british travel visa ireland

Visa Requirements for Entering Ireland

From Department of Foreign Affairs  

Published on 25 May 2018

Last updated on 25 March 2024

Information on the process of applying for a visa to enter Ireland, including details on who needs to apply for a visa and exemptions, documents required, where to apply, how to submit applications, appeals process and visa fees.

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Visa requirements for entering Ireland

Introduction, do i need a visa, types of visa, visa waivers for uk visa holders, school student visa waiver, do i need preclearance, how to apply for a visa orpreclearance, further information and contacts.

If you are travelling to Ireland and you are not a citizen of the UK, Switzerland, or a country in the European Economic Area (the EU plus Norway, Iceland and Lichtenstein), you may need to apply for a visa.

An Irish visa is a certificate placed on your passport or travel document that allows you to travel to Ireland. You still have to present your passport and documents to immigration control when you arrive at the airport or port, and an immigration officer may still refuse you entry to Ireland .

If you are travelling with children , you have to apply for a visa for your children too.

You may also have to register with immigration authorities .

Ukrainian citizens

From 25 February 2022, citizens of Ukraine do not need a visa to travel to Ireland . Read information for people who have arrived in Ireland from Ukraine .

You do not need a visa to land in Ireland if you:

• Are a citizen of the EU or the EEA (the EU plus Iceland, Norway and Lichtenstein) or Switzerland
• Have a residence card issued by an EEA country or Switzerland because you are the family member of an EEA or Swiss citizen living in a country outside of the EEA/Swiss family member’s home country (for example, you live in Germany with your French spouse)
• Have a UK short-stay visa and qualify for the short-stay visa waiver or the British-Irish Visa Scheme (see ‘Visa waivers for UK visa holders’ below)
• Are a school student who lives in an EU/EEA country and you are travelling as part of a school trip (see ‘School Student Visa Waiver’ below)
• Are a citizen of a country listed in the table below.

From 10 July 2024, nationals of Botswana and South Africa must get a visa before travelling to Ireland.

Note UK: Visa free travel also applies to the following types of British nationality:

• British national (overseas)
• British overseas territories citizen (previously called ‘British dependent territories citizenship)
• British overseas citizen

Visa free travel does not apply to people who have a British passport as a ‘British protected person'.

If you are moving to Ireland to live with your Irish de facto partner, a spouse or partner who holds a Critical Skills Employment Permit, or your UK spouse or partner, you have to apply for preclearance even if you are from one of the countries listed above (this does not apply to citizens of Switzerland or the UK). See ‘Do I need preclearance’ below.

If you have a short stay visa for the UK and are an Indian or Chinese citizen, you can travel to Ireland without a visa. See ‘Visa waivers for UK visa holders’ below.

Travelling with a refugee travel document

If you have a refugee travel document issued by a country outside Ireland, you must apply for a visa to enter Ireland. Visa free travel for travel document holders is suspended until further notice.

Family members of EEA/Swiss citizens

If you are coming to Ireland to join or accompany your EEA family member , you must apply for a visa if you are from a country that is not in the list above. If you are already living in another EEA country or Switzerland because you are the family member of an EEA or Swiss citizen who is exercising their free movement rights, you do not need a visa to travel to Ireland.

If you plan to stay in Ireland for more than 3 months you must apply for residence after your arrival.

The type of visa you need depends on the purpose and length of your stay in Ireland.

Short stay visas

If you want to come to Ireland for less than 3 months, you should apply for a short stay ‘C’ visa . You should apply for this type of visa if you want to come to Ireland as a tourist or to visit someone, for a business meeting, or to attend a short course.

You cannot stay for longer than 3 months on a ‘C’ visa. You must leave Ireland and apply for another visa if you want to return.

Long stay visas

If you want to come to Ireland for more than 3 months, for example to study, for work or to settle permanently in Ireland with family members who live in Ireland, then you can apply for a long stay ‘D’ visa .

If you are granted a long stay ‘D’ visa and wish to remain in the State for longer than 3 months you must register and get an Irish Residence Permit (IRP).

You can read more information about different types of visa available on the ISD website .

Re-entry multiple entry visas

The first visa issued to you is valid for a single entry to the State. If you leave Ireland, you must apply for another visa to travel to Ireland again.

If you have had single entry visas in the past and you have obeyed the conditions of those visas, you can apply for a multiple entry visa. You can also apply if you need to come to Ireland frequently for business. A multiple entry visa allows you to travel to Ireland on more than one occasion during the period that the visa is valid.

Re-entry visas for people who live in Ireland

If you have a valid Irish Residence Permit (IRP), you no longer need a re-entry visa to re-enter Ireland when traveling abroad. Children under 16 do not get an IRP. They can return to Ireland without a re-entry visa if they are travelling with parents or guardians. The parents or guardians must have an IRP.

Transit visas

If you are travelling through Ireland on your way to another country, you may need a transit visa when arriving in Ireland on their way to another country. A transit visa does not permit you to leave the port or airport. If you are a citizen of one of the following countries, you will need a valid Irish transit visa when landing in the State:

The Short Stay Visa Waiver Programme allows nationals of a number of Eastern European, Middle Eastern and Asian countries who have a short-term UK visa, to come to Ireland without the need for a separate Irish visa. The countries included in the scheme are:

• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• North Macedonia
• Philippines
• Saudi Arabia

Citizens of India and China , who have a short stay UK visa can travel to Ireland under the British Irish Visa Scheme (BIVS) without a separate Irish visa. You can also use your Irish visa to travel to the UK. Your visa must be endorsed with ‘BIVS’.

