Visa Types/Documentation

Application requirements for a Tourist visa

Document Checklist

Tourist Visa Document Checklist EN

Personal Documents and Fee

• Passport, valid for 6 months after your intended date of departure from the State. Please include 2 photocopies of the passport bio page.
• If you have held a previous passport, you must submit your previous passport with your application. If you are unable to do so, a written explanation must be provided along with any relevant police reports.
• Copy of Chinese immigration records from the National Immigration Administration Bureau (https://s.nia.gov.cn.) This is a free service which is also available on WeChat.
• Signed summary of your on-line application form. Please refer to our How to Apply page.
• A signed letter of application outlining the nature and duration of your visit to Ireland and including contact details.
• 2 passport sized colour photos taken in the past six months that meet our specifications.
• Original Hukou along with English translation and photocopies of both.
• If you are married or have children under age eighteen, you should submit your marriage certificate and birth certificates for the children.
• Details of any members of your family who are currently in Ireland or any other EU State should be provided.

For applicants under 18 years of age (i.e. minors), please see below.

Please follow these links for information on Visa Fees, VFS service charge and payment methods.

Please follow the link to find the application centre most convenient to you – information on Visa Application Centers.

Financial Documents

• Evidence of sufficient funds for your trip. This should be in the form of an original bank savings certificate, bank deposit book or bank statement covering at least 6 months prior to the date of visa application.
• Confirmation of your accommodation booking must be submitted.
• Evidence of travel/medical insurance cover for the duration of your stay. Please note you may be asked to show proof of insurance when you arrive at the port of entry.

Evidence of Obligations to Return

• If you are employed, a letter from your employer stating how long you have been employed there, the dates you will be on annual leave, the date you will be returning to that employment and the name and contact details of the person providing the letter.
• If you are a student, a letter from your college stating the course you are studying, how many years you have been a student there, how many years/terms you have left at that college, and that you will be returning there following your visit to Ireland.
• If you are not in employment or are retired, you should provide information regarding your social and economic ties to China.

All applicants should submit a signed statement in Chinese and in English confirming that he/she will observe the conditions of their visa, that they will not become a burden on the state, that they will visit Ireland for a maximum of 90 days, they will not seek extend their visa in Ireland and they will return to China before their permission to remain in Ireland expires.

Other Documents

• Full itinerary of your trip, including intended date of departure from country of origin, arrival date in Ireland, activities to be undertaken in Ireland and details of any other countries you intend to visit on this trip.
• Where the other parent of this child has some custody or access rights, a sworn affidavit by this parent consenting to the child being removed from their home country is required. This signed parental consent must be accompanied by a copy of the consenting parent's passport or national identity card showing the bearer's signature.

Please note the above list is not exhaustive. Applications must include all relevant information.

If you are visiting another country prior to travelling to Ireland, the relevant visa for that country must be obtained before applying for an Irish visa.

Please note that any document submitted in Chinese, must be accompanied by an official English translation.

You are required to provide a copy of all original documents

We will make a decision on your application as soon as possible however, please note we process visa applications in the order we receive them.

It is strongly recommended not to purchase travel tickets prior to a decision being made on your visa application. Doing so may lead to unnecessary additional costs in circumstances where a visa is not granted.

Before you complete your visa application please thoroughly read the information contained in General Information for all applications.

Visit Ireland as part of a Chinese Tour Group: Approved Destination Status (ADS) Tourist Visa

You can visit Ireland for up to 30 days as part of a tour group through the Approved Destination Status Scheme (ADS) if you are a Chinese citizen. 

To qualify as an ADS tourist you must enter Ireland as part of a tour group and stay with the group for the duration of your visit. Your tour must be organised by an ADS licensed Chinese tour operator.

An ADS visa allows travel within Ireland in accordance with a pre-determined itinerary. You may also travel to the UK, including Northern Ireland, after first travelling to Ireland if your visa is endorsed with the letters ‘BIVS’ under the British-Irish Visa Scheme. ADS visas are issued to members of tourist groups of at least 5 tourists plus the tour leader. The maximum duration of stay is 30 days.

To qualify for an ADS tourist visa, your tour must be organised by an ADS-licensed Chinese tour operator.

Apply for your ADS visa in 4 easy steps:

Step 1: Select your preferred ADS tour operator and plan your travel to Ireland. A list of Ireland’s approved Chinese ADS-licensed tour operators can be provided to you upon request by email.

Step 2: Complete your individual online visa application form. For instructions follow: ‘How to Apply’.

Step 3: Prepare your supporting documentation for submission of your visa application. Follow your tour operator’s advice on how best to prepare your supporting documentation. ADS tour operators usually arrange for their representative to submit all supporting documentation on behalf of the group in advance. The ADS tour operator simply makes an appointment at the chosen Visa Application Centre (VAC) one day prior to the group’s appointment and submits the completed applications on behalf of the group. The VAC personnel carry out a document pre-check at this stage.

Step 4: Your tour operator will arrange an appointment for the tour group at the most convenient Visa Application Centre (VAC). The appointment involves taking your fingerprints and photo (biometric information). This will usually happen 4 weeks before your departure. Agents can split groups and make appointments at different VACs if this is preferred. 

Please note: All documents must be in English or accompanied by an official English translation

Documents that must be submitted at the Visa Application Centre by the ADS tour operator’s representative in respect of the ADS group:

• Copy of identity card, copy of CNTA badge and copy of the Irish ADS accreditation card of the travel agency's designated representative/courier.
• A name list, signed by the ADS licensed tour operator's representative, of all the group members, including the tour leader, along with their passport numbers.
• Travel date
• Name of the tour leader along with a copy of tour leader's Chinese ADS certificate (valid for period of travel) and a copy of the biographic page of his/her passport and visa page.
• Name and contact details of the designated tour operator in Ireland
• Evidence of visa fee payment for the group.

Documents that must be submitted on behalf of each ADS visa applicant:

• Completed visa application form, duly signed by the applicant, with 2 recent passport photos.
• Passport (original), valid for 6 months after applicant’s intended date of departure from Ireland.
• If you have held a previous passport, you must submit your previous passport with your application. If you are unable to do so, a written explanation must be provided along with any relevant police reports.
• Copy of Chinese immigration records from the National Immigration Administration Bureau (https://s.nia.gov.cn.) This is a free service which is also available on WeChat.
• 2 photocopies of the applicant’s passport bio identity page.
• Previous passport (original), if the applicant has held a previous passport.
• 1 photocopy of the applicant’s ID card (with translation in English).
• 1 full copy of the Hukou booklet – all pages (with translation in English).
• Evidence of travel insurance covering the entire duration of stay in Ireland / UK, with cover of at least €30,000 and covering the cost of any emergency medical treatment or repatriation for medical reasons.
• A cover note, signed by the applicant, summarising the nature and duration of the applicant’s visit to Ireland/UK and including the applicant’s contact details (with translation in English).
• Proof of applicant’s financial means, original bank statements covering the last 6 months prior to submission of the visa application.
• If the applicant is employed, an official headed letter with the company’s stamp, signed by his/her employer (with address, telephone, email address of the employer, signature with name and position of the person who signed) stating the visa applicant’s working position, salary, years of service, and approval for holiday leave (with translation in English). A copy of the employer’s business license must also be submitted.
• If the applicant is self-employed, a copy of his/her business license with company stamp.
• If the applicant is retired, his/her original retirement certificate (with translation in English), along with original bank statements showing pension payments for the previous 6 months prior to the visa application.  
• If the applicant is unemployed and married, a copy of his/her spouse’s employment letter (with translation in English), and a notarised copy of his/her marriage certificate, legalised by the MFA.

Minors:  Applicants under 18 years of age:

• A notarised copy of birth certificate, legalised by the MFA (with English translation).
• A full copy of Hukou booklet, confirming relationship to parent (with English translation).
• If travelling with one parent, a notary certificate of permission to travel from the other parent or legal guardian, legalised by the MFA. Not older than 6 months.
• If the applicant is travelling alone or without both parents/guardians, a notary certificate of permission to travel from both parents or legal guardians, legalised by MFA. Not older than 6 months
• In cases where the parents are divorced, a notarised copy of the divorce decision, legalised by the MFA, stating to whom of the parents full guardianship was entrusted.
• In cases where one parent/guardian is deceased, notarised certificate of death. Legalized by the MFA.
• Original school letter confirming absence for holiday purposes. Letter must include the contact details of the school and the school’s stamp.
• A copy of both parents’/guardians’ passport biographic and signature page must be provided.
• Evidence of income and funds held by parent(s). If the parent is employed, a headed letter from his/her employer (with address, telephone and email address of the employer, stamp and signature with name and position of the person who signed) stating the parent’s working position, salary (with translation in English). If the parent is self-employed, a copy of his/her business license with company stamp. Parents’ original bank statements for previous 6 months must be submitted also

Making group appointments at the VAC:

Visa applications may be submitted at any of our 15 Visa Applications Centres across China: https://visa.vfsglobal.com/chn/en/irl/attend-centre

VAC pre-check appointments (submission of documentation on behalf of the tour group) can be made by the ADS representative by emailing: info.ircn@vfshelpline.com.

