You do not need a visa

You do not need a visa to come to Ireland for study, eg to learn the English or Irish language, or for cultural studies. However, you must enroll on and pay for your course of study before you travel.

Your exact preparations depend on your plans and personal circumstances. Some of the most important are described below. Read this information carefully to make sure you have everything you need.

You are from a non-visa required country and you wish to study in Ireland for less than 3 months. Change your answers

 

Before you travel

Enroll on a course & pay for your study

You must enroll on and pay for your course of study (in full) before you travel to Ireland.

Read a longer description of the rules for short term study in Ireland (PDF 45KB).

When you travel

Prepare for border control

You will need to prove that you have a valid reason for entering Ireland to an immigration officer at border control.

To do so you will need your passport and several other documents, eg proof you have paid for your course.

There are extra rules if you are travelling with children under 18.

If you cannot satisfy the immigration officer, you will not be allowed into Ireland.

During your stay in Ireland

Examples of activities you are permitted to do during your visit

You can attend a course of study for up to 90 days (eg English language, Irish language, cultural studies) and do other tourist activities.

If you want to study for longer than 90 days, you must apply for permission and register with immigration.

Travel to Northern Ireland & United Kingdom

If you intend to travel to Northern Ireland, check with the United Kingdom authorities if you need a visa.

Leaving & returning to Ireland

If you plan to leave and come back to Ireland during your stay, you will have prove to an immigration officer that you have a valid reason to re-enter Ireland every time you return.

Make sure you have any necessary documents with you for your return journey, before you travel.

 

Contact

If you have questions, contact us.

Updated: 20 January 2017

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