The Complete Guide to Obtaining an Irish Student Visa – Brought to You by Student Career Consultancy

Ireland is fast becoming a top destination for international students, offering globally recognized universities, permanent residency opportunity, a vibrant culture, and access to the European job market. But before you pack your bags for the Emerald Isle, there’s one important step: securing your Irish Student Visa.

At Student Career Consultancy, we specialize in turning aspirations into achievements. Student Career Consultancy is here to streamline the process. With hands-on experience Student Career Consultancy is relentlessly working for helping students navigate the visa journey, we’re your trusted partner in making your academic aspirations abroad a reality.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through every crucial step from visa types and application stages to required documents, costs, and timelines.

Types of Irish Student Visas

When applying to study in Ireland, your visa type depends on the length of your course:

1. Long Stay ‘D’ Visa (Student Visa)

  • Required for full-time academic programs lasting longer than 90 days
  • Applicable for bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD-level courses
  • Work rights: Permits part-time work (up to 20 hours/week during term, 40 hours/week during holidays)

 

Key Requirements for an Irish Student Visa

To be eligible for a Long Stay ‘D’ Visa, you must meet the following:

🔹 Academic & Enrollment Requirements

  • A valid Letter of Acceptance from a recognized Irish educational institution
  • The course must be full-time and listed on the Interim List of Eligible Programmes (ILEP)
  • Meet academic entry criteria for the chosen course

🔹 English Language Proficiency

  • Accepted test scores:
    • IELTS: Minimum 6.0–6.5 depending on the course
    • TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo
  • Language test must be taken withintwo years prior to application

🔹 Financial Proof

  • You must demonstrate access to at least €10,000 for annual living expenses
  • Proof of paid tuition fee or a minimum deposit paid
  • Accepted financial documents include:
    • Bank statements (6-month history)
    • Education loan letters
    • Financial guarantor documents

🔹 Genuine Intentions

  • You must prove that your intention is to study, not immigrate permanently
  • A clear statement of purpose is vital
  • You must leave Ireland upon course completion unless legally authorized to stay

🔹 Health Insurance

  • All students must have private medical insurance valid in Ireland
  • Some institutions include insurance as part of the tuition package

Step-by-Step Guide to the Irish Student Visa Application

Follow these steps to submit a successful visa application:
  1. Receive Your Offer Letter Apply and secure admission from an Irish college or university
  2. Pay Tuition Deposit Institutions may require part or full fee payment in advance
  3. Gather Supporting Documents Include academic records, financial proof, and English test scores
  4. Apply for Visa Online via AVATS Complete the online application at www.visas.inis.gov.ie
  5. Pay the Visa Fee Standard fee: €60 (single entry) / €100 (multiple entry)
  6. Submit Biometrics & Documents Required at the nearest Visa Application Centre (VAC)
  7. Attend an Interview (If Required) You may be invited for an in-person or virtual interview by the Irish Embassy
  8. Track Your Application Use the VAC’s tracking system or contact the Irish Embassy in your country

Documents Checklist

Prepare the following documents for submission:

  • Valid passport (with at least 12 months’ validity)
  • Letter of Acceptance from the Irish institution
  • Proof of tuition fee payment or deposit
  • Evidence of sufficient funds (bank statements, loan approval)
  • English language test results (IELTS/PTE/TOEFL)
  • Private medical insurance certificate
  • Four recent passport-sized photographs
  • Statement of purpose detailing academic goals and plans
  • Proof of accommodation in Ireland
  • Police clearance certificate
  • Completed AVATS application summary sheet and signed declaration

Bangladeshi Applicants: All documents not in English must be translated and notarized. Additional scrutiny may be applied to financial and background documents.

Visa Fees and Processing Time

Fee TypeCost
Single-entry Visa€60
Multiple-entry Visa€100
Biometric ProcessingVaries by location
Medical Insurance€150–€300/year (depending on provider)

Processing Duration

  • Average Time: 4–8 weeks
  • Bangladeshi Students: Should apply at least 3 months before the intended travel date due to document verification and embassy workloads

Post-Visa: What Comes Next?

  • Book Flights Early: Avoid last-minute price hikes
  • Secure Housing: Choose between university dorms, private rentals, or shared accommodations
  • Prepare for Arrival: Have original documents and visa approval letters ready
  • Complete Immigration Registration: Within 90 days of arrival, register with Irish Immigration (GNIB/INIS)

Working While Studying in Ireland

International students with a Long Stay ‘D’ Visa can work:

  • Up to 20 hours per week during term time
  • Up to 40 hours per week during holidays (summer and winter breaks)

Ensure your course is listed on the ILEP to enjoy work rights.

Tips for a Successful Application

  • Start Early: Leave ample time for documentation and embassy processing
  • Be Honest & Clear: Your Statement of Purpose must reflect genuine intent
  • Organize Financial Documents: Incomplete financial proof is a leading cause of rejections
  • Consult with Experts: Our team at Student Career Consultancy offers tailored support at every step

Why Choose Ireland for Your Studies?

  • High-quality education and research institutions
  • Post-study work rights (up to 2 years) for graduates
  • Safe, multicultural environment
  • Gateway to Europe for jobs and travel
  • English-speaking country with rich cultural heritage

Let Student Career Consultancy Lead the Way

Applying for an Irish student visa can seem complex, but it doesn’t have to be. With Student Career Consultancy, you get expert guidance, document support, and personalized counseling ensuring your transition to Irish academic life is smooth and stress-free.

📞Call at +8801730523861 & connect with us today and take your first step toward studying in Ireland. Student Career Consultancy – Facilitating Easy Access to Global Education