Study in Ireland
Dreaming of studying in Ireland? To pursue your education here, you must first enroll in a full-time course that’s listed on the Interim List of Eligible Programmes (ILEP). Once enrolled, you may need to apply for a visa (depending on your nationality) to enter the country. If your stay is longer than 90 days, you’ll also need to register for a residence permit after arrival.
At Visawebs, we simplify this process by guiding you step-by-step helping you choose the right visa, prepare your documents, and avoid delays.
Table of Content:
Who Needs a Study Visa?
If you’re a non-EU/EEA citizen (including those outside Switzerland and the UK) planning to live in Ireland for education, you must meet certain requirements. This includes enrolling in an eligible programme and paying your fees in advance. Depending on your nationality, you may also need a visa before traveling.
You will need:- A valid enrolment letter
- Proof of full payment of tuition fees
- Visa (if required) before entering Ireland
What Are My Study Options?
Ireland offers a range of study opportunities for international students. You can choose to study at a university or third-level institution, take an English language course, enroll in a private school, or join a short-term study program.
1. Third-Level Courses or Language CoursesIf you plan to study in Ireland for more than 90 days, you must select a course listed on the Interim List of Eligible Programmes (ILEP). Eligible programs include:
- English language courses lasting at least 25 weeks
- Higher Education programs from Level 6 to Level 10 on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ)
- Professional awards and foundation programs
Applicants from visa-required countries must apply for a Short Stay Visa (C Visa) before traveling. All students must enroll and pay the full course fee before traveling to Ireland.
If you are from a visa-required country, you must obtain a valid visa to study in Ireland entry without a visa is not permitted.
At border control, you’ll need to prove your reason for entering Ireland (such as study) to an immigration officer. Make sure to carry your passport, visa (if applicable), and all supporting documents.If you fail to satisfy the immigration officer, you may be refused entry.
If your child is planning to study in Ireland at the primary or secondary level, they must be enrolled in a private fee-paying school. Parents or guardians must:
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Register the child in a private school
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Pay the full school fees before arrival in Ireland
Types of Study Visas
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Short Stay ‘C’ Study Visa
For courses lasting 90 days or less. Apply from your country of residence. -
Long Stay ‘D’ Study Visa
For programmes longer than 3 months. You must also register with immigration in Ireland upon arrival.
Before and After You Arrive in Ireland
If you are from a visa-required country, you must apply for a student visa before traveling to Ireland.
You can apply up to 3 months before your travel date, and it’s best to begin the process as soon as you accept your course offer.
If your stay is less than 90 days
Apply for a Short Stay ‘C’ Visa.
This visa is suitable for short courses such as English language programs or cultural studies.
You can find more information and the application process on the Irish Immigration website.
If your stay is more than 90 days
Apply for a Long Stay ‘D’ Visa.
This visa allows you to study for longer-term courses such as university or higher education programs.
Make sure you apply well in advance and prepare all supporting documents as per the Irish visa requirements.
When you arrive, you must present your passport, visa or permit, and all other supporting documents to the immigration officer at the airport or port of entry.
The immigration officer will review your documents and decide if you are permitted to enter Ireland.
Even with a valid visa, entry can be refused if the officer is not satisfied with your paperwork or reason for travel.
If you arrive in Ireland with a Long Stay ‘D’ Visa and plan to stay for more than 3 months, you must register with immigration before your landing stamp expires.
During registration, your immigration permission will be extended, and your details will be officially recorded.If you are refused permission to enter Ireland, you will be required to return to the country from which you departed.
To avoid issues, ensure that all your documents are accurate, complete, and ready for inspection before travel.
Application Process
The process involves two main steps:
1. Online Application – Fill the visa form, print the summary, and prepare required documents.
2. Document Submission – Submit originals and translations (if applicable) to the designated visa office in your country.Processing Time: Around 8 weeks, but it may vary due to missing documents, peak season, or personal circumstances.
If your visa is refused, you can appeal the decision with proper guidance.Supporting Documents
When applying for an Ireland student visa, you are required to provide original supporting documents to verify your eligibility and authenticity. These include your enrolment confirmation issued by a recognized Irish educational institution, confirming that you have been accepted into a full-time course listed on the Interim List of Eligible Programmes (ILEP). You must also submit proof of fee payment, showing that you have either paid your tuition fees in full or made the required deposit as specified by your college or university.
A valid passport is mandatory, and it should remain valid for at least twelve months beyond your intended arrival date in Ireland. Along with this, you need to provide your academic and personal records, such as previous educational certificates, transcripts, and any other documents that demonstrate your academic background and qualifications.
If you are submitting letters from a business or institution, they must be printed on official headed paper and include verified contact details to confirm authenticity. In cases where your documents are not in English, you must provide official translations — each translation must clearly state the translator’s name, bear their signature, and include a confirmation of accuracy.
Providing genuine, complete, and verifiable documentation is essential to ensure smooth processing of your visa application and to avoid delays or refusals.
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Have any Questions?
Frequently Asked Questions
What courses or programmes can a non-EEA national study in Ireland?
To study in Ireland as a non-EEA national, you must be enrolled in a full-time course listed on the Interim List of Eligible Programmes (ILEP).
Only full-time, daytime programmes qualify for student permission. Part-time or distance learning courses are not eligible.
How can I check if the programme I want to study is included in the ILEP?
The Interim List of Eligible Programmes (ILEP) covers English language programmes, higher education courses, professional awards, and foundation programmes. These are the only types of courses that qualify non-EEA nationals for student permission in Ireland.
While all providers on the ILEP must meet certain standards such as offering learner protection for enrolled non-EEA students and not accepting fees in cash, the list itself does not guarantee the overall quality of the provider. Students are strongly advised to research the programme and institution carefully before enrolling.
It is also important to review all costs in advance including exam fees and to keep in mind that the lowest price may not always represent the best option. Checking the reputation of the provider and the facilities on offer will help ensure you make the right choice.