School students who are citizens of a country that would normally need a visa to enter Ireland can apply for a waiver if they live in an EU or EEA country and are travelling as part of a school trip.

The principal of the school must complete an application form and present this form to immigration upon arrival.

If you do not need a visa to come to Ireland, you may still have to apply for preclearance. Preclearance is permission to enter Ireland to apply to reside for certain reasons. You have to apply for preclearance if you want to come to Ireland:

• To volunteer
• As a minister of religion
• As the de facto partner of a Critical Skills Employment Permit or Hosting Agreement holder
• As the de facto partner of an Irish citizen
• As the family member of a UK citizen

A de facto partnership is when you are in a relationship with someone that is like a marriage.

You can apply for pre-clearance online. If you are approved, and you intend to stay in Ireland for more than 3 months, you have to register for an Irish Residence Permit after you arrive in Ireland.

You must apply for an entry visa or preclearance online .

There is information on how to complete an online application in English (pdf) as well as in Arabic (pdf) , Chinese (pdf) , Russian (pdf) , Hindi (pdf) , French (pdf) , Turkish (pdf) and Urdu (pdf) .

You should apply at least 8 weeks before you plan to come to Ireland. Details of the photographic requirements and current processing times are on the ISD website.

Biometric data : All visa applicants residing in Nigeria must provide biometric data . Applicants residing in Pakistan, India and China must provide fingerprints.

Appeals: If you are refused a visa you can appeal the decision by writing to the Irish Immigration Service Visa office .

The standard non-refundable visa application processing fees are:

Entry and re-entry visas

A single journey visa costs €60 and will be valid for one entry to the State up to a maximum of 90 days from the date of issue.

A multi journey visa costs €100 and will be valid for multiple entries to the State up to a maximum of 5 years from the date of issue.

A transit visa costs €25.

There may also be communications charges in some cases. Information about these charges, and on the fee in your local currency, is available from your local Irish embassy or consulate.

Who does not pay the fee?

Some applicants are not required to pay a fee . This includes visa-required spouses and certain family members of EEA citizens (including Irish nationals) provided that proof of the relationship is provided with the application. In addition, applicants from some countries are not required to pay a fee. As this can change from time to time, you should check with your local Irish embassy or consulate, or with the Visa Office.  

Information about visas is available from your nearest Irish embassy or consulate .

Visa Office

Immigration Service Delivery Department of Justice 13-14 Burgh Quay Dublin 2 D02 XK70 Ireland

Re-entry Visa Processing Office

Immigration Service Delivery 13/14 Burgh Quay Dublin 2 Ireland

Related documents

• Visas for tourists visiting Ireland Information about coming to Ireland for a short stay (less than 90 days). 2017.9193
• Visas for people visiting Ireland on business Certain people who wish to travel to Ireland for business purposes require visas. Find out more. 1879.3136
• Student visas to study in Ireland People from certain countries who wish to study in Ireland require visas. Find out more. 1824.9117

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British-Irish Visa Scheme (BIVS)

The British-Irish Visa Scheme (BIVS) permits Chinese and Indian nationals to enter both the UK and Ireland without needing a separate visa per each jurisdiction and visit. To find out more about this visa route and if you are eligible, do not  hesitate to contact our specialist immigration consultants who are well-versed in both UK and Irish immigration law.  

Call us today on   (+353) 061 518 025 to find out how we can help you.

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Page contents.

• What does the British-Irish Visa allow?  
• Can children apply?

Who is eligible for British Irish visa scheme?

• The rules and requirements of the British-Irish Visa Scheme
• Which documents are needed?
• Is a Transit Visa necessary?
• How to apply
• How to re-enter the country

BIVS visa processing time

How long is the bivs visa valid for.

• Which Irish Short-Stay Visas are covered by the scheme?
• Which UK Visitor Visas are covered by the scheme?
• Frequently asked questions

What is the British-Irish Visa Scheme (BIVS)?

The British-Irish Visa Scheme (BIVS) is a “memorandum of understanding” and reciprocal agreement between the UK and Ireland to promote tourism in both countries. The scheme allows applicants of a certain nationality to freely travel through the Common Travel Area (CTA) excluding the Isle of Man and Channel Islands under one, singular visa.   

The Common Travel Area is the commonly used term that indicates an understanding between the two countries, the UK and Ireland, which grants specific rights for citizens of each jurisdiction. In addition, the Republic of Ireland and the United Kingdom collaborated on the BIVS route for Indian and Chinese nationals in 2014, granting applicants of these nationalities to enjoy certain visa advantages and travel freely though the UK and Ireland without needing separate visas for each. Even after the UK leaves the European Union (Brexit), the CTA and thus British-Irish Visa Scheme remains intact.   

The route builds upon Ireland’s Short Stay Visa Waiver Programme that was implemented in 2011, although while the waiver programme allows applicants to travel in one direction only, the British-Irish route allows travel throughout the UK and Ireland.  