VAC appointments for tour groups of up to 5 applicants can be made online: https://visa.vfsglobal.com/chn/en/irl/book-an-appointment

VAC appointments for groups of greater than 5 applicants, should be made per email by the ADS tour operator’s representative: info.ircn@vfshelpline.com.

Visa Fees:

Fees for each applicant are equivalent to the cost of a single entry visa. Usually, ADS tourists pay their visa fee directly to their tour operator, who then pays for the whole group at the Visa Application Centre – this a matter for the visa applicant. Please follow these links for information on Visa Fees, VFS service charge and payment methods.

Visa processing times:

It is expected that ADS Visa applications will be processed within 10-15 working days from the day of receipt in the Beijing Visa Office. However, processing times may vary depending on the volume of demand for visas. It is therefore advisable to submit applications as far ahead of the intended travel date as possible. Applications may be submitted within 3 months of the group’s travel date. Very large groups are strongly advised to submit their applications at the VAC at least 20 working days in advance of travel. 

Changes to itinerary:

ADS tourist visas are valid for the pre-determined itinerary as submitted at the time of application. If, for reasons beyond the control of the Chinese accredited travel agency, any changes are made to this itinerary between the visa application and departure date, it is the responsibility of the travel agency to inform the Beijing Visa Office immediately. It should be noted that changes to an itinerary may only concern points of minor detail such as the hotels where the group will be staying. In all circumstances, the group must travel as a group and all members of the group must stay in the same hotels. It is not permissible to change basic elements of the itinerary.

Tour operator accreditation:

If you would like to submit an application for accreditation as an ADS approved tour operator with Ireland, please contact the Embassy of Ireland Visa Office. Please remember that your tour company must first be licenced by the Chinese authorities. Your tour company must also have a good track record of operating group tours in accordance with immigration laws. Evidence of adequate indemnity insurance must also be provided. If you have already been approved as an ADS operator by the UK, this will be viewed favourably by the Visa Office.  

Application requirements for a Visit Visa

Document Checklist

Visit Visa Document Checklist EN

​If you are visa required national, you need a Short Stay Visit Family/Friend Visa to come to visit relatives and friends in Ireland for up to 90 days. All short stay visas are also called 'C' visas.

You may apply for a Multiple-Entry visa if you have a compliant travel history and your family member/friend will remain legally resident in Ireland for a number of years. Please note that the issuance of a Multiple Entry visa remains at the discretion of the Visa Officer.

You may travel to the United Kingdom (including Northern Ireland), after first entering Ireland, if your Irish visa has the letters 'BIVS' written on it. Read more about the British Irish Visa Scheme.

If your visa does not have the letters 'BIVS' written on it, you will need a UK visa to enter the UK (including Northern Ireland).

Chinese nationals are permitted to transit through the UK on their journey to Ireland if the letters 'BC' are written on their Irish visa.

Please be advised that all documents in a language different from English must be accompanied by an official translation into English.

You are required to provide photocopies of all original documents.

It is strongly recommended not to purchase travel tickets prior to a decision being made on your visa application. Doing so may lead to unnecessary additional costs in circumstances where a visa is not granted.

As a visitor, you must be able to support and accommodate yourself without working in Ireland. It is acceptable for support and accommodation to be provided by relatives or friends in Ireland but not from public funds.

It is not possible to change your immigration status while in Ireland.

Short Stay Visit Family/Friend

Documents Required

Personal documents

• Signed visa application summary form. Please refer to our How to Apply page.
• Current passport with 2 clear pages and valid for at least 6 months after your return from Ireland.
• If you have held a previous passport, you must submit your previous passport with your application. If you are unable to do so, a written explanation must be provided along with any relevant police reports.
• Copy of Chinese immigration records from the National Immigration Administration Bureau (https://s.nia.gov.cn.) This is a free service which is also available on WeChat.
• 2 photocopies of the passport identity and signature page.
• Previous Passports (if any).
• 2 colour passport photographs taken in the last 6 months (one to be glued to the top left of your application form). The photographs must meet INIS specifications. Please see our General Information page.
• Evidence of visa fee payment.
• Photocopy of applicant's social insurance book with official English translation (if resident in Mongolia).
• Photocopy of applicant's household registration/Hukou book with official English translation.
• Copy of marriage certificate, birth certificates of children (if applicable).
• For foreign residents: Residence permit and valid re-entry visa if applicable.
• A signed letter of application from the applicant outlining why you want to come to Ireland. Sign and date the letter and submit it with your documents. Your letter must include your full name and postal address, and state:
• The reason you want to come to Ireland;
• The dates you plan to arrive and leave;
• The place(s) you will stay, for example home address of your friend/family, hotel, hostel, B&B, etc.;
• A description of who will pay for your vacation, for example you, friend/family.

Your letter must also include a commitment from you that you will:

• Obey the conditions of your visa in full;
• Not rely on public services (for example public hospitals) or become a burden on the State;
• Leave Ireland before your immigration permission expires.

If you are visiting a friend(s), your letter must also include:

• The name(s) and address(es) of your friend(s) in Ireland;
• A description of how you and your friend(s) know each other;
• The names and addresses of any members of your family who also live in Ireland (even if you will not visit them);
• The names and addresses of any members of your family who currently live in any other EU/EEA country or Switzerland;

If you are visiting family, your letter must also include:

• The names and addresses of all members of your family who live in Ireland (including family members you will not be visiting);
• The names and addresses of any members of your family who currently live in any other EU/EEA country or Switzerland;
• If you are a student, you should include a letter from your educational institution stating your course of study and expected completion date. Letter should include contact details for the school so that the information can be verified.
• If you are not in employment or are retired, you should provide information regarding your social and economic ties to China, e.g. retirement cert.
• If you are employed:

If you are an employee: you must submit a letter from your current employer on headed paper confirming:

If you are self-employed: You must submit documentary evidence of your business/company in the form of:

• A copy of your business licence.
• Up-to-date bank statements for your business bank account covering 6 month period immediately prior to the visa application.
• If you are staying in other accommodation you must include printed reservation confirmations (emails or letters) of your accommodation from hotels, guesthouses, hostels, B&Bs, AirBnBs, campsites, etc. Reservation confirmations must show the dates you intend to stay at each place. A full accommodation plan must be submitted with your application. Reservations must contain the full contact details of the accommodation provider.

Documents from your family member/friend in Ireland

• Letter of invitation from your friend/family member in Ireland confirming your dates of travel, that they will provide accommodation for you or that you will stay in a hotel. If a Multiple Entry visa is required, the reasons why it is needed. The letter must be signed and dated by the person making the invitation. The letter should contain contact details of reference in Ireland. The letter should be addressed to the visa applicant and the visa applicant must submit it as a supporting document with his/her visa application. The inviting person should also provide the following documents (copies are sufficient):
  • Recent utility bill denoting address;
  • Copy of passport details page;
  • Copy of GNIB/IRP card if inviter is a non Irish/EEA national.
  • Evidence of application for permission to marry from Registrar of Births, Deaths and Marriage, if applicable.
  • Letter confirming graduation ceremony/other event in Ireland, if applicable.
• If you are visiting a Friend: documentary evidence of the relationship between you and your friend(s), for example copies of letters, emails, photographs together, etc.;
• If you are visiting a Family member: notarised certificate confirming kinship with reference in Ireland.

