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All About Ireland Visas for Indians: A Complete Guide

Last Update: 27-08-2024

Ireland Visa For Indians

Quick Summary

Do Indians need a visa to visit Ireland?

Yes, Indians need a Schengen visa (type -C) to visit Ireland.

Processing time

15 to 30 working days

Fees

  • Single Entry Visa: ₹5,300.
  • Multiple Entry Visa: INR ₹9,000.

Validity

Depends on the Embassy

Stay duration

  • Short stay visa: Up to 90 Days
  • National Visa: More than 90 Days

How to apply?

Apply through VFS Global visa application centres in India

Do Indians Need a Visa for Ireland?

Yes, Indian passport holders do need a visa to visit the Republic of Ireland. For short stays, such as for tourism, Indians require a tourist visa which falls under the 'C' category visa. This allows them to stay for up to 90 days.

Table of Contents


  1. Introduction
  2. Types of Ireland Visa for Indians
  3. Ireland Visa Requirements for Indians
  4. How to Apply for an Ireland Visa for Indians?
  5. Photo Specifications for Ireland Visa for Indians
  6. Processing Time for Ireland Visa for Indians
  7. Ireland Visa Fees for Indians
  8. Ireland Visa Extensions for Indians
  9. Visa Rejection Reason for Ireland Visa for Indians
  10. Can I Appeal If my Ireland Visa is Rejected?
  11. Conclusion
  12. FAQs

Introduction

Planning a trip to Ireland from India involves understanding the visa process to ensure a smooth and successful entry into the Emerald Isle.


Whether you're visiting for tourism, business, study, or to join family members, knowing the right type of visa to apply for and preparing your application meticulously are crucial steps.


This guide offers comprehensive insights into the various types of visas available for Indian citizens, the required documents, application procedures, and what to do if your application is unfortunately rejected.


By familiarising yourself with these processes and Ireland visa requirements, you can look forward to an exciting and fulfilling trip to Ireland, equipped with the correct documentation and peace of mind.

Types of Ireland Visa for Indians

Short Stay Visas


Short stay visas are issued for visits of 90 days or less to Ireland, with each type designed for specific purposes and activities, and strict adherence to the conditions of entry is required.


  • Tourist Visa: This visa allows tourists to explore Ireland or engage in some short-term studies for up to 90 days. Holders cannot undertake any form of employment or access publicly funded services. This visa might also allow travel between Ireland and the UK, depending on the holder’s nationality.
  • Business Visa: Suitable for those engaging in business activities such as meetings, negotiations, and short-term contractual work not exceeding 14 days. The visa limits the holder to a stay of 90 days and does not permit use of public services or employment beyond 15 days.
  • Family/Friends Visa: For individuals visiting family or friends residing in Ireland. It’s valid for up to 90 days and requires proof of strong ties to the applicant's home country to ensure compliance with the visa’s duration.
  • Marriage Visa: Intended for those entering Ireland to marry or enter into a civil partnership. Eligibility depends on prior confirmation from the Registrar of Civil Marriages. The stay must not exceed 90 days, and subsequent applications for a Spouse visa are possible.

Long Stay Visas


Designed for stays exceeding 90 days, these visas cater to various long-term purposes such as study, work, or family reunification.


  • Study Visa: For non-EEA nationals aiming to engage in full-time academic courses. Holders of this visa can work part-time and must secure admission in an eligible program to qualify for a Stamp 2 designation.
  • Join a Family Member Visa: This is for non-EEA nationals who want to join family members who are either Irish citizens or legally resident in Ireland. This category may also include family reunification scenarios but is not applicable to EU citizens or individuals with refugee status.
  • Employment Visa: Applicants must first obtain an employment permit from the Department of Jobs, Enterprise, and Innovation. Various permits are available, including critical skills and general work permits, which allow for longer stays and are necessary before applying for the visa.

Ireland Visa Requirements for Indians

Application Summary Sheets

Print, sign, and date the summary sheets from AVATS, and submit them alongside the correct fee and necessary documents. Ensure all required documentation is included to avoid application refusal.

Application Letter

  • Draft a letter stating why you wish to visit Ireland, including:
  • Your full name and address.
  • The reason for your visit.
  • Your travel dates and accommodation details in Ireland.
  • Who will finance your trip.
  • For friend visits, include their details and your relationship proof.
  • For family visits, detail all family members in Ireland and relationship proof, including any in the EU/EEA or Switzerland.
  • Commit to adhere to visa conditions, not to burden the state, and to leave Ireland before your visa expires.

Invitation Letter

  • Request a letter from those you are visiting in Ireland stating:
  • Their invitation reason.
  • Planned visit dates.
  • Your relationship.
  • Include a photocopy of their ID.
  • They must acknowledge your commitment to comply with visa conditions.