What Does the British-Irish Visa Allow?

Generally speaking, the BIVS allows Chinese and Indian nationals to travel for a short time across the UK and Ireland under a single visa.  

The scheme is mutually recognised by both the UK and Ireland, meaning Ireland will accept a UK Visa and vice versa. For example, an Indian or Chinese national who is visiting Dublin or Cork in the Republic of Ireland for tourism or other short visiting purposes will also be able to make a short trip to London in the UK or Belfast in Northern Ireland without needing to apply for a separate visa.   

However, it is only applicable to those travelling on certain short stay and visitor visas – and applicants must ensure they meet the requirements and eligibility criteria in order to be successful. It is also important to note that there are strict conditions attached to the British-Irish Visa Scheme, for instance applicants must ensure they arrive in the UK first if they have a UK Visit Visa, or Ireland first if they have an Irish Short Stay Visa .  

Can Children Travel Under the British-Irish Visa Scheme?

Minors under the age of 18 travelling alone are not permitted to enter the BIVS scheme.  

However, persons under the age of 18 may use the scheme if they are travelling in the company of an adult specified on the visa.  

Ring IAS today if you are unsure about what the BIVS allows you to do. We can help you with your application, check over your documents or give you general advice on your next steps.

As of 2023, only Chinese and Indian nationals are eligible for the British-Irish visa scheme.

Other countries may join the British-Irish visa scheme at some point in the future. Until then, however, travellers to the UK or Ireland must obtain dedicated visas to be able to visit each country and to travel between them.

The Rules and Requirements

To be accepted under the BIVS route, you must be at least 18 years of age and meet the Visitor Visa requirements.   

In addition, you must first travel to the country that is responsible for your visa. For example, if you have an Irish Short Stay Visa but wish to visit the UK, you must make sure you first land in Ireland before moving on to travel to Northern Ireland and the UK. Fortunately, the BIVS visa means you will not need a Re-Entry Visa if you wish to return back to Ireland or the UK again.  

You must also be wary that there are things you cannot do while under your specified visa. You can only undertake activities that are allowed under the purpose of which the visa was granted. For example, if you enter Ireland or the UK for tourism purposes, you cannot engage in any business or form of employment.   

It is crucial you identify which country you intend on arriving in first as this will decide whether you need a UK Visa or an Irish Visa. However, each visa gives a certain amount of time in which you can exercise  your  travelling rights across the CTA.  

Get in touch with our expert immigration specialists to learn how to apply for the British-Irish Visa Contact us

Which Documents are Needed?

To successfully apply for the BVIS scheme, you must meet the requirements of your stipulated visitor visa which varies depending on which type of visitor you are.  

However, a note to be wary of is that both the UK and Ireland assess all Visit Visa applications with particular scrutiny. The decision-maker wants to ensure that you intend on leaving the country at the end of your trip and that you won’t become an illegal overstayer. Many people are refused a Visit Visa for failing to outline a genuine intention to visit and then return back to their home country.  

For this reason, you must provide a portfolio of evidence and proof which may entail your travel tickets and any compelling reasons you have to return to your country of origin, such as a full-time job, a mortgage or children to look after. It is crucial that your application is prepared with thorough evidence to give your application the best chance of success.  

Our dedicated team of specialist immigration specialists are able to assist you in gathering your supporting evidence. Contact us today on (+353) 061 518 025   to get started on your application.  

Is a Transit Visa Necessary?

If you have an Irish Visa, then you must first land in Ireland before travelling on to the UK. However, you are allowed to travel through the UK providing that your first destination is Ireland. In other words, you will not need a Transit Visa.  

How to Apply for a British-Irish Visa

Once you have identified which country you are seeking to make your application from, you can begin the application process itself.   

Both Ireland and the UK have joint application centres across China and India from which you can submit your application. However, the appropriate authorities in either the UK or Ireland will process your visa application depending on which country you are seeking your initial visa to.  

How to Re-Enter the Country After Visiting

If you enter Ireland, visit the UK and then wish to re-enter into Ireland again, for example, you shouldn’t need a Re-Entry Visa. However, you should be wary of the following conditions:

• If you are travelling on a Single-Entry Irish Visa , once you have left the Common Travel Area, the visa is no longer valid and cannot be used to re-enter Ireland or the UK
•  If you are travelling on a Multi-Entry Irish Visa , re-entry to the Common Travel Area is allowed during the period of validity of the visa but the first country of arrival must be Ireland again
•  If travelling on a UK Visa, re-entry is only permitted during the period of validity on the UK Visa

That said, if you are only travelling across the Common Travel Area (UK and Ireland), you will not need a re-entry visa if you receive a BIVS visa. This means you can enter the UK, Ireland and back to the UK again, or vice versa.  

As the BIVS is not a separate visa or scheme that travellers need to apply for, there is no specific processing time that you need to contend with.

Instead, the processing time will simply be the normal time it takes for you to apply for a standard visitor visa from either the UK or Ireland.

For the UK, the processing time for a standard visitor visa is around 3 weeks.

For Ireland, the processing time for a visit visa is around 25 working days.

Travellers will only be able to take advantage of the BVIS for as long as their UK or Irish visitor visa is valid.

