Latest visa updates

During this peak period, the Visa Office is continuing to process visa applications in line with our current processing times.

We are unable to assist in expediting applications, except for genuine family emergencies that require travel to Ireland, this is limited to serious illness of immediate family members or bereavement.

Here is information that may assist with the most common queries:

Do I need a transit visa?

Please see the following page, if your query is not answered here, please contact the Border Management Unit at Dublin Airport by email to bmu@justice.ie

https://www.irishimmigration.ie/at-the-border/transit-including-transfer-visa-advice/

What are the current processing times?

Our current processing times are listed here: https://www.ireland.ie/en/greatbritain/london/services/visas/visa-processing-times/

Can I check the status of my application?

We don’t provide status updates by email, but you can check the current status by creating an account on https://portal.irishimmigration.ie. You will need a valid passport or driving licence to create an account on here and you must use the same email address listed on your visa application.

Can I avail of BIVS or the Short Stay Visa Waiver Programme?

If you are resident in the UK, you cannot avail of either scheme (and your UK residence does not exempt from Irish visas). All other queries are answered here:

https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-visit-ireland/british-irish-visa-scheme/

https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-visit-ireland/short-stay-visa-waiver-programme/

I want to withdraw my application

Please complete the withdrawal form and send it by email to londonvisaoffice@dfa.ie

Can I retain my passport or withdraw it temporarily?

This is only offered as an additional service for applicants who have applied through VFS. Please contact VFS directly for any queries relating to this by email to irelandinuk@vfsglobal.com or by visiting your nearest Visa application centre.

Please note that we cannot offer this service to applicants who have applied by post from Northern Ireland, Isle of Man or Channel Islands (however it is open to applicants from these locations to apply in person at VFS if they wish).