Holiday or Vacation Plans

  • Describe your holiday plans and include:
  • Accommodation details and confirmation receipts.
  • Any planned activities or places you will visit.

Study Plans

  • If studying, provide:
  • Institution details and proof of enrollment.
  • Any accommodation details if applicable

Medical or Travel Insurance

Though initially not required with the application, be prepared to present proof of insurance upon entry, as requested by an Immigration Officer.

Passport Requirements

  • Provide your current passport, valid for six months beyond your planned departure from Ireland.
  • Include photocopies of all pages from all previous passports.
  • Describe any travel plans involving countries other than your home or resident country

Passport Photographs

Submit two signed passport-sized colour photographs. Write your Visa Application Transaction Number from AVATS on the back of each photo.

Financial Proof

  • Demonstrate financial sufficiency through:
  • A recent bank statement, certified if printed online.
  • Detail any significant transactions.
  • If sponsored, include a financial estimate from your sponsor along with their bank statement, recent payslips, tax returns, and an employment verification letter.

Insurance Requirements

Obtain travel/medical insurance before travelling; proof may be requested after visa issuance.

Visa Refusal Disclosure

Disclose any past visa or preclearance refusals, deportations, entry refusals, or forced departures from any country with accompanying documentation and explanations.

How to Apply for an Ireland Visa for Indians?

Step 1: Complete the Online Application:


Use the AVATS online visa application system. Visit the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service website, fill out the visa application form online, and print the completed form.


Step 2:  Prepare Your Documents:


Collect all necessary documents for the visa application. If applying with others, organise each person's documents in separate envelopes, labelled with their name and Visa Application Transaction Number. Pack these envelopes into one larger, padded envelope and mail it to the designated application office. Ensure the correct postage is paid for the package size.


Step 3: Schedule an Appointment:


Book an Ireland visa appointment at a Visa Application Centre to submit your biometrics, which includes fingerprints and a photo. You'll receive a confirmation email with the details of your appointment. Remember, each family or group member needs an individual appointment.


Step 4: Pay the Visa Fees:


The fee for a single entry short-stay 'C' visa is INR 5,300/-, and for a multiple entry, it’s INR 9,000/-. Check with the application office for acceptable payment methods and currencies. Note that some applicants, such as certain diplomats or family members of EU citizens, may be exempt from paying fees. Fees are non-refundable, regardless of the outcome of your application.


Step 5: Attend Your Visa Application Centre Appointment:


Go to the Visa Application Centre for your appointment to submit your visa application form and additional documents. This must be done in person

LocationDayOpening hours

Ahmedabad

Monday to Friday

08:00 - 14:00

Bangalore

Monday to Friday

08:00 - 16:00

Chandigarh

Monday to Friday

08:00 - 13:00

Chennai

Monday to Friday

08:00 - 15:00

Cochin

Monday to Friday

08:00 - 15:00

Hyderabad

Monday to Friday

08:00 - 16:00

Jalandhar

Monday to Friday

08:00 - 13:00

Kolkata

Monday to Friday

08:00 - 14:00

Mumbai North

Monday to Friday

08:00-16:00

Mumbai South

Monday to Friday

08:00 - 13:00 and 14:00 - 16:00

New Delhi

Monday to Friday

09:00-16:00

Pune

Monday to Friday

08:00-16:00

Step 6: Track Your Application:


Follow the progress of your visa application online using the Reference Number from your invoice/receipt, along with your last name. Additionally, you may opt into SMS updates if available at your Visa Application Centre for more detailed Ireland visa status.


Step 7: Passport Return via Courier:


After processing, your passport will be returned to you via courier. This service is mandatory, ensuring you receive your documents safely without needing to return to the Visa Application Centre.


By following these steps, you can efficiently apply for an Ireland visa from India, ensuring all procedures are correctly followed for a successful application.

Photo Specifications for Ireland Visa for Indians

Dimensions:


  • Size: Each photo should measure between 45-50mm in height and 35-38mm in width.
  • Content: The photos must prominently feature your face and the top of your shoulders, with your face covering 70% to 80% of the frame.

Recentness:

  • Age: Ensure the photos are recent, taken within the last six months, and display identical images.

Quality of Paper:


  • Material: The photos should be printed on high-quality photographic paper.
  • Back of Photo: The reverse side must be white and unglazed.

Image Quality:


  • Colour: Photos must be in colour, against a plain white or light grey background.
  • Clarity: Images should be sharp, well-exposed, with natural skin tones and good contrast. Ensure there are no shadows, glare, or red-eye effects.