The validity windows of these visas are as follows:

• The maximum stay in the UK allowed to someone with a UK Visa is 180 days
• The maximum stay in Ireland allowed to someone with an Irish Visa is 90 days
• The maximum stay in Ireland allowed to someone with a UK Visa is 90 days or the remaining period of validity on your entry permission
• The maximum stay in the UK allowed to someone with an Irish Visa is the remaining period of validity on the applicant’s permission to remain in Ireland that is granted upon arrival in the State and as evidenced by the stamp in their passport

Which Irish Short Stay Visas are Covered by the Scheme?

Not all Irish Visas are endorsed by the BIVS, but many under the ‘visitor’ category are coded with BIVS advantages.   

The Irish Visas that can be used to travel through the CTA for Indian and Chinese nationals are as followed:  

• The Visit Visa which encompasses short visits for tourism or visiting family and friends  
• The Conference or Event Visa  
• The Short Stay Busines Visa  

All other visa categories such as a Work Visa or Study Visa is not permitted under the British-Irish Visa Scheme.

If you are applying for an Irish Visa, you must ensure that you meet the Irish Visitor Visa requirements and send your application to the appropriate immigration authorities in Ireland. At IAS, our Irish immigration consultants can help you with every stage of this application process – and can even liaise with the Irish government over your application for you. Get in touch to hear more about our custom-made and tailored packages by ringing our client care team today on (+353) 061 518 025.

Which UK Visas are Covered by the Scheme?

While Irish Visit Visas are processed by a decision-maker in Ireland in accordance with Irish immigration law, UK visas are processed by the UK Government in accordance with UK immigration law. It is important to make this distinction as the immigration rules and visa requirements in the UK and Ireland differ.  

Generally speaking, all standard visitor categories in the UK where the maximum visit period is six months permits applicants to undertake the British-Irish Visa Scheme.   

This includes:  

• Standard Visitor Visa  
• Business Visitor Visa  
• Child Visitor Visa  
• Prospective Entrepreneur Visitor Visa  
• Private Medical Treatment Visitor Visa  
• Student Visitor Visa  
• Permitted Paid Engagement Visa  

However, the BIVS is not covered under a Visitor in Transit or a Visitor seeking to enter for the purpose of marriage/civil partnership.  

It is further important to note that the UK Visitor Visa you apply for cannot be for a period longer than six months.  

If you wish to find out how you can visit Ireland for personal or tourism reasons, our team is happy to assist. Learn more

Last modified on April 29th, 2024 at 4:52 pm

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Frequently Asked Questions

How is the bivs visa different from the short stay visa waiver programme.

The Short Stay Visa Waiver Programme allows nationals of a number of Eastern European, Middle East and Asian countries who have a short-term UK visa to come to Ireland without the need for a separate Irish Visa.  

This scheme is separate as the BIVS is applicable to Chinese and Indian applicants.  

Can my BIVS entry permission be refused and how do I appeal?

There are certain circumstances under which your BIVS visa may be refused. Each jurisdiction reserves the right to refuse your visa application at the appropriate bodies’ discretion.  

Generally speaking, there is no appeal mechanism to challenge a refused BIVS visa. For this reason, it is of utmost importance that you fulfil your visa application to the highest standard.  

What if I arrive in the wrong country first?

If, for example, you have an Irish Visa but you arrive in the UK first, you may face complications with your visa permission.  

Whether you arrive in the wrong jurisdiction through no fault of your own, such as an aircraft diversion, or you have made a genuine error, the immigration authorities at the port you arrive in will decide on a case by case basis whether to grant you entry.  

In the event that your entry is not granted, arrangements will be made. If you made a genuine error, arrangements may be made to transport you to the correct  jurisdiction  that your visa permits.  

Which country do I travel home from?

You can travel back home from either the UK or Ireland.  

However, the date of permission to be in Ireland or the UK must still be valid on transit through either jurisdiction and cover the time to get back home again.  

I do not require a visa to enter Ireland, can I still visit the UK?

The British-Irish Visa scheme is only available for Chinese and Indian nationals.  

If you are a national of a country that means you do not need a visa to visit or enter Ireland, you still may need one to enter the UK, even if you are visiting.   

The same rule applies to people who do not need a visa to the UK, but who may need one to enter Ireland.   

How do I know whether I need a UK Visa or an Irish Visa?

Knowing whether you need to apply for a UK visa or an Irish visa depends largely upon which country you intend on arriving in first. Transit through either of the countries does not count as the first point of entry in this case.   

In other words, if you are arriving anywhere in the UK, you should apply for a UK Visa; if your first arrival is in Ireland, then an Irish visa is required.  

What if I just want to go to the UK or just Ireland?

If you don’t wish to travel to both the UK and Ireland, you should just seek the appropriate visa in the normal way. This scheme does not apply to you.  

However, it is important to note that should you secure a UK Visa that is not endorsed by the BIVS scheme then you will not be allowed to travel to the Republic of Ireland. You may even need to return to your country of origin and make a fresh application if you want to enter Ireland – or seek a separate Irish Visitor Visa.  

How can IAS help me?

Our expert immigration specialists are OISC trained and certified, meaning they are well-versed in all areas of domestic UK immigration law, Irish immigration law and even international immigration law such as the US.  

The IAS team can help you from start to finish with your BIVS application; advising you on which documents you made need as proof to support your claim to fulfilling the application for you on your behalf.   

