A Long Stay Visa (also known as a D visa) allows non-EEA (European Economic Area) nationals to stay in Ireland for more than 90 days. This type of visa is necessary for those who plan to study, work, or join family members in Ireland on a long-term basis. Here’s everything you need to know about long stay visas, including types, eligibility, required documents, and application steps.
1. What is a Long Stay Visa (D Visa) in Ireland?
The Long Stay Visa is an entry visa for individuals who intend to reside in Ireland for an extended period (more than 90 days). It’s typically required for non-EEA nationals who plan to:
- Work or establish a career in Ireland
- Study at an Irish educational institution
- Join a family member (such as a spouse or parent) who is legally residing in Ireland
Once you enter Ireland with a D visa, you will need to register with the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) or Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) to obtain a residence permit.
2. Types of Long Stay Visas in Ireland
There are several types of long stay visas based on the purpose of your visit:
A. Study Visa
The Study Visa is intended for students who have been accepted into a full-time course of study at an approved institution in Ireland.
- Eligibility: Must have an offer letter from an Irish institution and meet financial requirements.
- Duration: Typically valid for the length of the course.
B. Employment Visa
An Employment Visa allows individuals with a job offer to work in Ireland. There are two main work permits for this visa:
- Critical Skills Employment Permit: For highly skilled jobs in demand, like IT, engineering, and healthcare. It provides a fast track to residency.
- General Employment Permit: For other eligible occupations, with specific salary and employment requirements.
C. Join Family Visa
The Join Family Visa enables non-EEA family members to join their spouse, parent, or other qualifying relatives who are Irish citizens or lawful residents in Ireland.
- Eligibility: Requires proof of relationship to an Irish resident or citizen, and financial support documentation may be necessary.
D. Researcher Visa
A Researcher Visa is available to those coming to Ireland to participate in an approved research program.
- Eligibility: Must have a hosting agreement with an accredited research organization in Ireland.
E. Retirement Visa
A Retirement Visa is for those who wish to retire in Ireland and can demonstrate sufficient financial means to support themselves without working.
- Eligibility: Requires proof of financial independence and health insurance coverage.
3. Eligibility Requirements for a Long Stay Visa
Each visa type has unique eligibility requirements, but there are general criteria applicable to all long stay visa applicants:
- Passport: Valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
- Proof of Purpose: Documentation confirming the purpose of your stay (such as an acceptance letter for students or a job offer for workers).
- Financial Support: Proof that you have adequate funds to cover your stay without relying on public funds.
- Medical Insurance: Proof of private medical insurance coverage in Ireland.
4. Required Documents for a Long Stay Visa
The documents needed depend on the type of long stay visa. Here is a list of common requirements:
Core Documents
- Passport: Valid passport with at least two blank pages.
- Completed Application Form: The D visa application form completed online.
- Passport Photos: Recent passport-sized photos as per Ireland’s photo guidelines.
- Visa Fee: Payment receipt for the visa application fee.
Additional Documents by Visa Type
- For Study Visa:
- Offer letter from the educational institution
- Evidence of payment for the course fees
- Proof of accommodation in Ireland
- Financial statements demonstrating ability to support yourself
- For Employment Visa:
- Job offer letter from an Irish employer
- Copy of employment permit (Critical Skills or General Employment Permit)
- Evidence of qualifications relevant to the job
- For Join Family Visa:
- Proof of relationship (marriage or birth certificate)
- Evidence of family member’s legal status in Ireland (e.g., passport, residence card)
- Financial documents showing ability to support the family member
- For Researcher Visa:
- Hosting agreement from an Irish research institution
- Proof of relevant academic qualifications
- For Retirement Visa:
- Proof of financial independence (bank statements, pension documents)
- Health insurance coverage in Ireland
5. How to Apply for a Long Stay Visa (D Visa) in Ireland
The long stay visa application process is completed in several steps:
Step 1: Complete the Online Application
Visit the Irish Immigration Service (INIS) website to complete the online visa application form. Select the correct visa type based on your purpose of stay and carefully fill out all sections.
Step 2: Pay the Visa Fee
Pay the visa application fee online. Fees may vary depending on visa type and applicant status:
- Single-entry visa: €60
- Multiple-entry visa: €100
Note: Some applicants, such as researchers, may be exempt from visa fees.
Step 3: Gather Required Documents
Collect all required documents and make sure they meet the Irish government’s standards. Some documents may need to be translated if they are not in English.
Step 4: Submit Documents at an Irish Embassy or Visa Application Center
Once your application is submitted online, you’ll receive a summary form with further instructions. Submit your documents and biometric information (if required) to an Irish embassy or visa application center in your country.
Step 5: Wait for Processing
Visa processing times vary but generally take 8 weeks or longer. Complex cases or missing documents may extend processing times.
Step 6: Receive Visa Decision
Once approved, your passport will be returned with the visa affixed. If denied, you will receive a letter explaining the reasons for refusal and instructions for appeal if applicable.
6. Arriving in Ireland and Registering with Immigration
Once you arrive in Ireland on a long stay visa, you must register with Irish Immigration to obtain a residence permit (IRP card). Here’s what to do upon arrival:
- Make an Appointment: Schedule an appointment with INIS or the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB).
- Provide Biometric Information: At your appointment, you will provide fingerprints and a photograph.
- Receive Your IRP Card: This card will serve as your proof of legal residency in Ireland.
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I work in Ireland on a long stay visa?
You can only work if you have an employment-related visa, such as a Critical Skills Employment Permit or General Employment Permit.
2. How long does it take to get a long stay visa for Ireland?
Processing generally takes around 8 weeks, though times may vary by visa type and volume of applications.
3. Can I bring family members with me on a long stay visa?
Only certain visa holders, such as those on Critical Skills Employment Permits or family visas, may be eligible to bring dependents.
4. Do I need a visa to stay in Ireland if I’m from an EEA country?
EEA nationals do not need a visa to live, work, or study in Ireland.
5. Can I extend my stay in Ireland on a long stay visa?
Yes, certain visas allow for extensions, but you must apply before your current permit expires.
6. Is health insurance required for a long stay visa in Ireland?
Yes, all long stay visa applicants must show proof of private medical insurance for the duration of their stay.