Finance Documents

• You must submit evidence of your own finances whether or not you are covering the costs of the visit yourself. A detailed statement on headed paper of your bank account covering a six- month period immediately prior to your visa application is required. Bank statements must be on headed paper - internet printouts will not be accepted. Your name, account number and account type must be visible on the statement. Any large lump sum lodgements must be explained in a separate signed statement. An original bank savings certificate, bank deposit book (if applicable).
• If your family member/friend in Ireland is financing your trip:
• You must submit evidence of the inviting person's finances. A detailed statement on headed paper of his/her bank account covering the six-month period immediately prior to your visa application is required. Bank statements must be on headed paper - internet printouts will not be accepted. The inviting person's name, address, account number and account type must be visible on the statement. Any large lump sum lodgements must be explained in a separate signed statement by your sponsor.
• Evidence of the inviting person's employment:
• Their 3 most recent payslips;
• Their most recent P60 (tax document);
• A letter from their employer on headed paper that confirms they are employed.
• If the person travelling is a student or unemployed, their application should also include the following:
• Letter of sponsorship stating the sponsor will cover the cost of your visit. The letter must be signed by the sponsor and include his/her address and contact details;
• Evidence of how the sponsor is related to you and a copy of their passport details page(if applicable);
• Letter from sponsor's employer on headed company paper including salary and contact details for the company;
• You must submit evidence of your sponsor's finances. A detailed statement on headed paper of your sponsor's bank account covering a six- month period immediately prior to your visa application is required. Bank statements must be on headed paper - internet printouts will not be accepted. Your sponsor's name, , account number and account type must be visible on the statement. Any large lump sum lodgements must be explained in a separate signed statement by your sponsor.

If you have been refused a visa for any other country, details of this must be given. Submit a copy of the letter issued to you by the authorities of that country. Concealment of visa refusals will result in your Irish visa application being refused.

Please follow the link for information on visas fees, payment methods, and where to apply.

Before you complete your visa application please thoroughly read the information contained on our General Information page.

We aim to make a decision on your application as soon as possible however, please allow 20 working days from receipt in the Beijing Visa Office for your application to be processed. You may submit your application up to 3 months in advance of your travel date.

Application requirements for an Irish Business Visa

Persons wishing to travel to Ireland to conduct business should apply for a business visa.

You are not entitled to work in Ireland, but you may conduct business, and you must intend to leave after a maximum of 90 days stay.

It is not possible to change your status while in Ireland.

If you are a visa-required national and going to Ireland for a business meeting, you should present the following with your visa application:

Personal Documents and Fee

• Passport, valid for 6 months after your intended date of departure from the State.
• If you have held a previous passport, you must submit your previous passport with your application. If you are unable to do so, a written explanation must be provided along with any relevant police reports.
• Copy of Chinese immigration records from the National Immigration Administration Bureau (https://s.nia.gov.cn.) This is a free service which is also available on WeChat.
• Signed summary of your on-line application form. Please refer to our How to Apply Page.
• 2 passport sized colour photos taken in the past six months that meet our specifications.
• A signed letter of application outlining the nature and duration of your visit to Ireland and including contact details.
• Photocopy and official English translation of applicant's hukou．

Please follow these links for information on Visa Fees & VFS service charge and payment methods.

Please follow the link to find the application centre most convenient to you – information on Visa Application Centers.

Other Documents

• An original letter and a copy of invitation from a company in Ireland which states the applicant's name, date of birth and passport number. This letter should detail the nature and duration of the proposed business visit and state who will bear responsibility for the applicant's accommodation and maintenance costs while in Ireland. The letter should also include a contact name and his/her contact information and details for the company in Ireland.
• An original letter from the applicant's employer or company in China, which states the applicant's name, date of birth and passport number and also his or her position in the company. This letter should detail the nature and duration of the business trip and also state who will bear responsibility of costs during the applicant's time in Ireland. Please note that information on previous business relations between the two companies or information on how they came in contact should also be included in this letter.
• Photocopy and official translation of the business licence of the applicant's company.
• If you are personally responsible for the costs of this trip, submit evidence of your personal finances – a detailed statement of your bank account covering a six-month period immediately prior to your visa application is required. You must also explain why you are undertaking this trip at your own expense.
• Evidence of insurance cover will help us decide your application. If we grant you a visa you should show proof of medical/travel insurance when you arrive at the port of entry.

All letters submitted should be on official company headed paper and give full contact details for verification purposes. These must include a full postal address, name of contact, position in company, telephone number (landline) and email address where relevant. (Email addresses such as Yahoo or Hotmail are not accepted). Website address should also be included, if applicable.

Please note the above list is not exhaustive. Applications must include all relevant information.

If you are visiting another country prior to travelling to Ireland, the relevant visa for that country must be obtained before applying for an Irish visa.

Please note that any document submitted in Chinese, must be accompanied by an official English translation.

You are required to provide a copy of all original documents

We will make a decision on your application as soon as possible, however, please note we process visa applications in the order we receive them.

It is strongly recommended not to purchase travel tickets prior to a decision being made on your visa application. Doing so may lead to unnecessary additional costs in circumstances where a visa is not granted.

Before you complete your visa application please thoroughly read the information contained in General Information for all applications.

Setting up a business in Ireland:

Applicants intending to set up a business in Ireland must present a letter of permission to do so from the Department of Justice and Equality. A visa application will not be considered until such permission is obtained. Please see https://www.irishimmigration.ie/for details.

Establishing business links with Ireland:

Enterprise Ireland is the Irish government agency responsible for the development of Irish industry and is the gateway to Ireland for international companies looking for world-class suppliers. Enterprise Ireland is the trade and technology board of the Irish government with an overseas network of 33 international offices.

Document Checklist

Application requirements for an Irish Conference Visa

If you are visa required national, you need a Short Stay Conference Visa to come to Ireland to attend a conference. All short stay visas are also called 'C' visas.

You may apply for a Multiple-Entry visa, if you have a compliant travel history and can provide evidence that you will be attending a series of conferences in Ireland. Please note that the issuance of a Multiple Entry visa remains at the discretion of the Visa Officer.

You cannot travel to the UK (including Northern Ireland) using an Irish visa, unless your visa has the letters 'BIVS' written on it. Read more about the British Irish Visa Scheme.

If your visa does not have the letters 'BIVS' written on it, you will need a UK visa to enter the UK (including Northern Ireland).

Chinese nationals are permitted to transit through the UK on route to Ireland if the letters 'BC' are written on their Irish visa.

Please be advised, that all documents in a language different from English must be accompanied by a notarized translation into English.

You are required to provide photocopies of all original documents.

It is strongly recommended not to purchase travel tickets prior to a decision being made on your visa application. Doing so may lead to unnecessary additional costs in circumstances where a visa is not granted.

You are not entitled to work in Ireland.

It is not possible to change your immigration status while in Ireland.

Short Stay Conference

Documents Required

• Signed visa application summary form. Please refer to our How to Apply page.
• Current passport with 2 clear pages and valid for at least 6 months after your return from Ireland.
• 2 photocopies of the passport identity and signature page.
• If you have held a previous passport, you must submit your previous passport with your application. If you are unable to do so, a written explanation must be provided along with any relevant police reports.
• Copy of Chinese immigration records from the National Immigration Administration Bureau (https://s.nia.gov.cn.) This is a free service which is also available on WeChat.
• 2 colour passport photographs taken in the last 6 months (one to be glued to the top left of your application form). The photographs must meet INIS specifications. Please see our General Information page.
• Evidence of visa fee payment.
• Photocopy of applicant's social insurance book with official English translation for applicants residing in Mongolia.
• Photocopy of applicant's household registration/Hukou book with official English translation.
• For foreign residents: Residence permit and valid re-entry visa if applicable.
• A signed letter of application from the applicant outlining the nature and duration of the visit to Ireland, itinerary, and contact details of the applicant for verification purposes. The letter must also state that the applicant agrees to obey by conditions of his/her short-stay visa.
• Letter from your current employer on headed paper confirming:
  • Details of your current employment (job title, length employed, salary)
  • Letter should state the name, date of birth, and passport number of the applicant
  • Employment letter should include contact details of employer so that the information can be verified. The letter must include a full postal address, name of contact, position in company, telephone number (landline) and email address. Email addresses such as Yahoo or Hotmail are not accepted. The website address for the company should also be provided, if possible.
  • Your proposed attendance at the conference and the relevance of the conference to your employment/professional development
  • Location of the conference and duration of your proposed stay
  • If your employer is a private company and is paying for the trip, we require the company's bank account statement, covering previous 6 months, certified by bank.
• Photocopy and official English translation of the business licence of the applicant's company (if self-employed)/employer's company.
• Letter from the conference host in Ireland on headed paper confirming:
  • Your attendance at the conference
  • Details of the date, nature, location and duration of the conference
  • Registration fee, if applicable, has been paid.
• If you are attending the conference in a private capacity, you must provide evidence of your finances. A detailed certified statement of your bank account covering a six month period immediately prior to your visa application is required. An explanation as to why you, and not your employer, is paying should also be included. Any lump sum payments must be explained in a separate signed personal statement.
• If applicable, copy of marriage certificate, birth certificates of children.
• If you have been refused a visa for any other country, details of this must be given. Submit a copy of the refusal letter issued to you by the authorities of that country. Concealment of visa refusals will result in your Irish visa application being refused.

Please follow the link for information on visas fees, payment methods, and where to apply.