Our expert team is fully qualified to give you the same advice as an immigration lawyer.

By entrusting the Immigration Advice Service with your case, you can rest assured that your application is in the best hands. Contact us today on (+353) 061 518 025.

Immigration Advice Service in Ireland is operating exclusively as an immigration consultancy and not as a law firm in Ireland.

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What is the EU visa waiver scheme and how will it work?

The EU is planning to introduce a €7 (£6) EU visa waiver for some non-EU citizens, including Britons, by summer 2025.

Under new rules, visitors from a list of non-EU countries, including the UK, will need to apply for a waiver, similar to a US Esta, before travelling to 30 countries in Europe.

The waiver will cover travel to the Schengen area, which includes every EU state except for Ireland and Cyprus, as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.

Here's what you need to know about how the new scheme will operate and when it will start.

How does the EU visa waiver scheme work?

The new scheme will be called the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (Etias).

Currently, visitors from the UK can visit the EU's borderless Schengen area for up to 90 days every 180 days without a visa.

This is also the case for citizens of more than 60 non-EU countries, including the US, Japan and Australia.

Under the Etias scheme, this will change.

Visitors from the non-EU countries on the list will need to apply for a visa waiver to travel to the EU for the same duration of 90 days every 180 days. Longer stays will require a visa.

The document will be checked by border guards when crossing the EU border.

The full list of non-EU countries eligible for Etias is published by the EU .

The visa waiver will last for three years and allow an unlimited number of visits.

It will be linked to your passport, so if your passport expires in less than three years, you will need to apply for a new Etias when you get a new one.

How much will the Etias cost?

The waiver will cost €7 for most people, which the EU Commission says is "way cheaper" than the US Esta, which costs $14 (€12.50; £10.75).

The fee will apply to anyone between the ages of 18 and 70.

The waiver will be free for children and the over-70s.

When will the Etias scheme start?

The EU has not announced a firm start date for the waiver scheme yet.

Its website says it will start in "the first half of 2025".

The EU says the Etias requirement will not be enforced for a period of "at least six months" at first, although it recommends all visitors apply for a visa waiver.

A Home Office spokesperson said the UK expects the EU to provide more information on the rollout of the scheme "in due course".

How will waiver applications work?

Passengers will need to apply online or via a mobile app. The form - which the EU describes as a "necessary and small procedural step" - will take around 10 minutes to complete, authorities say.

The details needed for the application form will include passport information as well as background questions about criminal records and medical conditions.

More than 95% of applications will be approved automatically within minutes, the EU says. However, it warns that in some cases may take up to 72 hours.

Applications may also be denied or take up to four weeks to process in exceptional circumstances.

Why is the scheme being introduced?

The EU has decided to bring in more border controls as a response to the migrant crisis and concerns over terrorism.

It says the Etias system will "strengthen security checks on those persons who travel visa-free to the EU".

According to the EU website, the Etias will help EU states "assess potential risks" posed by people entering their borders.

It is aimed at preventing "cross-border crime and terrorism," the website says.

What is the EES?

Another EU border scheme, called the Entry/Exit System (ESS), is launching on 10 November after a series of delays .

Commissioner Johansson says the EES system will mean strict digital border controls at "every single airport," "harbour" and "road into Europe".

The rules will mean "we will know if people stay too long" and "will make it harder for criminals, terrorists or Russian spies to use fake passports," she says.

Under the EES scheme, people entering the EU will have to register fingerprints, a photo and passport details.

That initial registration will be valid for three years, during which time it will need to be validated every time someone crosses the border. This will replace passport stamping.

However, long queues have been predicted, with experts warning the EES could add at least two minutes processing time per passenger, compared with the current 45 seconds.

New EU border IT system risks long delays - Cameron

Uk travellers to pay €7 to visit eu after brexit, app to cut eu border queues won't be ready in time.

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Visit the UK as a Standard Visitor

You can visit the UK as a Standard Visitor for tourism, business, study (courses up to 6 months) and other permitted activities.

You can usually stay in the UK for up to 6 months. You might be able to apply to stay for longer in certain circumstances, for example to get medical treatment.

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Apply for a Standard Visitor visa online - if you need one.

What you can and cannot do (‘permitted activities’)

You can visit the UK as a Standard Visitor:

• for tourism, for example on a holiday or vacation
• to see your family or friends
• to volunteer for up to 30 days with a registered charity
• to pass through the UK to another country (‘in transit’)
• for certain business activities , for example attending a meeting or interview
• for certain paid engagements or events (a ‘permitted paid engagement’) as an expert in your profession, for example to give lectures or perform
• to take part in a school exchange programme
• to do a recreational course of up to 30 days, for example a dance course
• to study, do a placement or take an exam
• as an academic, senior doctor or dentist
• for medical reasons

You cannot:

• do paid or unpaid work for a UK company or as a self-employed person, unless you’re doing a permitted paid engagement or event
• claim public funds (benefits)
• live in the UK for long periods of time through frequent or successive visits
• marry or register a civil partnership, or give notice of marriage or civil partnership - you’ll need to apply for a Marriage Visitor visa

Check you meet the eligibility requirements

You must have a passport or travel document to enter the UK. It should be valid for the whole of your stay.

