Step-by-Step Guide
The Irish Immigration Service Delivery (ISD) website is an important source for information. If you are a student from outside the EU, EEA, Switzerland, or the UK and from a country that requires you to obtain a visa to enter Ireland, here’s what you need to know about visas and immigration to study in Ireland.
Check if you need an Entry Visa
Find out if you need a visa to enter Ireland using the visa requirement checker on the ISD website.
Apply for an Entry Visa
If you need a visa, visit the website of your nearest Irish Embassy and fill out the Automated Visa Application Tracking System AVATS form. Further guidelines on this process can be found here .
Arrival in Ireland
When you arrive, present yourself to an Immigration Officer at the airport or port of entry. You will also be required to present certain documents to confirm the purpose of your stay in Ireland. See further details on the ISD website here.
Register Your Immigration Permission
If you plan to study in Ireland for more than 90 days, you must attend a first-time registration appointment in person at Immigration Services Delivery (ISD) Registration Office, 13-14 Burgh Quay, Dublin 2, D02 XK7O, Ireland.
Booking a First Time Registration Appointment
Before you can book an appointment you must register for an account with the ISD Customer Service Portal. The registration fee and list of required documents that you need to bring to your appointment are listed in the Information on first time registration .
Get Your Irish Residence Permit (IRP) Card
After your first time registration appointment your Irish Residence Permit (IRP) card will be posted to you. It will show the type of immigration permission, represented by a stamp number, through which you are legally in the state. If you are a full-time student, you should hold a valid Stamp 2 permission.
Renew Your Registration
When you receive your IRP card, the expiration date will be indicated. Depending on your permission, you may be able to renew it. You can find more information about how to renew your IRP here.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
For answers to common queries and additional guidance, please refer to the ISD’s FAQ section.