Ireland Visa Guide 2026
Ireland offers distinct visa pathways as a non-Schengen EU member. The Critical Skills Employment Permit provides fast-track for ICT, healthcare, and engineering professionals. Stamp 4 permission grants work flexibility and clear routes to citizenship.
Visa Options & Categories
Short-Stay 'C': Tourism/business up to 90 days. Single/multiple entry. 8-week processing. INIS processes all applications.
Long-Stay 'D': Stays 90+ days for work/study/family. GNIB registration after arrival. Valid 1 year renewable.
Critical Skills Employment Permit: High-skilled roles (\,000-64,000+). No labour market test. Stamp 4 after 2 years. Family immediate work rights.
General Employment Permit: Roles \,000+. Labour market test (30-day ad). Valid 2 years. Stamp 4 after 5 years.
Student Visa: Full-time study. Work 20 hrs/week term, 40 hrs/week holidays. 2-year post-study Stamp 1G.
Stamp 4 (Long-Term): After 2 years (Critical) or 5 years (General). Unlimited work. Valid 5 years renewable.
Family Reunion: Spouses/children of Stamp 4 holders. Financial support + housing proof. Processing 6-12 months.
STEP Startup: High-potential startups (\+ funding). 2-year residence. Min 10 jobs within 3-4 years.
Use our Visa Eligibility Checker to find the best visa category for your profile.
Processing Times
Short-Stay 'C': 8 weeks. Long-Stay 'D': 8-12 weeks. Critical Skills: 4-8 weeks. General: 8-16 weeks. Student: 4-8 weeks. Family: 6-12 months.
Processing times vary based on application completeness, volume, and season. Apply well in advance. Check the official immigration website for current estimates.
Visa Fees & Costs
| Visa Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Short-Stay 'C' | \ |
| Long-Stay 'D' | \ |
| Critical Skills | \,000 |
| General Employment | \ |
| Student | \ |
| IRP Registration | \ |
| Family | \ |
| STEP Startup | \ |
Fees are non-refundable and subject to change. Exchange rates fluctuate. Additional costs may include translation, courier, travel insurance, and biometrics.