You must be able to show that:

• you’ll leave the UK at the end of your visit
• you’re able to support yourself and your dependants during your trip (or have funding from someone else to support you)
• you’re able to pay for your return or onward journey (or have funding from someone else to pay for the journey)
• you’ll not live in the UK for extended periods through frequent or successive visits, or make the UK your main home

You may need to meet extra eligibility requirements if you’re visiting the UK:

• for a permitted paid engagement

The rules on what you’ll need to enter the UK may be different if you’re travelling from Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey or the Isle of Man .

Check if you need a visa to visit the UK

Depending on your nationality, you’ll either:

• have to apply for a Standard Visitor visa before you travel to the UK
• be able to visit the UK for up to 6 months without needing a visa

You can check if you need a visa before you apply.

If you do not need a visa, you must still meet the Standard Visitor eligibility requirements to visit the UK. You may be asked questions at the UK border about your eligibility and the activities you plan to do.

If you’ve previously been refused entry to the UK or have a criminal record, you may want to apply for a Standard Visitor visa (even if you do not need one).

If you have to apply for a Standard Visitor visa

You must apply for a Standard Visitor visa online before you travel to the UK.

A Standard Visitor visa costs £115 for up to 6 months. The earliest you can apply is 3 months before you travel.

If you visit the UK regularly, you can choose to apply for a long-term Standard Visitor visa instead.

You can pass through the UK to another country on a Standard Visitor visa. If transiting is your only reason for coming to the UK, you can apply for a Visitor in Transit visa instead for £64.

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UK Tourist Visa from Ireland

Irish citizens do not need a visa to enter the UK. However, foreign travellers coming to the UK from Ireland may need to apply for a tourist visa. If you are looking for more information about whether you need a tourist visa to enter the UK from Ireland, what eligibility criteria you must meet, what supporting documents you may require, what activities you are allowed as a tourist in the UK, or to receive bespoke advice from a team of expert immigration advisers, reach out to us today on +353 061 518 025 .

Request a call back from our immigration experts

• Visit the UK as a Tourist From Ireland

The Common Travel Area (CTA) agreement between the UK and the Republic of Ireland bestows a variety of rights upon each other’s citizens, including the right to travel freely between both countries. Even after Brexit, the UK’s withdrawal from the EU did not affect the rights of Irish and British citizens in each other’s territory protected under the CTA.

Irish citizens will not need to show their passport to the UK immigration officers while travelling from Ireland to the UK. However, they may be asked to confirm their identity and nationality via documents such as a valid passport or passport card, a legible copy of the same, an expired passport or passport card, or any evidence of having obtained Irish citizenship. EEA and Swiss citizens can also travel to the UK for holidays without a visa.

However, if you are a third-country tourist travelling to the UK from Ireland, you may need to obtain a Standard Visitor visa for tourism purposes, commonly called a UK tourist visa. Even if you are from a visa-exempt country for Ireland, you may still require a valid UK visa to enter the country. Moreover, even visa-exempt foreign nationals for the UK may have to produce certain documentary evidence to the UK border control officers at their port of entry.

Page Contents

The british-irish visa scheme, what i can or cannot do as a tourist in the uk, eligibility requirements for a uk tourist visa, how to apply uk tourist visa from ireland, documents required for visiting the uk from ireland, uk tourist visa fees and processing time, how total law can help, frequently asked questions.

The British Irish visa scheme allows Indian and Chinese tourists to visit the UK from Ireland if they are holding certain Irish short stay visas, such as the visit (family/friend), visit (tourist), conference/event, or business visas . However, Indian or Chinese nationals holding any other type of Irish visa, such as a work or a study visa in Ireland, must apply for a Standard Visitor visa to travel to the UK.

Under the British-Irish visa scheme, Indian or Chinese nationals will have to apply at an Irish visa application centre in India or China, respectively, for entering the UK from Ireland. Visa applications made at centres outside either of these two countries will not get the travel advantages under this scheme.

Foreign tourists coming to the UK on a Standard Visitor visa are allowed to engage in certain activities as permitted by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). Even if you are a visa-exempted foreigner for the UK, if you are entering the UK for tourism purposes you will not be permitted to:

• Do paid or unpaid work for an employer
• Work as a self-employed person
• Access public funds
• Enter matrimony or register a civil partnership, or give notice of the same
• Live in the UK for a considerable length of time through frequent or successive visits

As a tourist, you will be able to stay in the UK for up to six months (or as long as your Standard Visitor visa is valid, whichever is shorter). You will be able to travel through the UK (England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland), Isle of Man, Jersey and Guernsey as per your proposed itinerary submitted with your visa application.

You will be eligible to apply for a Standard Visitor visa in the UK for tourism purposes if you can prove that you:

• Are coming to the UK as a tourist
• Will leave the UK at the end of your visit (or when your visa validity ends, whichever is shorter)
• Have sufficient financial means (or a sponsor) to cover for your and your dependants’ (if any) expenses, including accommodation in the UK and return/onwards journey
• Have funds or travel health insurance to pay for any medical treatment, emergencies or repatriation
• Will not stay in the UK for extended periods through frequent or successive visits
• Do not have any intention to make the UK your main home

Moreover, in case you are under 18 years of age and are travelling alone, you must have written consent from your parent(s) or guardian to be eligible for a UK tourist visa.