Before you complete your visa application please thoroughly read the information contained on our General Information page.

Document Checklist

Study Visa Checklist

Visa type selection

If you wish to come to Ireland to study for less than 90 days you should apply for a short stay (study) visa.

If you wish to come to Ireland to study for longer than 90 days you should apply for a long stay (study) visa. You must choose a course from the Interim List of Eligible Programmes (ILEP) Interim List of Eligible Programmes (ILEP) - Immigration Service Delivery

Visa required nationals who hold a valid IRP/GNIB card no longer need a re-entry visa to travel to Ireland. The IRP/GNIB card and passport are sufficient.

Children aged 0-15 are not issued with an IRP/GNIB card. Application for re-entry visas for minors (under 16) - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie)

The aggregate period of time a non EEA national student can be permitted to remain to pursue courses of study is 7 years. Periods of time previously spent in Ireland studying courses count toward the 7 year time limit a non EEA national can be permitted to remain on student conditions.

Application requirements for a Study Visa

Study visa applications submitted in China should contain the following documents. Please note the following list is not exhaustive and applications should be supported by all information considered relevant. You should submit any additional documents that you feel will assist the Visa Officer in making a decision on your application.

All documents submitted must be original, legible, verifiable and in English. Original documents will be scanned by VFS and returned to you.

Certified translations must also be provided for any documentation not in English.

Personal Documents and Fees

• Passport, valid for 12 months after your intended date of departure from the State. Please include 2 photocopies of the passport bio page.
• If you have held a previous passport, you must submit your previous passport with your application. If you are unable to do so, a written explanation must be provided along with any relevant police reports.
• Copy of Chinese immigration records from the National Immigration Administration Bureau (https://s.nia.gov.cn.) This is a free service which is also available on WeChat.
• Signed summary of your on-line application form. Please refer to our How to Apply Page for details.
• 2 passport sized colour photos taken in the past six months that meet our specifications.
• A signed letter of application outlining the nature and duration of your visit to Ireland and including contact details.
• Photocopy and official English translation of applicant's hukou

Please follow these links for information on VFS and Visa Application Centres

For applicants residing in Mainland China: Apply for a visa | vfsglobal

For applicants residing in Hong Kong: Welcome to VFS Global | vfsglobal

For applicants residing in Mongolia: Welcome to VFS Global | vfsglobal

Finances

A detailed statement of your and/or your sponsors' bank account(s) covering a six-month period immediately prior to your visa application, and showing sufficient funds to cover your costs. Evidence of savings or deposits held by you or your sponsor for a six-month period can also be submitted as evidence of finances.

Please supply letters from your sponsor’s employer. The letter’s should be on company headed paper with the company's address and contact details. The letters should include the following:

• Place of employment
• Address of work unit / company
• Type of business
• Position held
• Length of employment in this company
• Annual salary including bonus
• Contact phone number for employer

Note: The estimated cost of living in Ireland for a student for one academic year is €10,000. You must demonstrate that you or your sponsor has ready access to an amount of at least €10,000 for each year of your studies, in addition to the course fees for each of those years.

If the duration of your course is less than 6 months you must have access to €700 per month of your stay or €4,200 whichever is the lesser.

You should submit a completed Financial Summary Form (FSF), which can be found here.

Please note: From 30 June 2025, if the duration of your course is less than 8 months you must have access to €833 per month of your stay or €6,665 whichever is the lesser.

All details listed here must be proven by documentary evidence and, where sponsors are involved, it must be clear their documents relate to them.

You must list each person sponsoring you, and give clear details of their relationship to you. Notarised certificate confirming kinship should be provided. All evidence provided must be clearly identifiable as to whom it relates. Give clear details of the financial support they will be giving you for the duration of your stay in Ireland. Their bank account must show a good credit record for a minimum of six months immediately prior to making your application.

Your sponsor (s) will need to show that the amount of financial support they will be giving you is available and that they have enough funds to maintain themselves and other family members.

Savings records should be consistent with the income of the applicant and his/ her sponsor. Any inconsistencies must be explained.

Any lump sum lodgements made during the immediate three months prior to your application must be fully explained, with supporting evidence provided. For example, if such a lump sum lodgement has come from the proceeds of a sale of property or encashment of Savings Certificates, Fixed Rate Deposit accounts, or any similar type sources, then clear evidence of this must be provided.

If your sponsor is involved in business, evidence of this must be provided, such as a Business License/ Certificate of Registration from the authorities in your country.

All bank statements should include the name of the account holder, and the account number. Handwritten entries or details on bank statements will not be accepted.

Any documents not in English must accompanied by a certified translation which contains the name of the translator and their contact details.

Bank statements and letters must show and include full contact details of the bank – name, full address of branch where account is held, telephone number (landline, not mobile), e-mail and website addresses (where available). Where this information is not normally available on a bank statement, it should be accompanied by a letter from the bank, on official bank stationery, giving these details. Where a bank statement or a letter from the bank is submitted giving only a mobile phone number, post box number as address, or an email address of Yahoo, Hotmail etc., this will not be considered as evidence of finances, and may in fact raise an issue of credibility over the whole application.

Alternative Evidence of Finance – Degree Programme Students

A pilot programme has now been introduced that would allow degree programme students to provide an alternative to bank statements as a method of proof of finances. The alternative method is an "education bond" with a minimum value of €10,000. The bond must be lodged to an approved student fees payment service (e.g. the electronic fee payment service offered by EduStep [formerly International Student Payments Service, ISPS])*

The bond must be held continuously from the initial visa application through to the time the student registers in Ireland with the immigration authorities. This is to ensure that the necessary funds exist and are reserved for the personal use of the student. The bond will be cashable when the student arrives in Ireland or if for any reason the visa is refused or the student decides not to take up their place in the college.

A receipt showing that a bond has been paid by the applicant will generally be accepted by ISD as evidence of finances. However, the applicant should be aware that they may also be asked to provide additional evidence of finances if that is considered necessary. Upon their arrival in the State the funds will be released to the student.

Note: Students who participate in a bond payment scheme should note that this is a contractual arrangement between them and the bond service provider. Immigration Service Delivery is not a party to any contract entered into between a student and a bond service provider. Students who are enrolled on the type of courses listed below are not obliged to participate in a bond payment system, and may prefer to provide the normal evidence of finances as set out above.

Types of Courses and Colleges eligible for participation in the Student Bond System.

Degree programme courses are defined as courses which lead to an award of

• Ordinary Bachelor Degree
• Honours Bachelor Degree
• Higher Diploma (after completion of an Honours Bachelor Degree)
• Postgraduate Diploma (after completion of an Honours Bachelor Degree)
• Masters Degree
• Doctoral degree

The ‘award’ as set out above must be made by one of the following types of awarding body:

A recognised Irish awarding body i.e.

• Dublin Institute of Technology
• Higher Education and Training Awards Council
• Institutes of Technology with delegated authority to make awards
• Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland
• Universities
• Other bodies that have statutory powers under Irish law to make awards

Certain ‘awards’ offered by international universities which satisfy the above definition will also be regarded as Degree Programme courses.

* The Department of Justice is at all times willing to consider proposals from other providers of student fee payment services to have their services accepted for visa purposes

Other Documents

A Letter of Acceptance from the Irish university, college or school, confirming you have been accepted and enrolled on a course of full-time education, involving a minimum of 15 hours organised daytime tuition each week:

This letter must name you (the applicant) and verify the title/ duration of the course.

The letter should also contain the programme code from the Interim List of Eligible Programmes (ILEP).

It should also confirm the amount of fees payable for your course, and that this amount has been paid. (If availing of the “education bond” facility please refer to further details below.)

If the college has taken out medical insurance on your behalf, details of this must be contained in this letter of acceptance. If it is not arranged by the college, you must organise this yourself and provide evidence with your application.

Evidence that you have the academic ability to follow your chosen course - You must provide evidence that you have attained the necessary level of academic achievement required to follow your chosen course. Such evidence will include – exam results, qualifications obtained and certificates proving your Level of English.

You must submit all exam results obtained, along with your qualification certificates - If you have graduated from senior middle school, you must supply your original graduation certificate. If you have graduated from a 3rd level course then you need only supply your most recent graduation certificate and your CHSI report – if applicable.

If you are currently studying, an original letter from your current place of study. This letter should include a contact name, address and phone number for the school, details of your course and its duration and your CHSI report – if applicable.

Gaps in your educational history - You must provide information to account for any gaps between your last period of full time education and your application to study in Ireland. If any such gap in education has been filled by periods of employment, you must give full details of your employment history.

