Tourist Visa In Ireland: A Simple Guide

Ah, Ireland—a country of rugged coastlines, warm pubs, and complicated tourist visa paperwork. Just kidding!

It’s not that bad, especially if you know what you’re doing.

So before you dream of frolicking among the shamrocks, let’s break down how to secure that essential entry ticket: your tourist visa.

Living In Ireland

Situated in the North Atlantic in northwestern Europe, Ireland is the second-largest island of the British Isles. Split between the north and the south, most of the region is made up of the Republic of Ireland, while Northern Ireland forms part of the United Kingdom.

Ireland has been a member of the European Union since 1973 and is a member of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, the World Trade Organization, and the United Nations.

Home to 5.2 million people, Ireland boasts a mild oceanic climate, and the landscape comprises low-lying mountains and lush vegetation.

The country is one of the most attractive European destinations due to its rich cultural history, historic architecture, natural beauty, and thriving business environment.

Facts About Ireland

A Tech Giant

A thriving startup and IT culture and some of Europe’s most prominent research centers have contributed to Ireland’s status as one of the region’s most attractive countries for foreign direct investment.

The government is committed to supporting innovation, with Industry Development Agency Ireland and Enterprise Ireland encouraging modernization.

Excellent infrastructure and some of the fastest connection speeds in Europe have produced a golden tech environment.

Ireland is a favorite for US tech companies. Since IBM, the first US company to invest in the country, opened an office in 1956, many tech powerhouses followed suit, including Ericsson.

A year later, Microsoft, Dell, and Apple in the 1980s, and many more throughout the years. The 2000s saw Google, Yahoo, Amazon, eBay, and Mastercard, among others, opening operations in Ireland.

In addition, the Europe, Middle East, and Africa headquarters for social media forces Google, Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn can be found in Dublin’s Silicon Docks.

A Strong, Open Economy

Ireland has developed a reputation for being one of the most open economies in the world. The country greatly benefits from modern world trade and has shown how quickly it can adapt to fluctuating market conditions.

Ireland has often been ranked as one of the best countries in the world to do business in and provides optimal legislation and incentives for foreign businesspeople.

Investors can look forward to taking advantage of the following:

One of the EU’s fastest-growing economies
A very high quality of life ranking in the top five most developed nations on the UN’s Human Development Index, ahead of Canada, the UK, and the USA.
Some of the world’s most prestigious and well-known boarding schools and universities
A young, highly educated, English-speaking workforce
A favorable tax regime for investors, with corporate tax at 15%, compared to 35% in the USA
The 1st position in Europe for ease of paying taxes, according to PwC’s Paying Taxes 2020 report
An increasing number of multinationals and foreign businesses are relocating to Ireland for its generous incentives

Best Places To Visit In Ireland

Ireland is a country of beautiful and diverse landscapes.

Here, you’ll see rugged coasts lined with glacial-era limestone, vast peninsulas made up of sandy white beaches, and green hills that roll off into the distance.

You also experience modern cityscapes, Georgian architecture, and delicious Irish food and drink in Ireland.

Dublin

Make sure to roam Ireland’s capital city and its pretty canals lined with cobbled streets. Here, you’ll discover some of the best live Irish folk music you’ll ever tap your foot to.

Once you explore some of the capital’s historical and cultural attractions, you’ll wonder why you didn’t take a trip to Dublin sooner.

Tour Ireland’s oldest university, Trinity College Dublin, where you can see the Book of Kells. Another historical highlight you should visit is the grand St Patrick’s Cathedral.

Every trip to Dublin is complete with a visit to the Temple Bar District. As soon as you enter the famous quarters, you’ll hear live music from the many bars and pubs and buskers on the street.

Of course, you can only go home with having tried one of Ireland’s most famous exports: Guinness.

Whether you’re a staunch stout enthusiast or want to see why it’s so beloved in Ireland, visit the Guinness Storehouse. At this top attraction in Dublin, you’ll go behind the scenes at a working brewery and taste a perfectly poured pint.

Galway

The colorful harbor city of Galway is effortlessly cool, with its burgeoning art scene, rich musical background, and roots in Irish history and language.

