Ireland visa for indians

Here is the Visa Lounge Gurgaon briefing on Ireland trip

1. Mandatory Document Checklist

The application starts on the AVATS online portal, but physical document submission happens at VFS Global.

• Passport: Original with 6 months validity + Full color photocopies of every single page of your current and all previous passports (This is a unique Irish requirement).

• AVATS Summary Sheet: Printed and signed after completing the online form.

• Photographs: Two identical photos (35mm x 45mm), white background, matte finish.

• Financial Proof (The “6-Month Rule”):

  • Bank Statements: Original stamped/signed statements for the last 6 months.

  • Note: Ireland is very strict about “lump sum” deposits. If you have a large entry, you must provide a written explanation and evidence of its source.

  • Balance: A minimum liquid balance of ₹2 Lakhs per person is recommended.

• Ties to India (Mandatory):

  • Salaried: Detailed NOC from employer and last 3 months’ salary slips.

  • Self-Employed: Business registration and 3 years of ITR.

• Travel Plan: A signed Cover Letter detailing your itinerary. Interestingly, Ireland does not require confirmed flight tickets for the visa application—a tentative itinerary is enough.

Important Information 

• The BIVS “Golden Rule”: If you have a UK Visitor Visa with a “BIVS” endorsement, you can enter Ireland visa-free.

  • Condition: You must land in the UK first. You cannot fly Delhi–Dublin directly on a UK visa.

• Processing Times (Feb 2026): Currently, the New Delhi Visa Office is taking 20–30 working days. However, applications are processed chronologically.

• Short-Stay ‘C’ Visa: This allows you to stay for up to 90 days. It does not permit any work (paid or unpaid).

• Multiple Entry Discretion: First-time applicants are almost always given a Single Entry visa. Multiple entry is usually only granted if you have a proven history of compliant travel to Ireland, the UK, or the Schengen zone.

Can I apply for an Ireland visa online?

Partially. You can fill the application form online and book appointments through Visa lounge website https://visalounge.in/ .

Do Indian citizens need a visa for Ireland?

Yes, Indian citizens planning to visit Ireland must obtain a Short-Stay (C) Visa for tourism or social visits. This visa allows them to stay in Ireland for up to 90 days.

Can I visit Northern Ireland (Belfast) on an Irish Visa? 

 No. Belfast is part of the UK. To visit Northern Ireland, you need a UK Visa. Conversely, if you have a UK Visa (BIVS), you can visit the Republic of Ireland (Dublin).

 How much is the Ireland Visa fee in 2026? 

 The standard fee is €60 (~₹5,500) for single entry and €100 (~₹9,200) for multiple entry. VFS service charges (approx. ₹2,500) are separate.

 Is travel insurance mandatory for the application? 

It is not a legal requirement at the application stage (unlike Schengen), but it is mandatory at the point of entry. Immigration officers at Dublin airport frequently ask to see your insurance certificate before stamping your passport.

 I have a valid Schengen Visa; can I enter Ireland?

 No. Ireland is not part of the Schengen Area. You need a separate Irish visa or a qualifying UK BIVS visa.

What is the most common reason for an Irish visa refusal?

“Finances not adequately explained.” If your bank statement shows a sudden influx of cash or if your income doesn’t match your spending habits, they will refuse. Always provide a “Financial Summary” sheet.

 Are my documents returned?

 Only if you provide a set of photocopies. The Embassy keeps the photocopies and returns your original bank statements and marriage/birth certificates with your passport.

For official Ireland Visa guidelines, visit the https://visa.vfsglobal.com/ind/en/irl/