Evidence that all fees have been paid prior to the visa application being submitted to the Visa Office must be provided. These applications should contain either:

• a copy of an Electronic Transfer of Funds from the applicant to the Irish Bank of the college, showing details of beneficiary's name, address, bank details and the same details for sender and a copy of a letter/receipt from the Irish College confirming that the fees has been received, or
• a valid receipt showing that the course fees have been lodged to an approved student fees payment service. (e.g. the electronic fee payment service offered by EduStep [formerly International Student Payments Service, ISPS] )

Where the course fees are less than €6,000, fees must be paid in full to the college. Where the course fees are in excess of €6,000, you must pay at least this amount. This minimum amount is an Immigration requirement. However, the college you wish to attend may require full payment of fees.

Fees paid to the college are a matter between the student and the college. However, in the event of the visa application being refused the college should refund the fee (less any small administration charge) within a reasonable period.

Standard of English

Except in the case of an application which is solely for an English language course, you must show that you have the capacity to fully partake in your chosen course through the medium of English and satisfy the Visa Officer in this regard.

English Language Requirement see here: English language requirements for study visas - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie)

Any certificate must have been issued within 2 years of the expected commencement date of your course.

Short-term Preparatory English Language Courses

If you have been accepted on a specific course of studies, but you need, or are required, to complete a preparatory course of English prior to commencing your main course, the following requirements apply:

• English language course must be short term, and not exceed a maximum duration of 6 months
• You must submit a detailed study plan, including the duration and dates of your preliminary English course, and details and dates of your main course of study
• You must submit evidence of all fees fully paid for both pre-sessional English course and 1st year of degree course.

Students Under 18 Years of Age

Applicants who have not completed formal 2nd Level Education - if you are applying for a course of 2nd level educational studies, the requirements outlined above for the preparatory English also apply.

Any person who wishes to pursue a 2nd Level Education in Ireland must be enrolled at a private fee-paying school or college.

In addition to the requirements outlined above, which apply to all students, applicants aged under 18 years must read under the relevant tab Special requirements for applicants under 18 years of age.

Non-Criminal record certificate

If you are leading a group of minors please provide a notarised certificate, legalised by the MFA (Apostille) (mfa.gov.cn) attesting to the lack of criminal convictions for crimes or offences under law. This certificate must not be older than 6 months from the date of issuance.

The granting of a visa to a person under the age of 18 years for the purpose of study does not give any entitlement to any other family member to accompany or join the student in the State.

Important – Previous Visa Refusals

If you have been refused a visa for any other country, details of this must be given. Submit the original letter issued to you by the authorities of that country. Concealment of visa refusals will result in your Irish visa application being refused - You must provide full details of all visa applications you have made for any country, including Ireland. If you have ever been in Ireland before, whether legally or illegally, you must give details of your time there. Failure to disclose any of these details will result in your current application being refused.

You must provide details of any members of your family who are currently in Ireland or any other EU State.

Students who intend staying in Ireland for more than 90 days are required to register with the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB).

Please note that any document submitted in Chinese, must be accompanied by an official English translation.

You are required to provide a copy of all original documents.

The provision of all the documentation listed in no way guarantees that a visa will be granted. Please do not purchase travel tickets prior to a decision being made on the visa application. Doing so may lead to unnecessary additional costs in circumstances where a visa is not granted.

Before you complete your visa application please thoroughly read the information contained in General Information for all Visa types.

Useful Links

www.educationireland.ie A government website which has useful information relating to the Irish education system, third level institutions, courses, learning English and further links.

www.acels.ie The Advisory Council for English Language Schools established under the auspices of the Irish Department of Education & Science to control standards in EFL schools. Contains the official list of schools and organisations recognised by the Department of Education & Science.

www.gov.ie This site will help you to find government organisations or information by providing links, indices of recent publications and a search engine that searches all government sites. There is also general information about Ireland.

For information in English on the Irish education system and third-level education in Ireland (undergraduate and postgraduate), as well as information on studying English in Ireland and a list of language schools visit the Education Ireland website.

A non-EEA national requires a Work Permit to work in Ireland (The European Economic Area (EEA) comprises the European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway).

If you are visa-required national and are travelling to Ireland to take up employment you should present the following with your visa application:

Personal Documents and Fees

• Passport, valid for 12 months after your proposed date of arrival in the State. Please include 2 photocopies of the passport bio page. If you have held a previous passport, you must submit your previous passport with your application. If you are unable to provide your previous passports, you must submit a letter of explanation in English and a supporting letter issued by the Public Security Bureau.
• Signed summary of your on-line application form. Please refer to our How to Apply Page for details.
• 2 passport sized colour photos taken in the past six months that meet our specifications.
• A signed letter of application outlining the nature and duration of your visit to Ireland and including contact details.
• Photocopy and official English translation of applicant's hukou
• Copy of 10-year Chinese immigration records from the National Immigration Administration Bureau (https://s.nia.gov.cn.) This is a free service which is also available on WeChat.

Please follow these links for information on Visa Fees & VFS service charge and payment methods.

Please follow these links for information on VFS and Visa Application Centres

For applicants residing in Mainland China Apply for a visa | vfsglobal

For applicants residing in Hong Kong Welcome to VFS Global | vfsglobal

For applicants residing in Mongolia Welcome to VFS Global | vfsglobal

Supporting Documentation

The documents below are important because they provide information about your personal circumstances in the country from which you are applying.

The onus is on you to satisfy the Visa Officer that a visa should be granted for the purpose sought.

The submission of any or all of these documents does not guarantee that your application will be successful.

Original documents must be provided.

If you submit a document that is not in English, it must be accompanied by a full translation. Each translated document must contain:

• confirmation from the translator that it is an accurate translation of the original document;
• the date of the translation;
• the translator’s full name and signature; and
• the translator’s contact details.

All letters submitted from a business, company or other organisation should be on official headed paper and give full contact details so that they can be verified. These must include a full postal address, name of contact, position in the organisation, telephone number (landline), website, and email address (email addresses such as Yahoo or Hotmail are not accepted).

The Visa Officer considers each application on its own merits and may request additional information or documentation.

Guide to Supporting Documentation

Your signed and dated summary application form and the appropriate fee (where applicable) must be accompanied by the supporting documentation set out below.

If you do not submit the required documentation your application may be refused on the basis of insufficient documentation.

Two colour passport sized photographs not more than 6 months old

Your name and visa application reference number must be printed clearly on the back. More information on photograph requirements here.

Your current passport and a full copy of all previous passports

Your current passport must be valid for at least 12 months after your proposed date of arrival in Ireland.

A signed letter of application including your full contact details

• outlining your reason for wanting to come to Ireland,
• providing details of any members of your family who are currently in Ireland, or any other EU Member State, or the UK.
• providing details of how long you intend to stay in Ireland,
• providing details of where you intend to stay while you are in Ireland,
• undertaking that you will observe the conditions of your visa, that you will not become a burden on the State, and that you will leave the State on the expiry of your permission to remain.

Employment Permit from the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment

You must provide one of the following with your application:

• Critical Skills Employment Permit,
• General Employment Permit,
• Intra-Company Transfer Employment Permit,
• Contract for Services Employment Permit,
• Exchange Agreement Employment permit,
• Internship Employment Permit,
• Sports & Cultural Employment Permit,

Employment Contract (if any)

Letter from employer in Ireland

• confirming details of the job you will take up,
• the salary you will be paid, and if the employer is providing you with accommodation, details of the accommodation.

Evidence of qualifications and previous work experience

Evidence of qualifications and previous work experience must be submitted in support of the visa application. Examples in which experience and qualifications could potentially be demonstrated include:

• 3 most recent payslips,
• regular salary payments to your personal bank account,
• employment letter from your current employer,
• personal tax statements,
• professional certificates, training certificates etc.

Finances

• You must provide an up-to-date bank statement, showing what money has been paid into and out of the account over the last six months.
• Bank statements must be on headed paper - internet printouts will not be accepted.
• Your name, account number and account type must be visible on the statement.

Medical/Travel Insurance

Evidence of medical/travel insurance does not need to be provided with your application. However, the Visa Officer may request it before they make a decision on your application.

If your visa is approved, you must have evidence of medical/travel insurance when you arrive at the port of entry (airport/seaport) and must present it to the Immigration Officer on request.

Previous Visa Refusals

If you have been refused a visa in the past for any country, including Ireland, you must provide full details, including the reason for refusal.

The original letter issued to you by the authorities of that country must be provided with your application.

Not disclosing any previous visa refusals will result in your application being refused.

Non-criminal record certificate:

If you are aged over 18, a notarised certificate, legalised by the appropriate authority in your country of residence, (for example MFA (Apostille) 附加证明书 (mfa.gov.cn), ) The certificate should attest to the lack of any criminal convictions for crimes or offences under law. This certificate must not be older than 6 months from the date of issuance.