You’ll enjoy the best sightseeing in Galway by exploring the city on foot. Stroll down the Salthill Promenade, dating back to the 19th century, and breathe in the sea air that rolls in from Galway Bay.

Take advantage of the opportunity to pass by Galway Cathedral, the Galway City Museum, and the medieval Kirwan’s Lane. This will give you a fascinating taste of the city’s heritage.

If you love soaking up local cultures through festivals, be sure to time your trip to Galway for one of the exciting events held here annually.

You could go along to the Galway International Arts Festival in mid to late July, for a complete immersion into the vibrant art, theatre, and music scene. Or savor one of the region’s finest delicacies at the Oyster Festival at the end of September.

Cork

Nestled on the banks of the River Lee, Cork is a bustling city with a history that can be traced back to the 6th century. Today, though, Cork has a reputation for being the foodie capital of Ireland.

The city has many inviting cafés, traditional pubs, and enticing restaurants serving everything you want to sink your teeth into. You’ll be able to enjoy a bit of everything, from hearty farm-to-table Irish fare to modern and flavourful vegan cooking.

Be sure to visit the English Market, with its high, ornate vaulted ceilings and grand marble fountain. This market sells some of the tastiest fresh produce in the region.

Cork also has plenty of eye-catching architecture for you to admire. As you walk around town, feast your eyes on grand Georgian streets and hidden alleyways that date back to the 17th century.

You’ll want to visit Blarney Castle if you’re a history buff. Situated just north of Cork, you’ll find this striking medieval stronghold in a picturesque setting, surrounded by leafy woodlands.

You could kiss the famous Blarney Stone, and perhaps you’ll be blessed with the gift of the gab, as the legend goes!

Ring Of Kerry

If you only take one Irish road trip, make it the Ring of Kerry. Whichever window you peer out of, you’re guaranteed impressive views along these 179 kilometers (111 miles) on the southwest coast of Ireland.

This circular route, part of the Wild Atlantic Way, takes you across the green hills and stunning coastlines of the Iveragh Peninsula.

You could enjoy activities such as fishing, golf, and water sports and stay the night at cozy hotels to experience the warm Irish hospitality. On clear nights, you may even be able to watch the sun melt into the vast North Atlantic Ocean.

Explore Killarney, where your Ring of Kerry road trip begins, and the beautiful Killarney National Park. Marvel at historical sites like Ross Castle, Muckross House and Abbey, and the ancient stone forts of Caherdaniel and Staigue.

Soak up stunning natural wonders at Torc Waterfall, the Skellig Islands, and the Gap of Dunloe mountain pass.

The Ring of Kerry is one of the best places to visit in Ireland for a remarkable snapshot of Irish culture and nature.

Dingle Peninsula

Also part of the famous Wild Atlantic Way route, the rugged Dingle Peninsula is brimming with natural charm. If you love hiking and wildlife watching, this is the place for you!

You’ll have 48 kilometers (30 miles) of scenic sights to explore in the Dingle Peninsula in southwest Ireland.

Roam remote shores; mountain ranges such as Slieve Mish, and pristine beaches. Stop by one of the small towns and seaside villages where you can immerse yourself in Irish traditions and culture.

During your visit to the Dingle Peninsula, you could take a boat tour of Dingle Bay to see dolphins and other marine wildlife. You can also hike up Mount Brandon or stroll along the sands at Inch Beach.

Take advantage of a trip along the Slea Head Drive, a circular route at the westernmost point of the peninsula.

Here, you’ll find fascinating artifacts at the Celtic & Prehistoric Museum and learn about life on this remote archipelago at the Blasket Centre. Moreover, you can see the Blasket Islands from the shore on a clear day.

What Is An Ireland Visitor Visa?

Ireland is home to 30,000 castles. If you are okay with the rainy weather, there is a lot to see, from historical monuments to museums and bustling cities in this country. The breathtaking natural landscapes of Ireland give the epithet “Emerald Isle”.

This small country attracts millions of visitors every year. You can never get bored in Ireland. Over 11.2 million people traveled to Ireland as tourists in 2019. This generated Euro 5.8 billion for the country’s economy.

