Guide- To Apply For Ireland Visa In India
The island of Ireland is one of the largest islands in Europe and is surrounded by the Atlantic ocean. With an Ireland visa, you can enter the country and enjoy everything it has to offer. Ireland is known for its stunning beauty, its culture, as well as the entrepreneurship culture, making it a top travel destination.
How to Apply for Ireland Visa from India?
The application for the Ireland visa for Indians is done online, however the process is offline. The application submission must be done at one of the Ireland Visa Application Centres (VAC) across India. Before starting the application, ensure that you are eligible to apply for the particular category you are applying for. After this, you can proceed to make the application as follows -
- Acquire all the necessary documents you will need for the particular Ireland visa types.
- Visit the website of the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service and enter the online portal and fill in your Ireland visa 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 Ireland online visa application form.
- Along with the payment confirmation, appointment confirmation, and the documents, visit the respective VAC for your appointment. You will also have to submit your biometrics here.
Ireland Visa Types
Based on the main purpose of the visit and the duration of permitted stay, the Irish permits can be classified into the following -
- Short stay - Also known as the C type, this permit is issued for a duration of up to 90 days. Based on the exact purpose of the visit, they can be further classified as the following main types -
- Tourist - This is issued for individuals travelling to the Republic of Ireland for the purpose of taking part in tourism-related activities.
- Business - This type is granted for businessmen who are looking to engage in business activities in Ireland.
- Family or Friends - Also known as the visit permit, this allows you to visit your family members or friends living in the country.
- Conference or Events - This type is issued to people travelling to take part in conferences, symposiums, and other events in the country.
- Training - The training permit allows you to take part in training courses in Ireland.
- Employment - Also known as the Atypical Working Scheme, this permit lets people enter the country for the purpose of taking part in short-term work.
- Long stay - Also known as the D visa, these let you enter the country and stay there for more than 90 days. As per the purpose of the visit, these can also be classified into the following types -
- Study - This is issued for people visiting Ireland to take part in long-term studies.
- Family Reunion - This category lets you join your family members living in the Republic of Ireland.
- Employment - The job permit lets people enter the country to take part in work for a long duration.
Since most applications from India are for the short term category, through this article, we will be focusing on the C visas.
Documents Required for Ireland Visa from India
As per the Ireland visa application requirements, the following are the general list of documents you would have to submit. However, note that based on the exact type of the permit, there will be additional supporting documents necessary.
- A passport valid for at least 6 months from the expected date of travel
- 2 passport size photographs
- Travel itinerary
- Confirmed round trip flight tickets
- Proof of accommodation - Hotel bookings, an invitation letter from hosts, etc
- Proof of return - payslips, rental agreements, proof of enrollment, etc
- Proof of sufficient funds - bank statements
- Documents showing the purpose of visit
Ireland Visa Photo Size
- Dimensions: 35mm X 45mm
- Colour: Coloured
- Head must occupy the central position
- Must be recently captured within the last 3 months
- Background: Solid, plain white or grey
- 70-80% face coverage
- Neutral expression
- Glasses: Non-thick framed and prescription are permitted
- Headgears are allowed only for religious reasons
- Facial hair - permitted
Processing Time for Ireland Visa
The time taken to process the Irish permit depends on the type of the permit, the number of entries, the volume of applications at the embassy, as well as on your previous travel history. It can take up to 8 weeks from the date of document submission to get your tourist visa. As a result, you are advised to apply for it well in advance.
Ireland Visa Fees for Indians
The total fees for the Ireland visa for Indian citizens depends on the exact type of the permit, the duration of stay, as well as the foreign exchange rates. Additionally, there may be biometric charges as well as any other service charges. As a result, it is suggested that you check the exact amount before starting your application.
| Entry | Purpose | Stay Duration | Validity | Fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single entry Normal | Transit | 1 month | 3 months | 3400.0 |
| Multiple entry Normal | Business | 1 month | 3 months | 8500.0 |
| Single entry Normal | Business | 1 month | 3 months | 5800.0 |
| Single entry Normal | Tourist | 1 month | 3 months | 5800.0 |
| Single entry Normal | Sports | 1 month | 3 months | 5800.0 |
| Multiple entry Normal | Tourist | 1 month | 3 months | 8500.0 |
How to Check Visa Status?
You can check the status of your application by clicking here and entering the reference number and your email address. You can also contact your travel agency to have them track it for you.
Where Can I Apply for Ireland Visa?
The applications for the Irish permit has to be made online via the portal. The application is then submitted at a VAC that is located in the major cities across India. Despite the fact that you have made the application at the VAC, the application is processed by the Ireland Embassy in New Delhi. The VAC has no influence on the decision making of the visa.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Can I Extend My Ireland Visa?
It is not possible to extend the Irish short term permits. However, the long term categories may be extended. Although, the long term permits generally have a stay back period allowed. Despite these, in certain extreme circumstances, the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service may grant you an extension.
What is the Medical Test for the Irish Visa?
As per the Ireland visa requirements for Indian citizens, there is no medical test mandatory for the short term permits. The long term applications may require you to possess a certificate to show good health. In either case, it is suggested that you get a medical check-up done before travelling to Ireland.
How Much Bank Balance is Required to Get an Irish entry permit?
There is no fixed amount that is required to apply for the permit. As per the embassy regulations, you must be able to prove that you have enough funds to cover the entire duration of stay. Moreover, you are also required to have a steady bank account. In case there is a sudden change of funds, you will be asked to provide a letter explaining those.
How many months before the trip should I apply for an Irish Permit?
Since the Irish permit can take up to 8 weeks to be delivered to you after submission at a VAC, it is suggested that you apply well in advance. However, you are not allowed to make an application for more than 3 months prior to your intended travel date.
Can postal savings be used as funds for an Ireland visa?
Yes, the proof of funds must be such that they should cover your entire expenses in the country. This should include food, accommodation, travel, etc. However, note that these funds must be liquid, i.e they must be easily accessible when you require them. You will also have to provide proof that these can be withdrawn and used whenever required.
Can I visit the UK with a Irish visa?
Yes, you will be able to visit the UK with an Irish visa, provided that it is a short-term C visa, and that you enter the Ireland first, and then travel to the UK. This is thanks to the BIVS Scheme according to which the UK and Ireland short term entry permits can be used to enter each other.
Will a Schengen visa affect your Irish visa application?
Yes, to a certain extent. A Schengen permit is considered highly among the world. As a result, having previously held a Schengen, the consular officer processing your application is likely to approve it, provided that your stay in the Schengen has been according to the rules. This can also have the processing done faster.