Activities not permitted with this Visa

You are not permitted to take up any form of employment, other than that for which you have already been approved.

Important

Do not include false or misleading information or documents in your application. If you do, your application will be refused. In some circumstances, such as the provision of false employment details and false bank statements your visa application will be refused and you will not be allowed to apply for an Irish Visa for a period of 5 years.

Agents

If you engage the services of an agent to assist in your visa application it is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that no false or misleading information is submitted.

Important: If you wish to apply for a visa as a family member of an EU citizen exercising or planning to exercise their free movement rights under Directive 2004/38/EC (transposed into Irish law by European Communities (Free movement of Persons) Regulations 2006 and 2008) the appropriate visa type is a Short Stay Visa. Please see webpage on Family Members of EU/EEA/Swiss citizens.

1.  Government Policy on Non-EEA Family Reunification

If you wish to come to Ireland to reside for longer than 3 months with a family member who is an Irish citizen or who is lawfully resident in Ireland you can apply for a long stay (join family) visa.

A comprehensive statement of national immigration policy on the area of family reunification is contained in the Policy Document on Non-EEA Family Reunification published on 31 December 2013.

The policies do not apply to:

• applications pursuant to Directive 2004/38/EC on the rights of citizens of the Union and their family members to move and reside freely within the territory of Member States.
• applications for family reunification by recognised refugees or persons granted subsidiary protection.

Before you apply for a long stay (join family) visa please read the Policy Document carefully to find out:

• who is eligible to be a sponsor for the purposes of an application for family reunification,
• who may be sponsored and the eligibility requirements,
• whether waiting periods apply before a person becomes eligible to sponsor,
• whether a sponsor must achieve a minimum level of earnings prior to being eligible to sponsor,
• what a person who is granted a join family visa may do in Ireland,
• how dependency is measured when this is adduced in support of an application for family reunification.

2.  When you can apply

If you wish to come to Ireland to reside for longer than 3 months with a family member who is an Irish citizen or who is permitted to reside in Ireland you can apply for a long stay (join family) single entry or multiple-entry visa.

Visa required nationals who hold a valid IRP/GNIB card no longer need a re-entry visa to travel to Ireland. The IRP/GNIB card and passport are sufficient. You are advised to apply for a multiple-entry visa if you intend to travel outside of Ireland within 4 months of your arrival and while you are awaiting issuance of your IRP card.

Children aged 0-15 are not issued with an IRP/GNIB card. Their parents or guardians will be able to apply for a re-entry visa for them, to ensure that they can travel in and out of Ireland while living here*. This re-entry visa can be applied for when living in Ireland (all other visas must be applied for from outside the State).

*Current information on re-entry visas can be found here: Application for re-entry visas for minors (under 16).

3. How to apply

You must apply online for a visa.

When you have completed the online application process, you must follow the instructions on the summary application form that is created by the online system. You will then be directed to the VFS website, where you can make an appointment at one of our Visa Application Centres in China. The summary form which you must print, sign and date must be submitted with your supporting documentation at the Visa Application Centre.

You may be required to provide your Biometrics as part of the application process at the Visa Application Centre, please see the link: Biometrics information.

A guide to supporting documentation is set out below.

If you submit any false or misleading information, or false supporting documentation as part of your application, it may result in the refusal of your application without the right of appeal. It may also result in you being prevented from making further Irish visa applications for a period of 5 years.

4.  Fees

For information on the fee that you are required to pay, or to see if you are exempt from the requirement to pay the visa fee please see here: Preclearance and entry visas fees.

You will be required to pay additional charges e.g. relating to the submission of your documents (Visa Application Centre fee). Details of these charges are available on the VFS website.

5.  How long it will take

Applications are processed in date order. You are advised not to purchase travel tickets before you know the outcome of your visa application.

Business targets for the processing of join family visa applications are as follows:

• Sponsor is an Irish citizen

You can expect that your application will be dealt with within 6 months of receipt of all required documentation.

• Sponsor is a person who is entitled to apply for immediate family reunification

You can expect that your application will be dealt with within 6 months of receipt of all required documentation.

• All other sponsors

You can expect that your application will be dealt with within 12 months of receipt of all required documentation.

These business targets reflect the detailed assessment that is required to be carried out in relation to applications for family reunification. They in no way constitute a legal obligation or convey any indication that an application not decided within the timeframe will, in default of a decision, be resolved in your favour.

If your application is being processed by the Visa Office, Irish Immigration Service, Department of Justice, 13-14 Burgh Quay, Dublin you can check the date of the applications currently being processed here: Visa Decisions.

6.  Supporting documentation

The documents below are important because they provide information about your personal circumstances.

The onus is on you to satisfy the Visa Officer that a visa should be granted for the purpose sought.

The submission of any or all of these documents does not guarantee that your application will be successful.

Original documents must be provided.

If you submit a document that is not in English/Irish, it must be accompanied by a full translation. Each translated document must contain:

• confirmation from the translator that it is an accurate translation of the original document,
• the date of the translation,
• the translator’s full name and signature, and
• the translator’s contact details.

All letters submitted from a business, company or other organisation should be on official headed paper and give full contact details so that they can be verified. These must include a full postal address, name of contact, position in the organisation, telephone number (landline), website, and email address.

The Visa Officer considers each application on its merits and may request additional information or documentation.

Guide to Supporting Documents

1. Fully completed and signed application summary sheet.

2. Payment confirmation receipt.

3. 2 colour passport sized photographs not more than 6 months old and complying with the photograph requirements on the Photograph rules for visa applications.

4. Your original current passport, original previous passport(s)

1 photocopy of your current and past passport(s), printed and verified by the VFS, showing bio-data page and all exit/entry stamps & visas. Full photocopy of all pages is not required.

Your current passport must be valid for at least 12 months from date of your proposed entry into Ireland. Your passport must have sufficient space for a visa to be inserted in it; at least 2 empty pages are required.

If you are not a citizen of the country where you are applying from (the country of application), you must also submit evidence of your permission to reside in the country of application e.g. a residence card.

Note: A police report must be submitted confirming reported lost/stolen passports. report must be submitted confirming reported lost/stolen passports.

5. Your original Hukou booklet, a full photocopy (all pages) and an English translation (Chinese Nationals only).

6. A copy of your Chinese identity card or of your residence permit (for foreigner).

7. A signed and dated letter of application including the applicant’s full contact details. The letter should:

• Be signed by the visa applicant with full contact details (email, phone, postal address).
• Declare applicant’s reason for coming to Ireland.
• Declare details of the family member in Ireland, who is sponsoring the visa application.
• Declare details of any other members of your family who are currently in Ireland, or any other EU Member State.
• Declare details of all dependent children.

8. Sponsor’s status/eligibility to sponsor:

• In the case of a sponsor who is an Irish citizen and residing in Ireland, a clear and legible copy of the sponsor’s passport or other documentary evidence attesting his/her citizenship.
• In the case of a sponsor who is an Irish citizen and residing in a country other than Ireland, a clear and legible copy of the sponsor’s passport showing evidence of residency in the country where they are residing.
• In the case of a sponsor who is a non-EEA citizen:
  • a clear and legible copy of all pages of the sponsor’s passport (including bio-data page and all other pages, including blank pages).
  • a valid copy of the sponsor’s Irish Residence Permit/GNIB card (an identity document issued by the Irish immigration authorities).

9. Evidence of claimed relationship between visa applicant and sponsor:

• You must provide evidence of your claimed relationship with your sponsor. The onus of proof as to the claimed relationship rests on you and your sponsor. The nature of the evidence required will depend on the relationship claimed e.g. spouse, civil partner, de facto partner, child, or elderly dependent relative. Below are some of the main types of relationships claimed and corresponding supporting documentation required. Original certificates, full photocopies and English translations must be provided.

10. Spouse or civil partner:

• Original marriage certificate or civil partnership certificate – marriages/civil partnerships must be capable of recognition under Irish law for other purposes outside of the immigration system.
• A notarised copy of marriage certificate, legalised by MFA (Apostille) 附加证明书 (mfa.gov.cn). Or a notarised copy of civil partnership certificate, legalised by the Irish Embassy.
• In the case of previous divorce or widowhood, a notarised certificate of divorce / death of spouse, legalised by the MFA (Apostille) 附加证明书 (mfa.gov.cn).
• If your sponsor (spouse/civil partner) is residing in Ireland and you have not resided together since your marriage/civil partnership, you must also provide a full account of your relationship history (where and when you met evidenced by e.g. visas, entry/exit stamps on the passport of your spouse, photographs, correspondence by e-mail, telephone etc.).
• For immigration purposes it is not sufficient for a relationship to have developed solely over the internet or by telephone/text message. A relationship must include a number of face-to-face meetings (excluding webcam) between the parties.