Ireland Tourist Visa is also known as the Ireland Visitor Visa. This is a short-stay visa (C visa) that allows you pre-entry clearance. It helps you go through Border Control and request permission to enter the country.

This visa is only valid for a maximum of 90 days or less. The immigration officer will decide how long you can stay in the country.

As a foreign national, you can fall into any of these 3 categories for your right to visit the country. This depends upon your country of origin.

No Ireland Tourist Visa Required

You can travel to Ireland without applying for a visa if you are a citizen of any of the EU countries, from Switzerland, or the countries falling under EEA agreements.

No Ireland Tourist Visa Required But Subject To Border Control

Citizens other than EU countries or under the EEA agreement are granted visa-free travel to Ireland.

Such cases have to request permission to stay from the Immigration Officer at Border Control.

Both Ireland Tourist Visa And Border Control Are Required

All other citizens across the world have to apply for a visa if they want to travel to Ireland. They will also have to seek permission from the Immigration Officer at Border Control to stay in Ireland.

Types Of Ireland Tourist Visas

There are two main types of Ireland Tourist Visas.

Ireland Single-Entry Tourist Visa

allows you to enter the country only once. You cannot re-enter once you leave, even if there are remaining days on the visa.

Ireland Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa

This allows you to enter and leave the country as many times as you want. However, this is only issued in specific cases.

People already having received an Ireland Tourist Visa or need to make short and frequent trips, like for business, can avail of the Ireland Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa.

Transit Visa

People from a small number of countries on their way to another country will also need an Irish Transit Visa.

What Is The Eligibility Criteria For The Ireland Tourist Visa?

You will have to meet the following criteria to be eligible to travel to Ireland.

Be a genuine traveler.
Capable of bearing all expenses.
Have valid reasons to return.
Be in good health.
Be of good character.
The valid purpose for travel.

The Irish Embassy or Consulate reserves the right to ask for additional documents. A personal appearance for interviews in exceptional cases may also be desired.

The documents mentioned here do not guarantee to grant a visa. Visa applications may be rejected in case of incomplete documentation or refusal to appear.

What Documents Are Required For The Ireland Tourist Visa?

Here is an extensive list of all necessary documents required to be submitted by Indian passport holders seeking an Ireland Tourist Visa.

Valid Passport

Your passport should be valid for 6 months ahead of the span of your stay. It should have a minimum of two blank pages for the visa stamp. It should not be torn, ripped, split, or damaged in any way.

Photographs

Your face in the passport photograph must cover 80% of the frame.

Travel Documents

Air tickets need to be booked for the complete round trip. It should reveal your course of travel and confirm your return to the native country. This is an important document that needs to be submitted.

Travel Insurance

You cannot travel to Ireland without travel insurance. It should also be valid for your entire stay in the country. It should also mention your details as per those in the passport.

Covering Letter

This is the first document that is seen by the consular. Covering letters lacking relevant information may cause your visa to be rejected. Seek professional visa services while creating one to cover all necessary details.

How To Apply For The Irish Tourist Visa?

The below points give you a step-by-step procedure to get an Irish Visiting Visa.

Step 1: Download The Application

Step 2: Fill out the application with the correct details.

Step 3: Submit the online visa application form on the official website.

Step 4: After submission, you will be provided a declaration.

Step 5: Print the declaration into a hard copy, sign it, and keep it.

Step 6: The fee should be submitted at the mentioned place and time.

Step 7: Submit the application at the visa office/Irish consulate/Irish embassy.

What Follows The Submission Of Application?

The application status will be notified through SMS if you have opted for this service, or via email. Four SMS and email notifications are typically sent at various stages of processing.

Sometimes, you may be asked to provide more information or additional documents or attend another interview.

What Costs Are Involved With The Ireland Tourist Visa?

Application Fee for Ireland Tourist Visa is:

Single-Entry Tourist Visa: EUR 56.38
Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa: EUR 93.59
Transit Visa Fee: EUR 23.68

What Is The Processing Time For An Ireland Visitor Visa?

