The Ireland visit visa (Short stay 'C' visa) allows non-EEA nationals to visit Ireland for tourism, business meetings, family visits, or other short-term purposes. This visa permits stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Who needs an Ireland Visit Visa?
Nationals of countries like India, China, Russia, Turkey, and many in Africa and Asia need a visa to enter Ireland. However, U.S. citizens do not need a visa for short visits. EU/EEA citizens and other visa-exempt nationals are also visa-free.
Key requirements
- Valid passport with at least 6 months validity beyond your planned stay
- Completed online visa application form
- Two recent passport-sized photographs
- Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements for last 6 months)
- Travel itinerary and accommodation bookings
- Travel insurance covering your entire stay
- Letter explaining purpose of visit
- Evidence of ties to home country (employment letter, property ownership)
How to apply for Ireland Visit Visa in 5 steps
- Complete your visa application online.
- Pay the visa application fee.
- Submit your passport and documents (biometrics if required).
- Wait for processing (usually 8 weeks).
- Receive visa stamp in passport or a refusal notice.
Good to know
- Ireland is not part of the Schengen Area, so a Schengen visa is not valid for Ireland
- Multiple entry visas may be available for frequent travelers
- Visa fees are non-refundable, even if your application is refused
- Processing times may be longer during peak seasons (summer and Christmas)