Child (under 18 years and not married):

• Original birth certificate/adoption order.
• Chinese Birth Certificate: Notarised copy of the child's birth certificate, legalised by MFA (Apostille) 附加证明书 (mfa.gov.cn). If applicable, a notarised Chinese adoption order, legalised by MFA (Apostille) 附加证明书 (mfa.gov.cn). Birth certificates/adoptions orders from other third countries must be notarised in accordance with the legal procedures of that country.
• Irish Birth Certificate: Only the original Irish birth certificate and an original photocopy is required. It does not need to be notarised or legalised.
• Notarised letter of permission for the child to relocate to Ireland, signed by both parents or legal guardians, legalised by MFA (Apostille) 附加证明书 (mfa.gov.cn) if the parents/legal guardians are residing China, and when not residing in China, attested by the relevant authorities in the country of residence. If the parents are residing in Ireland, the letter of permission to relocate must be notarised by a practicing solicitor in Ireland. The letter of permission must not be older than 6 months. The letter of permission must declare that the child can permanently leave China. It must clearly state with whom the child will be travelling to Ireland and with whom the child will reside in Ireland.
• In cases where the parents are divorced, a notarised copy of the divorce decision, legalised by the MFA (Apostille) 附加证明书 (mfa.gov.cn) (if the divorce was obtained in China), stating to whom of the parents full guardianship was entrusted. If the divorce was obtained in Ireland or elsewhere, a notarised copy of the divorce decision by a practicing solicitor will be sufficient.
• In cases where one parent/guardian is deceased, notarised certificate of death of spouse/guardian, legalised by the MFA (Apostille) 附加证明书 (mfa.gov.cn), if the death occurred in China. If the death occurred in Ireland or elsewhere, the certificate of death should be notarised in accordance with the applicable legal procedures of that country.
• A copy of both parents'/guardians' passport bio-data page and signature page must be provided.

If the child is travelling to Ireland in the company of a person, who is not the child's parent/guardian (for example, with a grandparent), a copy of the accompanying adult's passport bio-data page and signature page must be submitted.

De facto partner (a de facto partnership refers to a relationship akin to marriage including cohabitation for 2 years prior to the application for family reunification):

• Original evidence supporting the existence of your de facto relationship e.g. registration certificate of partnership (if applicable), evidence of common ownership of property, joint tenancy of property, on-going correspondence addressed to both partners at the same address, financial dependence/interdependence or any other relevant documentary evidence.
• A full account of your relationship history (where and when you met evidenced by e.g. visas, entry/exit stamps on the passport of partner, photographs, correspondence by email, telephone etc.).

Elderly Dependent Relative:

• Notarised birth certificate of sponsor/notary certificate of family relationship legalised by MFA (Apostille) 附加证明书 (mfa.gov.cn)/notarised adoption order, legalised by MFA (Apostille) 附加证明书 (mfa.gov.cn) showing parentage of sponsor.
• A notarised undertaking, signed by the sponsor, stating that he/she will bear personal and complete financial responsibility for the elderly dependent relative and that any State funds availed of will be reimbursed by them to the State. The undertaking must also give detailed provision for the accommodation of the elderly dependent relative in Ireland. The undertaking must also state that the sponsor will take out private medical insurance in respect of the elderly dependent relative at or above the level of VHI Plan D or equivalent in Ireland.
• For more detailed conditions and information see: Dependent elderly relative.

10. Finances:

Original, full photocopy and English translations of all documents required.

You must provide evidence of your finances and those of your sponsor including evidence to show that your sponsor meets the minimum level of earnings required (please refer to Chapters 17 and 18 of the Policy Document On Non-EEA Family Reunification.

• A detailed statement of your bank accounts covering a 6 month period immediately prior to your application.
• A detailed statement of your sponsor’s bank accounts covering a six month period, immediately prior to your visa application.
• Letter from sponsor’s current employer on official headed paper, giving full contact details of employer for verification purposes.
• Evidence of projected earnings e.g. copy of contract of employment etc.
• In the case of a sponsor who is resident in Ireland, evidence that they meet the minimum level of earnings required – Employment Detail Summary (previously P60s) for the 3 years immediately prior to the date of your application and 3 recent consecutive pay slips.
• If your sponsor is self-employed in Ireland, Notices of Assessment of income from self-employment for the three most recent years, and evidence of earnings in the period since the most recent tax return was filed.
• In the case of a person who is eligible to sponsor applications for immediate family reunification: critical skills employment permit, Irish Investor Programme letter from ISD, researcher (scientific) hosting agreement, evidence of Intra Company Transfer, evidence of Business Permission, evidence that sponsor is full-time non-locum doctor in employment in Ireland.
• In the case of a person who is eligible to sponsor applications for family reunification after 12 months: Non-critical skills employment permit, evidence sponsor is Minister of Religion, in additional to standard financial evidence.
• In the case of an employment permit holder a copy of their employment permit and a contract of employment covering at least 1 year from your proposed date of entry showing annual salary.

11. Evidence of dependency:

If you are making your application on the basis of financial and social dependency on your sponsor you must provide documentary evidence to establish that you are actually financially dependent on your sponsor:

• Amount, frequency and duration of the financial support provided by your sponsor (e.g. copies of your sponsor’s bank statements showing transfers to your account, copies of your bank statements showing receipt of those amounts).
• Any other sources of income that you may have.
• If you have no other source of income, evidence of why you are unable to work, why you are not eligible for state benefits etc.
• Your living costs (e.g. evidence of mortgage/rent, utility, food, medical, education payments).
• Details of any other family members in your country of residence.

Your medical condition (where relevant), relationship with the sponsor including evidence of active and continuous involvement in your life e.g. evidence of visits, correspondence.

12. Medical/Travel Insurance (not required at time of visa application):

• Evidence of medical/travel insurance does not need to be provided with your application. However, the Visa Officer may request it before they make a decision on your application. If your visa is approved, when you arrive at the port of entry (airport/seaport) evidence of medical/travel insurance must be presented to the Immigration Officer upon request.

13. Previous visa refusals:

• If you have been refused a visa in the past for any country, you must provide the details. The original letter issued to you by the authorities of that country must be provided with your application.

Note: Not disclosing any previous visa refusals will result in your application being refused.

14. Evidence of sufficient accommodation in Ireland:

• You are required to submit evidence of where you will permanently reside in Ireland and how accommodation costs will be covered (house purchase contract in sponsor’s name, lease agreement etc.). 

15. Non-criminal record certificate:

• If you are aged over 18, a notarised certificate, legalised by the MFA (Apostille) 附加证明书 (mfa.gov.cn), attesting to the lack of any criminal convictions for crimes or offences under law. This certificate must not be older than 6 months from the date of issuance.

Note: This requirement does not apply to family members of Irish or EU/EEA citizens.

7. Return of documents

All documents accompanying your application must be originals.

You should keep copies of all the documents that you provided.

All documents (with the exception of your passport) will be returned to you at the VFS Visa Application Centre.

8. What activity is and is not permitted

The activities that will be permitted (e.g. right to work without an employment permit, establish or manage/operate a business) will depend on the immigration permission granted to you by the Irish immigration authorities following your entry to the State.

If you are an immediate family member of an Irish citizen you will receive a Stamp 4 immigration permission which will allow you to work without an employment permit or to establish or manage/operate a business.

If you are an immediate family member of a non-EEA sponsor or are a non-immediate family member of an Irish citizen you will have dependent status only and will continue to be subject to the employment permits requirements as operated by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment. You will be entitled to apply for immigration status in your own right under the various channels available (e.g. student, work permit, business permission etc.).

If you require further assistance, please Contact Us.

Application requirements for Non-EEA Family members of EU/EEA/Swiss citizens seeking to apply under Directive 2004/38/EC (Free Movement Directive)

If you wish to apply for a visa as a family member of an EU/EEA/Swiss citizen exercising or planning to exercise their free movement rights under Directive 2004/38/EC the appropriate visa type is a Short Stay Visa.

In the event that your visa application is approved, you will be issued with a single journey short-stay ‘C’ category visa, which will permit you to enter and reside in the State for up to 90 days.

If you wish to proceed with your application under the Directive, you must apply (when in the State) for a Residence Card of a family member of a Union citizen within 90 days of arrival. 

For further details on visa application requirements see: http://www.inis.gov.ie/en/INIS/Pages/Family%20Members%20of%20EU_EEA%20_Swiss%20citizens

Short-Stay Multiple-Entry Visas (less than 90 days)

You may apply for a single-entry or multiple-entry visa when selecting a short-stay visa category option in the online visa application form.