The Irish Visa has to be applied in an online form. Eight weeks is the visa processing period, which the Irish Naturalization and Immigration Service tells you.

That is, you must apply for the Ireland Visa at least 2 months before the period you plan to get to Ireland. But please apply even before that.

Ireland Travel Tips: What To Know Before You Go

Pack Smart

If you’re coming from the UK or other parts of mainland Europe, there are low-cost airlines you can snag a cheap seat with.

However, These have one major drawback, and that’s the baggage restrictions. So don’t get caught out – check the baggage allowances before you fly.

And no matter what you’re planning on doing when you arrive, the golden rule is to pack layers. Weather in Ireland is highly changeable – the sun could be beaming down one moment, and it could be cloudy and grey the next.

With some dramatic exceptions (we recommend googling The Beast from the East), you can expect moderate temperatures and a bit of light just about anytime, anywhere in Ireland.

This way, you can strip down or add layers as the weather changes throughout the day. Check the 10-day weather forecast and pack accordingly.

But remember, regardless of what the forecast says, a waterproof jacket and boots are a must. (we’re not joking when we say you could experience all four seasons in one day here!)

Bonus tip: Double-check your passport expiration date before traveling and ensure you have enough time to renew it if needed.

Travel Out Of Season If You Want Fewer Crowds Or Are On A Budget

Ireland’s peak season is the summer months, from about the middle of June through mid-September.

For much of this period, Ireland – particularly the coast – can be bathed in the sun, worth considering when deciding the best time to visit. If you’re planning to lie on a beach or surf, you’ll want to go in summer.

For outdoor pursuits, you’ll also find June to September the warmest and driest for walking and climbing.

The downside is you can be jostling with thousands of people at some of the more prominent attractions. You’ll also want to book your accommodation as far in advance as possible (and remember that peak season = peak prices).

One of the most significant benefits of traveling to Ireland in the off-peak season is having more time and space to explore comfortably. For reasonably good weather with less dense crowds, go in April, May, or October.

It’s also a bit cheaper to visit in the off-season – as the crowds thin out, the hospitality industry starts vying for the remaining travelers’ attention, which means better rates and deals.

Since the days are shorter in the winter, you must also consider that when planning to visit Ireland.

Choose Your Transport Carefully

If you’re planning a city break in Dublin, renting a car is only necessary if you plan to travel to the more rural parts of the island.

Most trips to Ireland will start and end at Dublin Airport, and you can easily pick up your car rental at one of NewWay’s desks in Terminals 1 and 2.

While you can get around a good chunk of the country using public transport, a car allows you to squeeze into the little country roads and explore some seriously hidden gems off the beaten track.

Also, there are some parts that a large bus cannot get to, so having your rental car is going to give you access to absolutely everything.

Finding Free Wi-Fi Is A Breeze

EU roaming charges were scrapped a few years back, meaning any EU visitors to Ireland can now “roam like at home”.

For the rest of you, there’s no need to fret about racking up a sky-high phone bill.

Ireland is chock full of places offering free Wi-Fi hotspots. Cafes, shopping centers, and pubs, in particular, like to provide free wifi to increase their business by attracting more customers.

You’ll also find free Wi-Fi hotspots in train and bus stations, public transport, museums, restaurants, airports, and all kinds of tourist hotspots throughout the country.

If you plan on visiting more remote parts of the island and have an unlocked phone, you can also pick up a SIM card relatively cheaply at the SPAR at Dublin Airport.

Book As Much As You Can In Advance Online

Want to keep your trip as affordable and stress-free as possible?

From flights to rental cars and accommodation to tickets for popular attractions, make sure you’re booking these well upfront, especially if you’re traveling in the summer high season.

The longer you dawdle, the fewer options you’ll have and the more you need to pay.

Conclusion

There you go! You’re one step closer to enjoying the Emerald Isle without any pesky visa hiccups. Whether it’s the Cliffs of Moher or a cozy Dublin pub you’re yearning for, your Irish dream is now within reach.

So go ahead, pack your bags and maybe even a four-leaf clover for good luck!

Travel Ready!

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