Similar to other UK visas , a UK Standard Visa application for tourism purposes has to be made online. You may apply for your UK tourist visa three months before your planned travel date at the earliest.

Please start with creating an account on the Home Office website with a valid email ID. It is recommended to have your supporting documents and other necessary information ready with you so as to fill in the online application form correctly and completely.

After completing the form, you will have to submit the same online along with scanned copies of your supporting documents. You will then be redirected to the payments page where you will have to pay your tourist visa processing fees online.

The next step will involve booking a visa appointment at a UK visa application centre (VAC) for submitting your passport and supporting documents as well as providing your biometric information i.e. your facial image and fingerprints. TLScontact is the official partner for UKVI in Ireland and they have a VAC in Dublin.

Speak to our legal team for assistance with your UK tourist visa from Ireland. Contact Us

To apply for a UK tourist visa, you may need to submit the following supporting documents along with your application:

• A valid passport or any other travel document
• A copy of your travel itinerary in the UK
• Proof of accommodation, e.g. a hotel reservation etc.
• Details of your tour operator, if applicable
• Proof of funds (or sponsor details)
• Your current residence address proof (including how long you have been living in that address)
• Your parents’ names and dates of birth
• Proof of income, e.g. salary slips, pension, income from any other sources etc.
• Record(s) of any criminal, civil or immigration offences
• Your travel history for the last 10 years
• Your employer’s details (if you are employed in your country of residence)
• Tax returns
• Your spouse/civil partner’s name, date of birth and passport number, where applicable
• Details of your family members (if any) in the UK
• Written consent from your parent(s)/guardian along with their full contact details if you are under 18 and travelling without an adult

If you are under 18 and are travelling with an adult who is neither your parent nor your legal guardian, you must have documentary evidence to show that you have your parent(s)’ or guardian’s consent with regard to your travel and accommodation arrangements in the UK, even if you are visa-exempt.

Even if you are exempt from applying for a UK visit visa (except Irish citizens), please carry the supporting documents mentioned above with you while travelling to the country, since UK immigration authorities may ask for them at your port of entry. You may even be refused entry to the UK if you are unable to show these documents.

If your documents are not in English or Welsh, please submit certified translation copies.

A UK Standard Visitor visa for tourism purposes will cost you £115. This is a non-refundable fee, meaning you will not get your money back even if your visa application is not successful.

After submitting your documents and providing your biometric details, it may typically take UKVI up to three weeks for processing your visa application. You may also be eligible to get your visa decision faster by paying an additional fee, i.e. £500 for a ‘priority service’ to get the decision within five working days or £1,000 for a ‘super priority service’ to get your UKVI decision letter by the end of the next working day.

Irish citizens do not need a visa to enter the UK, but if you are a visa-required foreign national coming to the UK from Ireland for holiday or vacation purposes, you may need to apply for a Standard Visitor visa UK for tourism purposes. You, however, may travel to the UK on an eligible Irish short stay visa if you are an Indian/Chinese citizen and qualify under the British-Irish visa scheme.

Even visa-exempt country nationals have to meet the applicable eligibility requirements as specified by the Home Office as well as carry required documents with them to be able to enter the UK. You should also be aware of what activities you are allowed to do in the UK while on a tourist visa, so as to avoid a cancellation of your current visa or any future UK visa implications.

Speak to Total Law. Our expert immigration lawyers can assist with your application as well as resolve any query or doubts you may have regarding the UK tourist visa requirements and application process. To know more about the bespoke services we provide and how we can help you, call us today on +353 061 518 025.

Advice Package

Comprehensive immigration advice tailored to your circumstances and goals.

Application Package

Designed to make your visa application as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Fast Track Package

Premium application service that ensures your visa application is submitted to meet your deadline.

Appeal Package

Ensure you have the greatest chance of a successful appeal. We will represent you in any case.

The Advice Package

During this untimed Advice Session with our professional immigration lawyers in London, you will receive our comprehensive advice, completely tailored to your needs and your situation.

The Application Package

With our Application Package, your dedicated immigration lawyer will advise you on your application process and eligibility. Your caseworker will then complete and submit your forms to the Home Office on your behalf.

The Fast Track Package

Our Fast-Track Application Package is a premium service for those who need to submit their application in time with their deadlines. Your case will become a top priority for our lawyers and you will benefit from our highest-quality services.

The Appeal Package

By choosing our Appeal Package, you can rely on our lawyers’ legal knowledge and experience to ensure you have the highest chance of a successful appeal. We will also fully represent you in any hearings/tribunals.

We offer immigration advice sessions as face to face appointments at all of our UK offices, or via the phone. Learn more

Related pages for your continued reading.

Uk visit visa, business visitor visa uk, british irish visa scheme (bivs), uk visa from ireland, marriage visitor visa uk, immigrating to the uk from ireland, can i extend my tourist visa in the uk.

You may be able to extend your UK tourist visa if your current visa validity is less than six months. You cannot, however, extend your stay in the UK on a tourist visa for more than six months.

For example, if you have been granted permission to stay in the UK as a tourist for two months, you may be able to extend the same for a maximum of an additional four months.

Can I Travel to the UK With My Irish Work Permit?

