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Visa and legal requirements for studying in Ireland
We're here to help you understand and navigate Irish immigration requirements so you can focus on your studies.
Do you need a visa?
EU / EEA Nationals
No visa required. Study freely in Ireland with a valid EU passport or national ID card.
Non-EEA (under 90 days)
A short-stay visa may be required depending on your nationality.
Non-EEA (over 90 days)
A full Irish Study Visa (D Study Visa) is required before you travel. We'll provide your letter.
How to get your study visa
Enrol at Academic Bridge
Complete your enrolment and pay your course fee to receive your Letter of Acceptance.
Gather your documents
Valid passport, financial statements, accommodation details, and your Letter of Acceptance.
Apply online via AVATS
Submit your study visa application through the Irish immigration online system (avats).
Attend biometrics appointment
Visit the nearest Irish Embassy or Visa Application Centre in your country.
Travel to Ireland
Arrive with your visa, acceptance letter, and proof of accommodation ready.
Register with IRP
Register with the Irish Registration Office within 90 days of arrival in Ireland.
What you need to know as a student
Attendance Requirements
Immigration rules require a minimum 85% attendance rate. We monitor and report this.
Visa Renewal
If extending your stay, your visa and IRP card must be renewed before they expire.
IRP Registration
All non-EEA students must register at the Immigration Registration Office (Burgh Quay, Dublin).
Work Permissions
Study visa holders may work up to 20 hrs/week during term, 40 hrs/week during holidays.
Already in Ireland and renewing your visa?
Returning and transferring students get special rates and fast-tracked enrolment — speak to our team before your IRP renewal deadline.
Have questions about your visa?
Our admissions team can guide you through every step of the visa and IRP process.
Your Essential Legal Guide to Studying in Ireland
Clear, practical guidance on visas, registration, work permission, insurance and your protections as an Academic Bridge student.
EU / EEA, UK & Swiss nationals
No Irish entry visa is required. The immigration registration process below is for non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals staying longer than 90 days.
Short Stay C visa
Visa-required nationals taking a course of 90 days or less generally need a Short Stay C study visa. Other nationalities should check whether an entry visa is required.
Long Stay D visa
Visa-required nationals joining our standard 25-week programme need a Long Stay D study visa before travelling to Ireland.
Is Academic Bridge visa-eligible?
Academic Bridge presents its General English programme as listed on Ireland’s Interim List of Eligible Programmes (ILEP). For visa decisions, always verify the current programme record on the official list.
Why ILEP matters
Non-EU/non-Swiss students studying for more than 90 days must choose an approved programme listed on ILEP or an eligible programme from a TrustEd Ireland authorised provider.
Apply before you travel
Complete your application through the official Irish visa system and submit documents to the application office shown by AVATS, or follow the instructions from your local Irish embassy or consulate.
Apply as early as possible because processing times vary by country.
Your core document checklist
- Valid passport and required photographs
- Academic Bridge Letter of Acceptance
- Proof of course fee payment
- Proof of financial resources
- Private medical insurance details
- Any additional documents requested by your application office
Registering with Immigration
Non-EU/EEA/Swiss students studying for more than 90 days must register their permission. First-time appointments are booked online through the Digital Contact Centre for the Registration Office at 13-14 Burgh Quay, Dublin 2.
- Standard Stamp 2 fee: €300
- Bring your passport and all required Stamp 2 documents
- Bring your enrolment letter, insurance and proof of funds
Renewing Your Permission
Renewals for residents of the Republic of Ireland are completed online. You may apply up to 12 weeks before your current permission expires.
Applications are processed in the order received, so apply early and keep your submission acknowledgement.
Proof of Financial Funds
Students must be able to support themselves without relying on casual employment. For a course resulting in residence of eight months or less, current ISD guidance sets the figure at €833 per month, up to €6,665 in total.
Visa-required applicants normally show finances during the visa process. Non-visa-required students may need to show direct access to funds at registration.
See our Entry Requirements page for the student-friendly breakdown.
Working While You Study
- Up to 20 hours/week during term time
- Up to 40 hours/week during June, July, August and September, and from 15 December to 15 January
- You need a PPS Number before taking employment
The 2026 national minimum wage for workers aged 20 and over is €14.15/hour. Lower statutory age-based rates apply to workers aged 18 and 19.
Health Insurance
Private medical insurance is mandatory for non-EU/EEA students on the 25-week programme. Academic Bridge states that this cover is included in the course fee.
EU/EEA students should bring a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
Your Letter of Acceptance
After your fees are paid and the start date is confirmed, Academic Bridge issues your Letter of Acceptance or enrolment letter.
You will use it during the visa process and again after arrival. It confirms your programme, fees and included services such as insurance, exams, accommodation or airport pickup when booked.
Keep it accessible
Carry a printed copy with your passport, financial evidence, insurance and accommodation confirmation when travelling.
Your Legal Protections as a Student
Fee Protection
Academic Bridge states that Learner Protection Cover is provided through the Private College Network. Verify PCN information.
Right to Complain
Review Student Complaints and the grievance section of Policies & Procedures.
Data Protection
Your personal data is handled under the Privacy Policy in line with GDPR.
Refund Rights
Read the Refund Policy before paying to understand the terms that apply to enrolment.
Three legal reminders
- Maintain at least 85% attendance on your full-time English language programme.
- Stay within the working hours permitted by your Stamp 2 conditions.
- Renew your immigration registration before it expires.
Official Resources
Always check before you act: Immigration requirements, financial thresholds, fees and processing arrangements can change. Use the official resources above for the latest position.