Do I Need a Visa to Study Abroad in Ireland?

Yes, if you are an Indian citizen planning to study in Ireland for more than 90 days, you need a student visa to study abroad in Ireland. This visa is known as the Irish Study Visa or Long Stay ‘D’ Visa, which is mandatory for pursuing full-time undergraduate or postgraduate courses in the country.

Let’s break down the process, requirements, and key details you must know before applying.

Types of Student Visas in Ireland

Depending on the duration and nature of your course, Ireland offers two main types of study visas:

• Short Stay ‘C’ Study Visa: For courses or programs lasting less than 90 days.

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• Long Stay ‘D’ Study Visa: Required for academic courses longer than 3 months, such as bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD programs.

If you’re enrolled in a full-time course recognized by the Irish government, you’ll need a Long Stay D Visa, which also makes you eligible for a residence permit.

Student Visa Requirements for Indian Students

When applying for a study visa to Ireland, here are the key documents and requirements you’ll need:

• A valid passport (must be valid for at least 12 months)

• Letter of acceptance from an Irish university or college

• Proof of payment of course fees

• Proof of sufficient funds (at least €7,000 per year for living expenses)

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• Private medical insurance coverage

• English language proficiency proof (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE accepted)

• Commitment to return to India after course completion

• Passport-sized photographs and visa application form (online)

Financial Requirements

To meet immigration guidelines, Indian students must show proof of financial capability. This includes:

• Recent bank statements (past 6 months)

• Education loan sanction letter (if applicable)

• Sponsor affidavit (if someone else is funding your education)

A minimum of €7,000 (around ₹6.5 lakh) is required for the first year’s living expenses, excluding tuition fees.

How to Apply for an Ireland Student Visa from India

1. Apply online via the AVATS portal

2. Upload all documents and pay the visa fee (~€60–€100)

3. Book an appointment at your local Irish Visa Application Centre

4. Submit biometric data and physical documents

5. Wait for visa processing (typically takes 4–8 weeks)

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How Long Can You Stay on a Study Visa?

A Long Stay D visa allows students to stay for the full duration of their course. Upon arrival, you must register with the Irish Immigration Service to obtain your Irish Residence Permit (IRP), which needs annual renewal.

Can You Work While Studying?

Yes. International students in Ireland on a Long Stay D visa can work up to 20 hours per week during term and 40 hours per week during holidays. However, this is only allowed if you’re enrolled in an eligible full-time program.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Visa Applications

• Not meeting the English language score

• Submitting incomplete financial proofs

• Applying too late (always apply at least 3 months in advance)

• Not including medical insurance documents

Conclusion

To sum it up, you do need a student visa to study abroad in Ireland if your course duration exceeds 90 days. The Long Stay D visa is your gateway to world-class education, part-time work rights, and a multicultural experience in Ireland. Make sure your application is complete, timely, and backed by strong documentation.

For end-to-end guidance on Irish student visas, university selection, and admissions, reach out to AEC Overseas—your trusted overseas education partner.