Long-Term Residency Visa Applications

A long stay D visa is issued to visa-required applicants who intend to reside in Ireland for employment, study, or family reunification. This includes joining a spouse, civil partner, de facto partner, or parent already residing in the State.

Applicants should apply up to three months before their intended travel date. If traveling from another country before arriving in Ireland, they must have the relevant visa for that country stamped on their passport before applying for an Irish visa.

All applications for D visas are submitted online. Once completed, the system generates a summary application form, outlining the next steps and where to submit supporting documents. This is usually a consulate, visa office, or visa application centre in the applicant’s country or the nearest available location.

Types of Long Stay D Visas

The current long stay visa schemes include:

1. Join Family Visas

For applicants joining family members legally residing in Ireland.

2. Employment Visas

For those seeking work in Ireland under an employment permit.

3. Employment Scientific Research Visas

For researchers under a hosting agreement with a recognised research institution.

4. Employment Vander Elst Visas

For non-EEA employees working for an EU-based employer temporarily assigned to Ireland.

5. Study Visas

For applicants enrolling in full-time, recognised study programmes.

6. Lay Volunteer Visas

For individuals undertaking voluntary work with registered organisations.

7. Minister of Religion Visas

For religious personnel intending to work with religious communities in Ireland.

Required Documents for a Long Stay D Visa

The documentation required will depend on the specific type of visa applied for. However, certain documents are mandatory for all applications.

General Documents Required for All Applications

  • Summary Sheet – Generated after completing the online application.
  • Photographs – Two coloured passport-sized photos (no older than six months), with the applicant’s name and visa application reference number written on the back.
  • Passport Copies – Current passport and full copies of any previous passports. The current passport must be valid for at least 12 months after the intended arrival in Ireland.
  • Signed Letter of Application – Including all necessary details as per the chosen visa category.
  • Visa Refusal History – Any past visa refusals for any country must be disclosed. The original refusal letter issued by the authorities must be submitted. Failure to disclose past refusals will lead to rejection.

Additional Documents That May Be Required

Depending on the visa category, additional documents may include:

  • Letters from a business, company, or organisation
  • Proof of earnings and financial information
  • Personal statements
  • Travel insurance
  • Medical insurance
  • Marriage, birth, or death certificates
  • Any other relevant documents supporting the application

Expert Legal Assistance

Immigration Solicitors have extensive expertise in securing long stay D visas for clients, with a strong success rate in approvals. If you need assistance, our team can guide you through the process to ensure a smooth application.