In line with Ireland's on-going commitment to encourage and strengthen links between Ireland and the People's Republic of China, the availability of multiple-entry short-stay visas for business and visit visa applicants has been extended. This is a further development of the very favourable Irish visa package for Chinese visitors that already includes access to the British-Irish Visa Scheme and the Irish Short-Stay Visa Waiver Programme in addition to the standard Irish short-stay visa.

Visit Visas

Five-year multiple-entry short-stay visit visas will be considered for visit category applicants with a proven reliable travel history as evidenced by a visa previously granted by Ireland, the United Kingdom, the Schengen States, Australia, Canada, New Zealand or the USA and compliance with the terms of those visas.

One-year, two-year, or three-year multiple-entry short-stay visit visas will be considered for visit category applicants who have a limited compliant travel history and who are assessed as bona fide travellers.

Business Visas

Five-year multiple-entry short-stay business visas will be considered for business category applicants with a satisfactory compliant previous Irish visa history who can demonstrate established and on-going business concerns in Ireland.

One-year, two-year, or three-year multiple-entry short-stay business visas will be considered for business category applicants who can show a compliant travel history in each or one of the following countries: Ireland, the United Kingdom, the Schengen States, Australia, Canada, New Zealand or the USA, and who are assessed as bona fide travellers. The length of the visa granted will depend on the extent of the applicant's travel history.

Please note the issuance of a multiple-entry visa remains at the discretion of the Visa Office.

As in all cases the applicant must have at least six months validity remaining before the expiration date of his/her passport.

Note: If you have an Irish visa endorsed with 'BIVS', you may travel to the UK (including Northern Ireland) on this visa (after arriving in the Republic of Ireland first). Read more about the British Irish Visa Scheme.

A short-stay multiple-entry visa permits you to travel to Ireland on a number of occasions during the dates shown on you visa, for short trips only. It is not permitted to use a short-stay category visa to bypass immigration rules governing residency in the State i.e. to stay over 180 days within a 12 month period. Any abuse of this may result in you being refused entry at the port of entry or future visa applications being refused.

Long-stay Multiple-Entry Visas (longer than 90 days)

You may apply for a single-entry or multiple-entry visa when selecting a long-stay visa category option in the online visa application form.

Visa required nationals who hold a valid IRP/GNIB card no longer need a re-entry visa to travel to Ireland. The IRP/GNIB card and passport are sufficient. You are advised to apply for a multiple-entry visa if you intend to travel outside of Ireland within 4 months of your arrival and while you are awaiting issuance of your IRP card.

Children aged 0-15 are not issued with an IRP/GNIB card. Their parents or guardians will be able to apply for a re-entry visa for them, to ensure that they can travel in and out of Ireland while living here. This re-entry visa can be applied for when living in Ireland (all other visas must be applied for from outside the State).

For further information on the abolition of the adult re-entry visa system, please follow the link:http://www.inis.gov.ie/en/INIS/Pages/abolition-of-adult-re-entry-visas

Special additional requirements for applicants under 18 years of age

• Original Birth Certificate/Adoption Order, apostilled, must be submitted in all cases.
• Irish Birth Certificate: Only the original Irish Birth Certificate is required. It does not need to be notarised or apostilled.
• If applicant is travelling with one parent:
  • A notary certificate of permission to travel from the other parent.
  • The permission must be signed by the other parent who is not traveling – the signature should be the one on their passport. A copy of both parents’ passport biographic and signature page must be provided.
  • The permission should clearly state with which parent the child is permitted to travel to Ireland, the accommodation address, the person the child will be staying with in Ireland and the duration of visit.
  • The accompanying parent’s passport number will be recorded on the child’s visa sticker and will only be valid with that person.
• If the applicant is travelling alone:
  • A notary certificate of permission to travel from the parents.
  • The permission must be signed by both parents– the signature should be the one on their passport. A copy of both parents’ passport biographic and signature page must be provided.
  • The permission should clearly state that the child is permitted to travel to Ireland unaccompanied, the accommodation address, the person the child will be staying with in Ireland and the duration of visit.
• If the child will be accompanied by another adult:
  • A notary certificate of parental permission to travel must clearly state the name of the adult, with whom the child is permitted to travel to Ireland.
  • The permission must be signed by both parents – the signature should be the one on their passport. A copy of both parents’ passport biographic and signature page must be provided.
  • The permission must clearly state the accommodation address, and the person the child will be staying with in Ireland.
  • A photocopy of the authorised accompanying adult’s passport biographic and signature page. A letter from the adult confirming they are traveling with the child. The accompanying adult’s passport number will be recorded on the child’s visa sticker and will only be valid with that person.
• If one parent has sole guardianship for any reason, they must show apostilled evidence of this.
• Original school letter confirming absence for holiday purposes. Letter must include the contact details of the school and the school’s stamp.
• Where the child is residing with a relative, an apostilled certificate of kinship must be provided. The relative in Ireland needs to provide their invitation letter, IRP (if applicable) and passport copy.
• Where the child has been appointed a guardian during their stay in Ireland, Vetting from the Garda Síochána (the Irish Police) in respect of this guardian must be submitted. The guardian also needs to provide their IRP (if applicable) and passport copy.
• Where the child is residing with a host family other than relatives, Vetting from the Garda Síochána (the Irish Police) in respect of that family must be submitted. The host family need to provide their IRP (if applicable) and passport copy.
• Group leader: If you are leading a group of minors please provide a notarised certificate, apostilled attesting to the lack of criminal convictions for crimes or offences under law. This certificate must not be older than 6 months from the date of issuance.
• Adopted child moving to Ireland – Letter from Adoption Authority of Ireland confirming adoption is recognised in Ireland - Adoption - RICA (aai.gov.ie)

Employment (Scientific Researcher) – Hosting Agreement required 

The visa applicant must submit a valid Hosting Agreement with the Irish third-level institution in respect of him/her. A person can stay for up to 5 years on an Employment(Scientific Researcher) permission, provided they he/she complies with the terms of their Hosting Agreement and immigration registration requirements. Family members of researchers on Hosting Agreements may apply for join family visas.

Further details on how to apply: http://www.inis.gov.ie/en/INIS/Pages/Researchers

Holders of long-stay 'D' category visas must register with immigration within 90 days of arrival in the State. We recommend that you book your registration appointment on-line before you travel to Ireland: http://www.inis.gov.ie/en/INIS/Pages/registration

The dependant/civil partner/spouse of a researcher on a Hosting Agreement has the possibility to seek an Employment Permit in the State. Further details: https://dbei.gov.ie/en/What-We-Do/Workplace-and-Skills/Employment-Permits/Permit-Types/Dependant-Partner-Spouse-Employment-Permit/

Visiting Academic

A visa can only be processed for a visiting academic if he/she has made a successful application to INIS Residence Division in Dublin for Stamp 0 permission before submitting their visa application. A copy of the Letter of Approval issued by INIS under this Scheme must be included as a supporting document when applying for a visa. The maximum period of residence allowed for a visiting academic is 9 months. Family members of visiting academic visa holders are not eligible to apply for join family visas. A processing time of 2 to 3 months should be allowed for the processing of Stamp 0 permission.

Further details on how to apply: http://www.inis.gov.ie/en/INIS/Pages/registration-work-academic

You are advised to email the Visiting Academic team in Dublin for further information in advance of submitting your application for visiting academic permission: unit2residencedivision@justice.ie

Holders of long-stay 'D' category visas must register with immigration within 90 days of arrival in the State. We recommend that you book your registration appointment on-line before you travel to Ireland: http://www.inis.gov.ie/en/INIS/Pages/registration

Atypical Working Scheme

Researchers/academics, who are funded but do not possess an Irish Employment Permit or Hosting Agreement, may apply for an atypical permission to stay in Ireland. This permission can only be granted for a stay of up to 12 months. A copy of the Letter of approval issued by INIS under this Scheme must be included as a supporting document when applying for an entry visa. Family members of atypical working permission holders are not eligible to apply for join family visas. Please allow for a processing time of at least 20 working days for atypical permission.

Further details on how to apply: http://www.inis.gov.ie/en/INIS/Pages/atypical-working-general

You are advised to email the atypical permission team in Dublin for further information in advance of submitting your application for an atypical permission: atypicalworkingscheme@justice.ie

Holders of long-stay 'D' category visas must register with immigration within 90 days of arrival in the State. We recommend that you book your registration appointment on-line before you travel to Ireland: http://www.inis.gov.ie/en/INIS/Pages/registration