Pose:


  • Alignment: Keep your head centred and look straight at the camera with your entire face visible.
  • Expression: Maintain a neutral expression with your eyes open and mouth closed, and ensure no hair covers your eyes.

Accessories:


  • Glasses: Regular glasses are permissible as long as they do not obscure your eyes. Sunglasses or tinted lenses are not allowed.
  • Head Coverings: Avoid any headwear unless worn for religious reasons. Ensure your face is fully visible if wearing a religious head covering.

Preparing the Photos:


  • On the back of each photo, clearly write your name and visa application or transaction number in block capitals. For re-entry visa applications, the transaction number is not required.
  • Place the photos in the same envelope as your application form without stapling or attaching them directly to any document.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure your passport photos meet the requirements for Ireland visa for Indians application, helping to streamline the process.

Processing Time for Ireland Visa for Indians

Ireland visa processing times listed below represent the median duration, indicating that while many applications are processed within these times, some may take longer due to various factors. To mitigate the risk of unexpected delays affecting your travel, it's advisable to apply for your visa six to eight weeks before your intended travel date.

Important Note on Travel Arrangements

Applicants are advised not to book flights until they have received their visa. Booking flights prior to visa approval is at the applicant's own risk and expense, should the visa not be issued in time.

Understanding Processing Times: The times stated do not include the duration needed to schedule a VFS appointment, nor the transit time for documents to be sent to or from VFS. It's important to note that 'working days' refer to business days only, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and any dates the office is closed

Median Processing Times

Visa CategoryMedian Processing Time (Working Days)

Visit

25

Business/Conference/Event

10

Employment

10 to 35

Family Reunion

35

Study

25

Other

25

Appeals

40

These timelines are designed to help applicants plan their applications accordingly, taking into account both processing times and any external factors that may influence the duration.

Ireland Visa Fees for Indians

Standard Visa Fees:


  • Single Entry Visa: The fee for a single entry Ireland visa is INR ₹5,300.
  • Multiple Entry Visa: For those requiring multiple entries, the fee is INR ₹9,000.
  • Transit Visa: The cost for a transit visa is INR ₹2,225

Additional Charges through VFS: When submitting your application via VFS, be aware that there are service charges in addition to the basic Ireland visa fees. Furthermore, opting for supplementary services such as the VFS Check and Verify service will incur extra costs.

Ireland Visa Extensions for Indians

Upon arriving in Ireland, visitors may be granted permission to stay for up to 90 days by the Immigration Officer at the port of entry, irrespective of whether a visa was required.


Eligibility for Extension: Extensions of visitor permission might be considered if:


  • Your initial visitor permission is still valid.
  • You entered Ireland on a 'C' visit visa within the last 90 days.
  • You've experienced an unexpected change in circumstances since arrival, or you are medically unfit to travel (certified by a doctor).

Ineligibility for Extension: You cannot apply for an extension if:


  • You hold a permission type other than visitor permission.
  • You lack immigration permission or are waiting for another immigration application's outcome.

Invalid Reasons for Extension: Applications for extension will be refused if:


  • Your circumstances haven't changed since entry or visa issuance.
  • Your purpose is seeking medical treatment, marriage, providing childcare, or transitioning to permanent residency.

How to Apply for an Extension:

If Granted Less Than 90 Days Initially:


  • Visit your local immigration office with your passport and departure flight details to request an extension up to 90 days.

If Extending Beyond 90 Days Due to Unexpected Circumstances:


  • Apply to the Immigration Service Delivery. Applications can be submitted via email for quicker processing at DRPCustomerservice@justice.ie, or by post to:

Immigration Service Delivery

Unit C – Domestic Residence and Permissions Division

Department of Justice

13-14 Burgh Quay, Dublin 2, D02 XK70


Required Documentation:


  • Completed Application Form.
  • Copies of your passport's biodata page and the page with your entry stamp.
  • Proof of private medical insurance covering your stay.
  • Evidence of sufficient funds for the duration of your stay in Ireland.
  • Any relevant supporting documents, such as medical reports.

Applying within these guidelines will ensure a streamlined process for extending your visitor permission in Ireland.

Visa Rejection Reason for Ireland Visa for Indians

When applying for an Ireland visa for Indians, it's important to understand the common pitfalls that can lead to a visa rejection. Based on previous rejection reasons, here is a summary of typical issues that applicants from India might encounter:


  1. Unsigned Application Form: One of the fundamental requirements is ensuring that the visa application form is completed and signed. An unsigned application form is a common reason for immediate rejection as it indicates that the form has not been duly verified by the applicant.
  2. Insufficient Obligation to Return: Visa officers need to be convinced that the applicant has strong ties to their home country that will compel them to return after their visit. This could be demonstrated through job commitments, family ties, or ongoing educational courses.
  3. Non-compliance with Visa Conditions: Applicants must clearly demonstrate that they understand the conditions of the visa and have intentions to adhere to them. This includes respecting the visa’s purpose and duration. A lack of assurance that these conditions will be observed can lead to rejection.
  4. Insufficient Documentation: Providing incomplete documentation is a major reason for visa denials. Applicants should carefully review the required documents list on the official INIS website and ensure that all requested paperwork is complete and accurate.
  5. Inappropriate Visa Type for Purpose of Visit: For instance, applying for visas that allow family members to accompany on short-term research trips may be rejected if the policy generally does not support such arrangements, as family visits are not typically considered necessary for short-duration academic or research stays.

