• You must enrol in and pay for your course before applying for a visa.
• Only full-time courses qualify for a student visa.
• You will need to provide documentation proving your acceptance into an eligible programme.

Once enrolled and fees are paid, you can apply for a long-stay Study Visa (D Visa). This visa allows you to stay in Ireland for the duration of your course.

Visa & Immigration Control

Possessing a visa does not guarantee entry into Ireland. Upon arrival, you must present your passport, visa, course enrolment confirmation, and other supporting documents to an immigration officer. If you cannot satisfy the immigration officer of your genuine intention to study, you may be denied entry.

After arrival, you must register with immigration before the date stamped on your passport at border control. Failure to do so may result in the requirement to leave Ireland.

Bringing Family to Ireland

Generally, international students cannot bring family members to Ireland while studying. Limited exceptions apply, and further details can be found in the Department of Justice’s policy guidelines here.

Working While Studying

Certain international students are permitted to work under Stamp 2 immigration permission. This allows casual, part-time employment without requiring a separate work permit. However, restrictions apply:

• June – September & 15 December – 15 January: Students may work up to 40 hours per week.
• Outside these periods: Students are limited to 20 hours per week.

These restrictions apply per student, not per employer. Exceeding the permitted hours can lead to visa breaches.

The work concession ends when the Stamp 2 permission expires, meaning students cannot work beyond their visa validity.

When to Apply for Your Visa

You should submit your Study Visa application at least three months before your intended travel date to allow sufficient processing time.

For professional assistance with Irish study visas, student immigration permissions, or work rights during your studies, contact Immigration Solicitors today.