Long Stay Visa Ireland – How to Apply for 2024

1. Introduction: What is a Long Stay Visa for Ireland?

A Long Stay Visa (also known as a D Visa) allows non-EU/EEA nationals to stay in Ireland for more than 90 days. It is intended for those who plan to live, work, study, or join family in Ireland long-term. This guide explains the types of long stay visas, eligibility requirements, application process, and essential steps to ensure a smooth and successful application.

2. Types of Long Stay Visas for Ireland

Ireland offers several types of long stay visas, each designed for different purposes:

Study Visa: For non-EEA students enrolled in an approved Irish educational institution.
Employment Visa: For those with a job offer in Ireland, such as Critical Skills Employment Permits or General Employment Permits.
Join Family Visa: For individuals joining family members who are Irish citizens or legal residents.
Volunteer Visa: For those intending to participate in volunteer activities in Ireland for over 90 days.
Retirement Visa: For retirees with sufficient financial means to live independently in Ireland.

Each visa type has its own eligibility requirements and application procedures, which we’ll explore below.

3. Eligibility Requirements for an Ireland Long Stay Visa

To qualify for a long stay visa, applicants generally need to meet the following requirements:

Valid Purpose of Stay: Must have a specific purpose, such as work, study, or family reunification.
Proof of Funds: Show evidence of financial resources to support yourself during your stay.
Health Insurance: Demonstrate that you have adequate private health insurance coverage.
Clean Criminal Record: A police clearance certificate may be required to confirm your good character.
Supporting Documentation: Each visa type has specific documentation requirements, which typically include invitation letters, proof of relationship, job offers, or enrollment letters.

4. Study Visa (D Visa) for Ireland

The Ireland Study Visa is for international students enrolled in a recognized Irish institution:

Enrollment Letter: A letter from the institution confirming your enrollment in a full-time program.
Proof of Finances: Bank statements showing funds to cover tuition and living expenses (minimum €7,000 for the first year).
Health Insurance: A health insurance policy valid in Ireland for the duration of your studies.

5. Employment Visa (D Visa) for Ireland

For those with a job offer in Ireland, there are several types of employment permits:

Critical Skills Employment Permit: For high-demand roles in sectors like IT, engineering, and healthcare. Offers a fast-track to permanent residency (Stamp 4) after two years.
General Employment Permit: For a broader range of jobs, typically issued for two years with renewal options.
Intra-Company Transfer Permit: For employees of multinational companies transferring to an Irish branch.

6. Join Family Visa for Ireland

If you have close family members in Ireland, you may qualify for a Join Family Visa:

Eligibility: Available for spouses, partners, dependent children, and, in some cases, dependent parents of Irish citizens or residents.
Supporting Documentation: Marriage or birth certificates, proof of relationship, financial support proof, and the sponsor’s proof of residence or citizenship.
Financial Requirement: The Irish sponsor may need to show adequate income to support the applicant without accessing public funds.

7. Volunteer Visa for Ireland

Non-EU nationals volunteering in Ireland for over 90 days may apply for a Volunteer Visa:

Invitation Letter from the Organization: A letter from the volunteer organization confirming your role, duration, and purpose of the stay.
Financial Support: Evidence of financial support to cover living expenses, as paid employment is not allowed on this visa.

8. Retirement Visa (Stamp 0) for Ireland

For retirees, Ireland offers a long stay visa under Stamp 0:

Financial Requirements: Proof of independent income, typically €50,000 annually per person, plus additional savings.
Health Insurance: Private health insurance coverage in Ireland.
Purpose of Stay: Must confirm your intent not to work and to live independently.

9. How to Apply for an Ireland Long Stay Visa

The application process for an Irish long stay visa generally involves the following steps:

Complete Online Application: Fill out the application form on the Irish Immigration Service (INIS) website.
Pay Visa Fee: Standard fees are €60 for a single entry and €100 for multiple entries, but these may vary based on nationality.
Gather Required Documents: Submit required documentation, including passport, proof of finances, purpose-related documents, and health insurance proof.
Submit Biometrics (if required): Some applicants may need to provide biometrics at a visa application center.
Attend Visa Interview (if required): Some visa types may require an interview at the Irish embassy or consulate.
Submit Application and Wait for Approval: Processing times vary but typically range from 6 to 12 weeks for long stay visas.

10. Required Documents for an Ireland Long Stay Visa

Standard documentation for a long stay visa includes:

Valid Passport: With at least six months’ validity beyond your intended stay.
Completed Application Form: With visa fees paid.
Passport-Sized Photos: Meeting Irish visa photo requirements.
Purpose-Specific Documents: Such as a job offer, enrollment letter, or family sponsorship documents.
Proof of Finances: Bank statements or other financial documents.
Proof of Accommodation: Confirmation of your place of stay in Ireland.
Health Insurance: Insurance coverage valid in Ireland.

11. Fees and Processing Time

The fees and processing time for a long stay visa vary:

Application Fee: Typically €60 for a single-entry visa and €100 for multiple entries.
Processing Time: Long stay visas often take 6–12 weeks, though times can vary by country and visa type.

12. Arrival in Ireland and Registering with Immigration

Once your long stay visa is approved and you arrive in Ireland:

Register with Immigration: All non-EU/EEA nationals staying longer than 90 days must register with Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) or Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) within 90 days of arrival.
Receive Your Residence Permit: After registration, you will receive an Irish Residence Permit (IRP), which indicates your residency stamp and visa conditions.

13. Renewing Your Long Stay Visa

Most long stay visas are renewable if you continue to meet the visa conditions:

Application for Renewal: Apply for renewal of your visa or permit at least 30 days before it expires, and provide updated documents.
Extended Residency: Employment and study visas typically allow extensions; family members and retirees can often renew as long as they meet ongoing requirements.

14. Path to Permanent Residency and Citizenship

After several years on a long stay visa, some visa holders can pursue permanent residency:

Stamp 4 for Long-Term Residency: Eligible after five years on a long stay visa (or two years on a Critical Skills Employment Permit).
Naturalization for Citizenship: After five years of legal residence, individuals can apply for Irish citizenship by naturalization, provided they meet residency, financial, and language requirements.

15. Frequently Asked Questions

Can I work in Ireland with a long stay visa? Only if you hold a work visa, such as the Critical Skills or General Employment Permit. Family and student visas have specific work restrictions.
Can my family join me on a long stay visa? Yes, certain visas (such as employment and family reunification) allow family members to join.
How long does it take to get a long stay visa for Ireland? Processing generally takes 6–12 weeks. Start early to avoid delays.

16. Conclusion

Ireland’s long stay visa options offer various pathways to live, work, study, or retire in the country. By choosing the right visa type, meeting eligibility requirements, and following the application process, you can secure a long stay visa and enjoy life in Ireland. For those looking to make Ireland their permanent home, many long stay visas provide a pathway to residency and even citizenship.