Ireland is a true hotspot for tourism, welcoming over 11 million visitors in 2019. The majority of these tourists gain entry into Ireland via the Short Stay ‘C’ Visa, which allows them to visit for up to 90 days.
The question is, do you need a tourist visa when visiting Ireland, and who can skip the visa application process entirely?
Who Needs a Tourist Visa for Ireland?
Most visitors to Ireland require a Tourist Visa. The exceptions to the rule are:
- EU and EEA citizens
- Swiss citizens
- Ukrainian citizens
- UK Short-Stay Visa holders who quality for the Short-Stay Visa waiver or the British-Irish Visa Scheme
- Residence card holders who are related to EEA or Swiss citizens living outside of the EEA and Switzerland
- School students who are visiting Ireland on a school trip from an EU or EEA country
There is also a list of additional countries that are deemed ‘non-visa-required’. Citizens of these countries do not need to get an Ireland Tourist Visa before their visit. This includes:
- Canada
- Ukraine
- Tonga
- Argentina
- Singapore
- Panama
- Tuvalu
- Vanuatu
- New Zealand
- Belize
What are the Eligibility Requirements for an Irish Tourist Visa?
Before applying for the Ireland Tourist Visa, check that you meet the following visa requirements:
- Sufficient funds to support yourself during the trip to Ireland
- Proof of social or economic ties to your home country
- Valid passport (with at least 6 months left)
- Details of any Irish or EU resident relatives
- Willingness to offer information about previous Irish visa applications and to complete the Tourist Visa application form in full
What is the Application Process for an Irish Tourist Visa?
People wishing to visit Ireland must apply online for the Tourist Visa at least 3 months before they plan to arrive in the country. The application form can be found on the Department of Justice website.
Each candidate must answer the questions truthfully and accurately, as well as submitting the relevant documents. They will then receive an application summary that they must print and sign, ready to add to their portfolio of evidence.
The summary will also provide the details of the accommodation office where the candidate must send the application, documents and portfolio.
A payment of €60 is required for tourists who are visiting Ireland once. Multiple-entry tourists pay a fee of €100.
Finally, the full application can be sent to the application office. To check the status of the application, candidates can refer to the Visa Application Transaction Number that is in their application summary sheets.
Which Supporting Documents are Required for the Irish Tourist Visa?
Immigration Service Delivery asks that Tourist Visa applicants provide original documents that are written in English or officially translated by a certified translator.
The requested supporting documents are:
- Valid passport
- Proof of sufficient funds
- Signed application summary sheet
- Two passport-sized photographs (in colour)
- Proof of ties to home country
- Application letter with the candidate’s intent to visit Ireland
- Visa payment receipt
- Accommodation information
- Details of travel dates
- Evidence of travel and medical insurance
- Statement promising to obey the Tourist Visa conditions
- Details of any short-study courses that will be pursued in Ireland (including a confirmation letter)
What is the Processing Time of the Irish Tourist Visa?
Most Ireland Tourist Visa applications are processed within 2 months.
If a tourist leaves their application too late, they won’t be allowed to enter Ireland. This is why we recommend applying at least 3 months in advance.
How Long Can I Stay On a Tourist Visa in Ireland?
Tourist Visa holders can stay in Ireland for up to 90 days. If you would like to experience Ireland for a longer period of time, you will need to apply for a different type of visa.
The ‘D’ Visa is appropriate for people who want to live and work in Ireland for over 3 months.
Legal Advice for the Irish Tourist Visa
Facing Tourist Visa rejection is intimidating, as it is a huge threat to your travel plans. Why not reduce this threat by working with an immigration lawyer who will improve your application?
Candidates with immigration lawyers consistently produce excellent applications with a high chance of approval. You can join them by finding an Irish immigration specialist who understands the ins and outs of the Tourist Visa application process.