How to apply for a student visa for Ireland: step by step 2025
Planning an exchange in Ireland involves some important procedures, and a student visa is one of the main ones. Unlike other countries, the Irish visa process has its peculiarities: it is requested only after arrival in the country, which may surprise those who are used to other destinations. In this comprehensive guide, we will explain in detail how to apply for a student visa to Ireland in 2025, making your international journey much smoother.
What is a student visa for Ireland and who needs it?
The student visa for Ireland, also known as Stamp 2, is an official authorization that allows foreigners to legally remain in the country for periods longer than 90 days for the purpose of studying. This document is issued by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) and ensures that you can not only study but also work legally for up to 20 hours a week during term time and 40 hours during school holidays.
Brazilians who plan to participate in programs of Study and Work in Ireland with a duration of more than 90 days, it is mandatory to apply for this visa. For short-term exchanges (up to 90 days), it is not necessary to apply for a prior visa, but you will still need to go through immigration when you arrive in the country, presenting documents such as a return ticket, proof of lodging, and sufficient financial resources for your stay. It is important to note that the Stamp 2 visa is only granted for courses with a minimum workload of 15 hours per week at institutions recognized by the Irish government.
Documents required for a student visa in Ireland
Preparing the documentation correctly is essential to guarantee the approval of your student visa. The Irish authorities are quite strict about complete and adequate documentation. Make sure to gather all the necessary documents before your immigration interview to avoid problems or delays.
The main documents required for a student visa in Ireland include:
- Valid passport: valid for at least 6 months beyond the course period
- Acceptance letter from the educational institution: known as an IRP Letter, which proves your enrollment in a recognized course
- Financial proof: evidence that you have the minimum amount required by the Irish government (currently €4,680) to support yourself during your stay
- Government health insurance: compulsory insurance policy issued by an insurance company recognized by the Irish government
- Proof of fixed accommodation: document that proves where you will be living in Ireland
- Printed interview schedule: confirmation of the date and time of your interview with immigration officers
It is essential that all these documents are printed, as it is not allowed to present digital versions during the immigration interview.
When and how to apply for an Irish student visa
Unlike most countries, a student visa for Ireland is only requested upon arrival in the country. Brazilians enter Ireland initially as tourists (allowed up to 90 days without a prior visa) and then begin the student visa application process. This unique feature of the Irish process requires careful planning, especially regarding the arrival date.
The ideal is to arrive at least one week before the start of your course to have time to settle in, find fixed accommodation and prepare all the necessary documentation for the interview. Soon after your arrival, you must schedule the immigration interview through the official website of the GNIB (Garda National Immigration Bureau). This appointment can be made online, but it must be made as far in advance as possible, as the available times tend to sell out quickly, especially during periods of high demand such as January and September. Currently, the average wait time between scheduling and the interview date is approximately 40 days.
Step by step to obtain the Irish student visa
The process of obtaining a student visa for Ireland follows a specific sequence of steps. Following this step by step correctly will significantly increase your chances of approval, making your transition to student life in Ireland much smoother.
- Schedule the immigration interview: Access the official GNIB website and schedule online as soon as you arrive in Ireland. Create an account in the system, enter your personal details and choose the available date and time for your interview.
- Find fixed accommodation: This is a crucial step in the process. Immigration authorities require a fixed address in Ireland. Hostels, temporary accommodations, or homestays are not accepted as proof of address for the visa. Take at least two weeks to find suitable accommodation.
- Update your government insurance: Once you've found your fixed accommodation, update the address on your insurance policy. This document will serve as proof of address during the interview.
- Request the school's IRP Letter: After defining your accommodation, ask your school reception for the official letter confirming your enrollment and attendance at the course.
- Prepare financial proof: Organize documentation that proves that you have the minimum financial resources required to remain in Ireland (€4,680 in 2025).
- Gather all documents: Gather all necessary documents and make backup copies. Make sure everyone is printed and organized for presentation.
- Attend the interview: On the scheduled day, go to the immigration office with all the necessary documents. Be prepared to answer questions about your study and stay plans in Ireland. Take the amount of the visa fee (€300) that can only be paid with an international card.
Important tips about a student visa in Ireland
The Stamp 2 visa is valid for 8 months and you will receive a card that proves your regularization in the country. It is essential to carefully check the expiration date printed on the card, as errors can occur. The official confirmation of your student visa will arrive by mail within 10 days after the interview. In addition to the €4,680 required for financial proof, we recommend bringing approximately an additional €500 for emergency expenses. Remember that the money from the financial proof should only be used for essential expenses such as housing, food, and transportation.
Financial proof for the Irish student visa
Financial proof is one of the most important and delicate aspects of the visa process in Ireland. The Irish government requires you to demonstrate that you have a minimum of €4,680 to cover your expenses during your stay. This proof can be done in three different ways, each with its own peculiarities and specific requirements.
The first and most recommended option is through an international travel card or global account (such as VTM or Revolut). You will need to print a statement no later than 30 days before your interview, showing the available balance. This is considered to be the safest form with the highest approval rate, as it allows immigration authorities to easily check the available balance.
The second option is to submit a statement from a bank account in Brazil, in your name, with the equivalent amount in reais. This account's card must be activated for international withdrawals and you must bring it to the interview. It is recommended that the statement be stamped or signed by the bank, although this is not explicitly required by official rules.
The third alternative is to open a bank account abroad. In this case, the process is similar to that of a travel card, but may involve additional fees and limited support, generally in English only. Who is it for learning a language abroad, this option may present additional communication challenges.
Be Easy
A Be Easy offers full support for Brazilians who wish to study in Ireland, with specialized guidance at all stages of the visa. Our team accompanies you from initial preparation in Brazil to your complete adaptation in Ireland, ensuring that all documentation is correct and within the standards required by the Irish authorities. With our unique programs, you'll have access to recognized courses, reliable accommodation, and personalized assistance throughout the process. Fulfill your dream of studying in Ireland safely and with peace of mind. Contact us today for a personalized consultation!
