• No need for a separate Irish visa
• Cost savings (no additional visa fee)
• Simplified travel between UK and Ireland
• Single visa application process

Important Limitations:

• You MUST enter the UK first - you cannot use BIVS to enter Ireland directly from India
• Your Irish stay is limited by your UK visa validity
• You must maintain valid UK leave throughout your Ireland visit
• BIVS endorsement must be specifically requested when applying for UK visa

How to Apply for BIVS

Step 1: When applying for your UK visitor visa, indicate in your application that you also wish to visit Ireland and request BIVS endorsement.

Step 2: Provide your Ireland travel plans and itinerary as part of your UK visa application.

Step 3: If approved, your UK visa will be stamped with "BIVS" endorsement.

Step 4: Enter the UK first, then travel to Ireland during your valid UK leave period.

Travel Route Example: India → UK (enter with BIVS-endorsed UK visa) → Ireland (no separate visa needed) → UK → India

Short Stay Visa Waiver Programme (SSVWP)

Similar to BIVS, the Short Stay Visa Waiver Programme allows Indian citizens with valid UK visitor visas to travel to Ireland without a separate Irish visa, provided they:

• Hold a valid UK visa
• Have entered the UK as a visitor
• Are within their valid UK leave period
• Travel to Ireland from the UK

Difference Between BIVS and SSVWP:

• BIVS requires specific endorsement on UK visa
• SSVWP is automatic for eligible UK visa holders
• Both serve the same purpose but have different administrative processes

Understanding why visa applications get rejected helps you avoid these pitfalls. Based on official Embassy data and applicant experiences, here are the most common rejection reasons:

1. Insufficient Financial Proof

Why Applications Are Rejected:

• Bank balance too low to support the trip
• Irregular account activity or sudden large deposits
• No clear source of income demonstrated
• Mismatch between stated income and bank statements

How to Avoid:

• Maintain a healthy bank balance for at least 6 months before applying
• Show regular salary credits or business income
• Avoid depositing large sums just before applying
• Provide comprehensive financial documentation (bank statements, ITR, salary slips)
• Recommended minimum balance: ₹1,00,000 to ₹2,00,000

2. Weak Ties to India

Why Applications Are Rejected:

• No evidence of employment or business in India
• No family ties demonstrated
• No property ownership or significant assets
• Visa officer doubts you'll return to India

How to Avoid:

• Provide strong employment letter with leave approval
• Include property documents, family ties evidence
• Show ongoing commitments in India (business, education, family responsibilities)
• Demonstrate social and professional connections in India

3. Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation

Why Applications Are Rejected:

• Missing required documents
• Documents not in English without certified translations
• Photocopies instead of originals
• Expired documents (old bank statements, outdated employment letters)
• Unsigned or incomplete application form

How to Avoid:

• Use the official checklist and verify each document
• Ensure all documents are current (within last 3-6 months)
• Provide certified translations for non-English documents
• Double-check application form before submission
• Include all pages of bank statements and passports

4. Unclear Travel Purpose or Itinerary

Why Applications Are Rejected:

• Vague or unrealistic travel plans
• No accommodation bookings
• Inconsistent information about trip purpose
• Suspicious travel patterns

How to Avoid:

• Provide detailed day-by-day itinerary
• Include confirmed hotel bookings or invitation letters
• Ensure your cover letter clearly explains your travel purpose
• Make sure all documents support your stated purpose

5. Previous Visa Refusals or Immigration Issues

Why Applications Are Rejected:

• Undeclared previous visa refusals
• Overstay history in other countries
• Immigration violations or deportations
• Inconsistent travel history

How to Avoid:

• Always declare previous visa refusals honestly
• Provide explanation letters for past refusals
• Show how circumstances have changed since previous refusal
• Demonstrate clean immigration record if possible

6. Suspicious or Fraudulent Documents

Why Applications Are Rejected:

• Fake bank statements or employment letters
• Forged documents detected during verification
• Inconsistent information across documents
• Documents that cannot be verified

How to Avoid:

• NEVER submit fake or forged documents
• Ensure all documents are genuine and verifiable
• Provide contact details for verification (employer, bank)
• Be honest in your application - dishonesty leads to permanent bans

7. Inadequate Travel Insurance

Why Applications Are Rejected:

• Insurance coverage below €30,000
• Insurance not valid for entire trip duration
• Insurance doesn't cover medical emergencies and repatriation
• No insurance provided

How to Avoid:

• Purchase comprehensive travel insurance with minimum €30,000 coverage
• Ensure coverage includes medical emergencies, hospitalization, and repatriation
• Coverage should be valid for entire Ireland stay plus buffer days
• Get insurance from reputable providers

8. Lack of Travel History

Why Applications Are Rejected:

• First-time international traveler with no visa history
• No previous travel to developed countries
• Concerns about overstaying or illegal immigration

How to Avoid:

• If you're a first-time traveler, provide extra strong ties to India
• Consider building travel history with easier destinations first (Thailand, Dubai, Singapore)
• Provide comprehensive documentation to compensate for lack of travel history
• Show strong financial stability and employment

Based on insights from visa consultants, successful applicants, and Embassy guidelines, here are proven strategies to maximize your approval chances:

Financial Documentation Tips

1. Maintain Consistent Bank Balance Start maintaining a healthy bank balance at least 6 months before applying. Avoid sudden large deposits as these raise red flags. Show regular income and reasonable expenses.
2. Show Multiple Income Sources If you have multiple income sources (salary, rental income, investments), document all of them. This demonstrates financial stability.
3. Avoid Borrowing Money for Visa Don't borrow money from friends or family just to show bank balance. Visa officers can detect unusual deposits and may ask for explanations.
4. Provide Sponsorship Documents Properly If someone is sponsoring your trip, provide:

• Sponsor's bank statements and income proof
• Notarized sponsorship letter
• Relationship proof with sponsor
• Sponsor's passport and visa copies

Application Strategy Tips

1. Apply During Off-Peak Season If possible, apply during non-peak months (September-November, January-March) when processing is faster and visa officers have more time to review applications.
2. Be Honest and Consistent Ensure all information across documents is consistent. Don't exaggerate or provide false information. Honesty is crucial.
3. Write a Compelling Cover Letter Your cover letter should:

• Clearly state your travel purpose
• Explain your ties to India
• Outline your travel itinerary
• Demonstrate financial capacity
• Express your intention to return
• Be concise but comprehensive (1-2 pages)

4. Organize Documents Professionally

• Use a folder or file to organize documents
• Arrange documents in the order specified by Embassy
• Use dividers or labels for different sections
• Include a document index/checklist
• Make it easy for visa officer to review

Travel Planning Tips

1. Book Refundable Accommodations Book hotels with free cancellation policies until you receive your visa. This shows planning without financial risk.
2. Don't Buy Flight Tickets Before Visa Approval The Embassy explicitly states that flight bookings are not required. Only book flights after receiving your visa.
3. Plan Realistic Itinerary Your itinerary should be realistic and achievable. Don't plan to visit 20 cities in 10 days - this looks suspicious.
4. Show Genuine Interest in Tourism Research Irish tourist attractions and mention specific places you want to visit. This demonstrates genuine tourism intent.

Documentation Best Practices

1. Provide More Than Required If you have additional documents that strengthen your case (property documents, investment portfolios, professional certifications), include them.
2. Get Documents Certified For important documents, get them notarized or certified by appropriate authorities. This adds credibility.
3. Provide Translations All non-English documents must have certified translations. Don't rely on Google Translate.
4. Update Documents Before Submission Ensure all documents are current:

• Bank statements: Last 6 months
• Salary slips: Last 3-6 months
• Employment letter: Dated within last month
• ITR: Latest available year

Communication Tips

1. Be Professional at VFS Center

• Dress appropriately
• Be polite and cooperative
• Answer questions clearly and honestly
• Don't argue or get defensive

2. Respond Promptly to Embassy Requests If the Embassy requests additional documents, provide them immediately. Delays can result in refusal.
3. Keep Contact Information Updated Ensure your email and phone number are correct and check them regularly for updates.

Congratulations on receiving your Ireland visa! Here's what you need to do next:

Verify Your Visa Details

Immediately check your visa for:

• Correct name spelling
• Correct passport number
• Visa validity dates
• Number of entries (single/multiple)
• Any special conditions or restrictions

Report any errors to the Embassy within 48 hours.