Understanding these common rejection reasons can help future applicants ensure their applications are complete, properly documented, and aligned with the visa requirements, thus enhancing the likelihood of approval.

Can I Appeal If my Ireland Visa is Rejected?

How to Appeal an Ireland Visa Rejection

If your Ireland visa application is rejected, you'll receive a refusal letter explaining the reasons for the decision and whether you have the right to appeal. Here’s how you can proceed if you are eligible to appeal:


Eligibility and Timing for Appeal:


  • You can appeal if your refusal letter grants you the right to do so.
  • The appeal must be submitted within two months from the date on the refusal letter.
  • Submitting an appeal is free of charge.

Conditions Where Appeal May Not Be Possible:


  • If the refusal was due to providing false or misleading information, you might be blocked from applying for a visa for up to five years.

Who Can Appeal:


  • Adults (aged 18 or over) can appeal their own visa decisions or on behalf of someone else if authorised (e.g., as a legal representative or family member).
  • Minors (under 18) must have their appeal submitted by a parent or legal guardian.

Steps to Appeal Your Visa Decision:

Write an Appeal Letter:


  • Clearly state your intention to appeal the visa decision.
  • Include your full name, postal address, personal email, and Visa Application Transaction Number.
  • Explain why you believe the decision should be overturned, referencing specific reasons stated in your refusal letter.
  • Add any new information or documents that support your appeal.
  • Sign and date your letter.

Gather Supporting Documents:


  • Include any relevant documents that may strengthen your appeal. Ensure these documents comply with the visa appeal rules

Include Your Passport (if required):


  • Check your refusal letter to see if you need to include your original passport with your appeal.
  • Only send your passport if explicitly requested in the refusal letter.

Submission:


  • Send your appeal letter and any supporting documents by post to the Embassy of Ireland, New Delhi.

By following these steps, you can ensure your appeal is processed efficiently and increases your chances of a favourable reconsideration of your visa application.

Conclusion

Navigating the Ireland visa application process can seem daunting, but with the right information and preparation, it becomes manageable and straightforward.


This guide aims to equip Indian travellers with all the necessary information to apply for an Irish visa, covering everything from the types of visas available to the specific documents needed and the fees involved.


Remember, the key to a successful application is to apply well in advance of your travel date, ensure all your documentation is correct and complete, and understand the reasons behind visa requirements and regulations.


With careful planning and adherence to the guidelines provided, you'll be well on your way to enjoying the rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and warm hospitality of Ireland.

FAQs

What is the cost of a visa for Ireland from India?

The fee for a single entry short-stay 'C' visa is INR ₹5,300, and for a multiple entry visa, it's INR ₹9,000. The transit visa fee is INR ₹2,225. These fees are subject to change and do not include additional service charges.

What documents are required for an Ireland visa application for Indians?

You will need a completed application form, a valid passport, recent passport-sized photographs, proof of financial means, an itinerary of your travel plans, accommodation details, and a letter explaining the purpose of your visit. Additional documents may be required depending on the specific visa type.

Can the Ireland visa application fee be refunded if my application is rejected?

The visa application fee is non-refundable. If your visa application is rejected or you decide to withdraw your application, the fee will not be returned.

How early should I apply for an Ireland visa before my planned travel date?

It's recommended to apply for your visa at least 6 to 8 weeks before your planned travel date. This allows ample time for processing and addresses any potential delays.

Is travel insurance mandatory for an Ireland visa for Indians?

Yes, travel insurance is mandatory for Indian citizens applying for an Ireland visa. The insurance must cover medical expenses and repatriation for the duration of your stay.

What should Indians do if their Ireland visa application is denied?

If your visa application is denied, review the reasons in the refusal letter. You can appeal the decision if allowed, or reapply by addressing the refusal reasons and submitting a new application with complete and correct information.

Can Indians extend their stay in Ireland with a visa ?

If you are in Ireland on a visitor visa and have a valid reason, such as a sudden change in personal circumstances or health issues, you may apply for an extension. However, routine extensions are not generally granted, and you must provide compelling evidence to support your request.

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