How to get a Ireland student visa: fees, funds, documents and timeline
Long stay 'D' study visa (visa-required nationals) and IRP registration at a glance
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Visa | Long stay 'D' study visa (visa-required nationals) and IRP registration |
| Application fee | €60 single entry, €100 multiple entry; €300 IRP registration on arrival |
| Health cover | Private medical insurance, budgeted above |
| Funds to show | €10,000 available to you, plus proof that fees are paid or funds to pay them. Some students are asked for a higher figure; recent policy raised the living-cost expectation to €12,000 for longer courses |
| Validity | Renewed yearly at registration for the length of the course |
| Post-study route | Third Level Graduate Programme (Stamp 1G): 24 months after a master's or PhD, 12 months after an honours bachelor's |
How to apply, step by step
- Accept the offer and pay the required part of the fees
- Apply online through AVATS and post documents to the embassy or VFS
- Wait 4 to 8 weeks for a decision
- On arrival, register with immigration for your Irish Residence Permit (IRP) card
- Renew the permission each year until you graduate
Documents checklist
- Letter of acceptance showing course, fees paid and duration
- Proof of funds and, if used, a loan sanction letter
- Private medical insurance
- Evidence of English ability if required
- Letter of application explaining your study plan
- Passport, photos, prior education documents
Financial evidence
€10,000 available to you, plus proof that fees are paid or funds to pay them. Some students are asked for a higher figure; recent policy raised the living-cost expectation to €12,000 for longer courses. Education loans from recognised lenders are accepted. Money must be in your name or a parent's with a consent letter, and statements must be recent. Our loan partners issue sanction letters that visa offices recognise.
After you graduate
Third Level Graduate Programme (Stamp 1G): 24 months after a master's or PhD, 12 months after an honours bachelor's. Work without a permit while you look for a role that qualifies for a Critical Skills or General Employment Permit.
Working on a student visa
20 hours a week in term, 40 hours a week in June to September and mid-December to mid-January. Minimum wages of €13.50 an hour national minimum wage (2025).
Figures are indicative for the 2026/27 cycle, change with exchange rates and policy, and should be confirmed with the university or the relevant government before you decide.
Get this checked for your case
Rules change and every application is different. A counsellor confirms the current position for your country and course. Free.
Talk to a counsellorRelated questions
How much money do I need for an Irish student visa?
You must show €10,000 in accessible funds plus fee payment, and recent guidance points to €12,000 for courses longer than a year. Money in your own or your parents' account, or a sanctioned education loan, is accepted.
Can I stay in Ireland after my master's?
Yes. Stamp 1G gives master's graduates 24 months to work and look for a permit-qualifying job. Roles on the Critical Skills list (most tech, engineering, health) lead to a permit and, after two years, Stamp 4 residence.
Is a study gap accepted in Ireland?
Universities accept gaps with an explanation. Immigration looks at whether the study plan makes sense; a clear letter of application and evidence of what you did in the gap usually resolves it.