Due to this, Ireland has now been made one of the most appealing places in Europe to students, workers, entrepreneurs and families that are in need of new opportunities. Ireland is well known as a country with a good economy, good education and a very accommodating nation. Individuals who intend to stay in Ireland longer than 90 days need a Long Stay visa “D” visa. The scope of this visa type is very broad with an inclusion of studying, working, conducting research, and reunification of family and other long-term stays.
This guide will discuss the requirements, eligibility, application stages, and tips to success in a step-by-step explanation of the Ireland Long Stay “D” visa process in 2025.
Ireland Long Stay “D” Visa
The Long Stay D visa is aimed at a person who intends to stay in Ireland beyond 3 months. The visa forms permitting a longer stay are available to the one working on the business trip of more than 90 days, unlike short stay C visas which permit a three-month duration only. It can also serve as a means to get residence permits and even permanent residency in Ireland depending on the category.
Categories of all activities under the D visa are:
- Study visa for international students
- Employment visa for skilled workers
- Research visa for researchers or academics
- Join family visa for family reunification
- Religious or volunteer visa for humanitarian purposes
Process requirements of each one of the categories is different, yet, as far as its application process is concerned, all types are similar.
Eligibility for the Ireland Long Stay “D” Visa
Acceptability would depend on what you are going to do. However, in general, applicants must:
- Possess an authentic passport of minimum 12 months.
- Show commitment to remain in Ireland for over 90 days.
- Demonstrate that they have funds to help themselves stay.
- Provide evidence of accommodation arrangements
- Bring the right documents to explain the travel purpose (job offer, University admission letter or documents on family relationship).
- Not a criminal record or of bad character.
- Business plans to obey the laws of Irish immigration and not be a liability to the state.
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Requirements for the Ireland Long Stay “D” Visa
The normal documentation includes the following:
- Application form of visa which is duly finished.
- Valid passport with blank pages for the visa
- Recent passport-sized photographs meeting Irish visa standards
- Signed letter to tell us the reason why you came to stay in Ireland.
- evidence of financial assist such as bank statements, sponsor letters, or scholarship information
- evidence of accommodation in eire (motel reserving, apartment agreement, or host invitation)
- Health insurance to your Irish stay.
Accompanied by documents to the category of visa:
- Students: Letter of acceptance of a school in the recognized Irish school.
- Workers: Employment contract or work permit from an Irish employer
- Family members: Proof of relationship with the Irish resident or citizen
- Researchers: Welcome letter by one of the renowned research institutions.
It should also be mentioned that every document that is in a different language but neither English nor Irish has to be translated and certified.
Step-by-Step Application Process for the Ireland Long Stay “D” Visa
Follow the steps below to get the visa
Step 1: Build the Visa Category.
The first one is to note what category you are using. It may be to study, work, reunite with their families or carry out some research, but all the reasons have slightly different requirements.
Step 2: Complete the Online Application
The D visa is also an online application made on the Ireland Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) portal. Applicants will need to complete the form correctly and give information on the purpose of visit, background and stay duration. An overview sheet and directions on the follow-up steps will be mailed to you after completing the form.
Step 3: Pay the Visa Fee
Applicants have to pay visa fees when applying. This price differs based on the type of visa you are applying for, i.e. single-entry visa or multiple entry visa. Most applicants are first timers and therefore require only a one entry visa.
Step 4: Collect the Documents That are Required.
After submission, the applicants need to have all the supporting documents. These are supposed to be well organized and photocopies provided where necessary. The absences of documents may result in timelags or refusals.
Step 5: Fill out your Application.
The application along with the payment of the fee and the supporting documents need to be submitted by the respective Irish embassy or the respective Irish consulate, in your country. There are also chances that some applicants will be required to give their biometrics.
Step 6: Wait for Processing
The processing time may also take different times, depending on the visa category and the nation you are applying to. The average time of applying is 8- 12 weeks, hence the applicants are reminded to apply way before a date they wish to travel.
Step 7: Receive Your Decision
Once this is accorded, the stamp will see its inscription in your passport. This will permit you to get to Ireland, and declare yourself to immigration officials at the border.
Step 8: Register with Irish Immigration
To be a Long Stay “D” visa holder does not necessarily give you the right to stay in Ireland after 90 days. Once they have collected in Ireland, the application is required to register at the local immigration office in 90 days. You will receive a residence permit also referred to as the Irish Residence Permit (IRP) which permits you to reside in the country legally as long as your visa is in existence.
Long Stay “D” Visa Processing Time
Average processing time of a Long Stay “D” visa is 8 -12 weeks. This may however depend on the number of applications, nationality and the nature of your visa.
Useful tips
- Application should be submitted at the earliest possible days to evade last minute shocks.
- Maintain the other documents fully filled, duly translated and certified wherever necessary.
- Provide clear proof of financial stability. Lack of funds is one of the causes of rejection.
- Make a truthful application and give the correct information.
- Retain a copy of any documents submitted by yourself.
Common Reasons for Visa Rejection
Applications can be refused on account of:
- Insufficient financial proof
- Documents that have been incomplete or are not complete.
- Inaccurate or false information
- Lack of valid medical insurance
- Lack of showing the true purpose of stay.
- Learning these reasons will assist the applicants make concessions and prevent errors.
FAQ’s
What do you mean by a “C- visa and B “D- visa in Ireland?
The C visa is granted to short-term visits at an expected duration of not more than 90 days whereas a D visa is granted to long-term visits over 90 days.
What is the duration of the Cool Stay “D” visa?
The visa will more likely be issued in accordance with the time frame of your planned stay, this is the course, job placement, or family reunion plan.
Can I work on a Long Stay “D” visa?
No, there is a limit to your category of visa. Student visa, as an example, allows part-time employment whereas employment visa allows full-time employment.
Should I get registered in Ireland on arrival?
Yes. Each and every holder of D visa has to enroll with the immigration in the span of 90 days of arrival in order to acquire an Irish Residence Permit.
Do I have a chance to continue my visit in Ireland when visa requests run out?
In some instances extensions can be offered like in the case of continuing education or employment whereby the applications should be made before your temporary level can run out.
What is the amount of money you need demonstrating financial evidence?
Depending on the type of visa applied, the sufficient amount is varied, but the applicant must show that s/he has enough financial resources to support their lifestyle, tuition (where necessary) and accommodation without depending on government support.
Sum up
Ireland long stay visa (Ireland Long Stay V record) is a vital measure that those intending to reside, pursue education or employment in Ireland throughout a span of over 90 days take. This visa offers an opportunity to students, professionals, researchers, and families since it comes in a variety of different categories based on their respective purposes. It includes a thorough approach to document preparation, applying in advance and adherence to the rules of immigration.