Book Your Travel

Now you can confidently book:

• Flight tickets to Ireland
• Accommodation (confirm your bookings)
• Travel insurance (if not already purchased)
• Internal transportation in Ireland

Prepare for Travel

Documents to Carry:

• Valid passport with visa
• Travel insurance policy
• Flight tickets (print and digital copies)
• Hotel bookings
• Sufficient funds (cash, cards)
• Emergency contact numbers
• Copy of visa application and supporting documents

At Immigration: Be prepared to show:

• Your passport and visa
• Return flight tickets
• Accommodation proof
• Travel insurance
• Sufficient funds
• Purpose of visit

Understanding Your Visa Conditions

Single Entry Visa:

• You can enter Ireland only once
• Once you exit Ireland, you cannot re-enter with the same visa
• Plan your trip accordingly

Multiple Entry Visa:

• You can enter and exit Ireland multiple times
• Each stay cannot exceed 90 days
• Total stay cannot exceed 180 days in any 365-day period

Important Restrictions:

• You cannot work (paid or unpaid) on a tourist visa
• You cannot study full-time courses
• You must not overstay your authorized period
• You must maintain sufficient funds throughout your stay

Register with Irish Immigration (If Required)

If you're staying longer than 90 days or have specific visa conditions, you may need to register with Irish immigration and obtain an Irish Residence Permit (IRP). Check your visa conditions for requirements.

Stay informed about recent changes affecting Ireland visa applications:

Recent Policy Updates

1. VFS Center Relocation in Delhi (December 2025) The Ireland Visa Application Centre in New Delhi has relocated from Shivaji Stadium Metro Station to 27 K.G. Marg, Connaught Place, New Delhi – 110001, effective December 22, 2025.
2. Biometric Requirements All Indian applicants must provide fingerprints (all 10 fingers) at VFS centers. This is mandatory and cannot be waived.
3. Processing Time Transparency The Embassy now publishes daily visa decision reports on their website, providing transparency about processing timelines and decision dates.
4. Document Verification The Embassy has strengthened document verification processes, particularly for financial documents and employment letters. Ensure all documents are genuine and verifiable.

Brexit Impact

While Brexit doesn't directly affect Ireland visa requirements for Indians, it has impacted the Common Travel Area (CTA) between Ireland and the UK. Indian citizens still need separate visas for both countries unless using BIVS.

COVID-19 Related Changes

As of December 2025, most COVID-19 related travel restrictions have been lifted. However, it's advisable to:

• Check latest travel advisories before booking
• Maintain travel insurance covering health emergencies
• Stay updated on any health requirements

Useful Resources and Contact Information

Official Government Resources

Irish Immigration Service

• Website: www.irishimmigration.ie
• Email: travelrequest@justice.ie

Embassy of Ireland in India

• Address: 230 Jor Bagh, New Delhi 110003
• Phone: +91 11 4940 3200
• Email: newdelhivisa@dfa.ie
• Website: www.ireland.ie/en/india/newdelhi/

VFS Global Ireland Visa Centers

• Website: visa.vfsglobal.com/ind/en/irl/
• Customer Service: +91 11 4969 7200
• Email: info.irin@vfsglobal.com

Helpful Websites

• Irish Tourism Board: www.ireland.com
• Citizens Information: www.citizensinformation.ie
• Irish Immigration Service Delivery: www.irishimmigration.ie

Emergency Contacts in Ireland

• Emergency Services (Police, Fire, Ambulance): 112 or 999
• Indian Embassy in Ireland: +353 1 497 0843
• Tourist Assistance: +353 1 605 7700

Obtaining an Ireland tourist visa as an Indian citizen requires careful preparation, complete documentation, and attention to detail. While the process may seem complex, following this comprehensive guide will significantly improve your chances of approval. Remember these key takeaways:

Essential Success Factors:

• Apply 4-6 weeks before your travel date
• Provide complete and accurate documentation
• Demonstrate strong financial capacity
• Show clear ties to India
• Be honest and consistent in your application
• Maintain realistic travel plans

Common Pitfalls to Avoid:

• Insufficient financial proof
• Incomplete documentation
• Weak ties to India
• Fake or fraudulent documents
• Unrealistic travel itineraries
• Applying too close to travel date

Ireland offers incredible experiences - from the stunning Cliffs of Moher and the vibrant streets of Dublin to the ancient castles and warm Irish hospitality. With proper preparation and a well-documented visa application, you'll soon be exploring the Emerald Isle and creating unforgettable memories.

Start your application process today, follow this guide carefully, and you'll be well on your way to experiencing the magic of Ireland. Safe travels!

Disclaimer: Visa regulations can change without notice. Always verify current requirements through official Irish government sources before applying. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

Last Updated: December 2025

Content Accuracy: This comprehensive guide has been compiled based on extensive research of official government sources, verified travel information, and real experiences of Indian travellers who have successfully obtained Ireland visas.

Expert Contributors: BTW Visas experts team with 15+ years of industry experience, with a 99% visa success rate, and have processed more than 4 lakh+ Visas.