- What is the British-Irish Visa Scheme (BIVS)?
The British-Irish Visa Scheme (BIVS) is a visa program that enables non-European nationals to travel freely between the United Kingdom (UK) and Ireland using a single visa. It simplifies travel for business or tourism purposes between the two countries while maintaining border controls.
Introduced in 2014, the scheme is particularly beneficial for visitors from countries like India and China, where the scheme is most commonly used.
- How Does the BIVS Work?
Under BIVS:
- Visitors can enter the UK or Ireland with a single visa issued by either country, provided it is marked with BIVS.
- You must first enter the country that issued the visa before traveling to the other. For example:
- If issued a UK visa, you must enter the UK before traveling to Ireland.
- If issued an Irish visa, you must enter Ireland before traveling to the UK.
- Who is Eligible for BIVS?
BIVS is available to citizens of certain countries. Currently, it is open to nationals from:
- India
- China
Other nationalities may be eligible for future expansions of the scheme.
- Visa Types Covered by BIVS
The scheme applies to:
- Short Stay Visitor Visas (e.g., business, tourism).
- Certain family or friend visit visas.
It does not apply to long-term visas, work visas, or student visas.
- Benefits of BIVS
- Convenience: Apply for a single visa instead of separate ones for the UK and Ireland.
- Cost Efficiency: Save money by paying for one visa rather than two.
- Streamlined Travel: Travel easily between the UK and Ireland without additional immigration checks.
- How to Apply for a BIVS Visa?
- Step 1: Determine Your Primary Destination
Decide whether the UK or Ireland will be your primary entry point, as the issuing country will depend on your itinerary. - Step 2: Apply for the Appropriate Visa
Apply for a Short Stay Visitor Visa through either:- UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) for a UK visa.
- Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) for an Irish visa.
- Step 3: Ensure the Visa is Marked “BIVS”
Check that your visa includes the BIVS endorsement, allowing free movement between the two countries.
- Travel Conditions Under BIVS
- You must first enter the issuing country (e.g., enter the UK first if your visa was issued by the UK).
- You can then travel to the other country without needing a separate visa.
- Your total stay across both countries must not exceed the validity period of your visa.
- Documents Required for a BIVS Visa Application
- Valid passport.
- Completed visa application form for the UK or Ireland.
- Proof of travel plans (e.g., flight tickets, accommodation).
- Financial proof to show you can support your stay.
- Invitation letters or purpose of travel documentation (if applicable).
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I work in the UK or Ireland on a BIVS visa?
No, the BIVS visa is strictly for short-term visits and does not allow work or study. - What happens if I don’t enter the issuing country first?
You may be refused entry if you do not enter the country that issued your visa before traveling to the other. - Can I extend my BIVS visa?
No, BIVS visas are not extendable. You must leave the countries once the visa expires. - Does BIVS apply to all visa types?
No, it only applies to short-term visitor visas, not long-term visas like work or student visas. - What are the fees for a BIVS visa?
Fees vary depending on whether you apply through the UK or Ireland. Check the respective country’s visa application website for up-to-date fees. - Is BIVS available for other countries besides India and China?
Currently, BIVS is only available for citizens of India and China, but the program may expand in the future.
- Conclusion
The British-Irish Visa Scheme (BIVS) simplifies travel between the UK and Ireland for eligible visitors, offering convenience and cost savings. By understanding the application process and travel requirements, you can make the most of this innovative visa program for tourism or business purposes.