Country hub
Ireland visas
Whether you need a visa to come to Ireland depends on your nationality. Ireland’s visas are handled by Immigration Service Delivery and the Department of Foreign Affairs, and applications are made online through the AVATS system. Ireland is not part of the Schengen Area, so a Schengen visa does not cover travel here; instead it shares a Common Travel Area with the UK. This hub explains the main visa routes in plain language and links to the official sources so you can confirm exactly what applies to you before you travel or apply.
- Official informationFrom government sources
- Clear guidanceStep-by-step explanations
- Regularly reviewedKept up to date
Important information
Ireland is not part of the Schengen Area, so a Schengen visa does not allow travel to Ireland. Your exact requirements depend on your nationality and the purpose and length of your visit. Certain visa-required nationals who hold a valid UK visa may qualify for the Short Stay Visa Waiver Programme. Always confirm what you need with the official Immigration Service Delivery guidance before you travel or apply.
Find the right Ireland visa for you
Choose the category that matches your plans. Each route explains who it is for, what it covers and how to apply.
Ireland visa overview
How to apply – in 3 simple steps
- Check eligibilityUse the quick checker to confirm which visa you need for your trip.
- Prepare documentsGather your passport, photos and supporting paperwork using our guides.
- Submit & trackSubmit your application and track its progress.
Apply for a Ireland visa
Start an application online and follow the guided steps.
Explore Ireland visa types
Every Ireland route we cover, with a short summary of who it is for.
Ireland Transit Visa
A visa for certain nationals passing through an Irish airport or port on the way to another country, without entering Ireland.
Ireland Short Stay ‘C’ Visa
Ireland’s visa for short visits of 90 days or less — for tourism, visiting family or friends, short business, or short study.
Ireland Long Stay ‘D’ Visa
Ireland’s visa for stays of more than 3 months — for study, work, or joining or moving with a family member to live in Ireland.
Ireland Short Stay Visa Waiver Programme
A programme that lets certain visa-required nationals who hold a valid UK visa travel on to Ireland without needing a separate Irish visa.
Popular Ireland guides
People also asked
Do I need a visa to visit Ireland?
It depends on your nationality. Some travellers are visa-required and others are visa-exempt. British citizens can travel to and live in Ireland under the Common Travel Area. Check the official Immigration Service Delivery guidance to find out what applies to you.
Does a Schengen visa cover Ireland?
No. Ireland is not part of the Schengen Area, so a Schengen visa does not allow travel to Ireland. If you are visa-required, you need an Irish visa (or, in some cases, may qualify for the Short Stay Visa Waiver Programme).
What is the difference between the 'C' and 'D' visas?
The Short Stay ‘C’ Visa is for visits of 90 days or less, while the Long Stay ‘D’ Visa is for stays of more than 3 months, such as study, work or joining family. Confirm the category that matches your purpose on the official guidance.