UKVI does not recognise an Irish work permit as a valid travel document for the UK. However, it may prove to be beneficial in your UK tourist visa application if you have one.

Disclaimer: Total Law operates under different capacities in the various countries we cover, including as immigration consultants or lawyers; We connect clients with our network of immigration lawyers if we are not registered as a law firm in a particular country

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The Complete Guide on Moving to Ireland From the UK

Moving to Ireland from the UK is a significant life change, which has its own unique set of challenges but also some great opportunities for a new life, where the grass might even be greener. 

This comprehensive guide will assist you through every step of this major transition. Whether navigating visa requirements, figuring out healthcare access, or adjusting to the Irish way of life, we’ve got the info you need to know.

Moving to Ireland From the UK After Brexit: What You Need To Know

Understanding the following considerations for UK citizens and non-UK citizens will help facilitate a successful relocation for you and your family.

Visa and Permit Requirements

Since January 2021, British citizens can still enjoy visa-free short-term visits to most EU countries, with stays up to 90 days in any 180-day period. However, living, working, or studying long-term in EU countries now depends on each country’s specific immigration laws.

Ireland is a notable exception. Thanks to the Common Travel Area (CTA) agreement, visa and immigration requirements for British citizens travelling to Ireland (and vice versa) remain unchanged. This allows for unrestricted movement between the UK and Ireland, making emigration relatively straightforward for British citizens.

It’s important to note that these CTA freedoms only apply to Irish and British citizens. Non-Irish or non-British family members will need to follow standard immigration processes.

Work and Study Requirements 

UK nationals can work and study in Ireland without special visas under the CTA. Non-UK citizens need specific work permits, such as Critical Skills, General Employment, Intra-Company Transfer, or Working Holiday Authorisation.

For studying, non-UK citizens require either a short-term (C) or long-term (D) study visa, depending on course duration. Student visa requirements include an offer from a recognised Irish institution, proof of financial support, private medical insurance, and intent to return home after studies.

Non-EEA students staying over 90 days must register with the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS). 

Always check the latest visa requirements on the official Irish government website before planning your move.

Healthcare Access

When moving to Ireland, understanding how to access healthcare is crucial. The Irish healthcare system operates on a two-tier basis — public and private — and your access depends on your citizenship status and residency.

For UK Citizens

As a UK national living in Ireland, you’re entitled to state healthcare on the same basis as Irish citizens, provided you’re ‘ordinarily resident’ — meaning you’ve lived or intend to live in Ireland for at least a year. You can access state health services but be prepared to pay fees for some services. The cost depends on your circumstances.

If you’re ordinarily resident, you can access the Irish healthcare system by either paying standard patient charges or with a medical card. Some individuals paying charges may also qualify for a GP visit card, allowing free GP services. 

For those temporarily in Ireland (e.g. students or posted workers) who normally reside in the UK, you may be eligible for necessary healthcare funded by the UK.

For Non-UK Citizens 

If you’re from outside the UK, your access to healthcare depends on your residency status and country of origin. To use public healthcare services, you need to establish that you are ordinarily resident.

Once considered ordinarily resident, you may qualify for full (medical card) or limited eligibility for public health services, based on your income and personal circumstances. If you’re employed in Ireland and paying social insurance contributions (PRSI), you’re entitled to public healthcare services, though some fees may apply.

EU/EEA and Swiss citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for necessary healthcare during temporary stays, but this isn’t a long-term solution. Non-EU citizens typically need private health insurance as a visa condition.

Regardless of your origin, it’s advisable to register with a local General Practitioner (GP) once settled. 

Financial Planning

Financial planning is a crucial step when moving from the UK to Ireland. As you prepare for this transition, there are several key areas to consider. 

• Consider the Currency Change From Pounds to Euros: Research the best methods for currency exchange and consider options like international bank accounts or specialised transfer services to get favourable rates. 
• Set Up an Irish Bank Account: This should also be a priority. Some UK banks have partnerships with Irish institutions, which can streamline this process.
• Understanding the Irish Tax System is Essential: Ireland’s tax year runs from January to December, unlike the UK’s April to April cycle. Initially, you may face tax liabilities in both countries, but a double taxation agreement is in place to prevent paying twice. 
• Review Your Pension Situation: If you have a UK pension, investigate how it will be affected by your move and explore options such as transferring it to an Irish scheme or leaving it in the UK.
• Consider the Implications of Property Transactions: If you’re selling property in the UK, be aware of potential capital gains tax. For those looking to buy in Ireland, research the local property market and mortgage processes. 
• Review your investments: Some UK-based options may need restructuring. 
• Have an Emergency Fund: This is to cover unexpected costs during your transition. 

Given the complexity of international moves, it’s advisable to seek guidance from a financial advisor who is familiar with both UK and Irish systems. They can provide tailored advice for your specific situation. Remember, financial regulations and agreements can change, so always verify the most current information from official sources when planning your move.

The Costs of Relocating to Ireland

Budgeting for your move, from shipping to housing.

When considering the cost of moving from the UK to Ireland, several key factors come into play:

• Shipping Costs: Estimate expenses for transporting your belongings. Costs vary based on volume, shipping method (sea or air freight), and distance. For a typical household move for a three-bedroom, expect to pay between €1,500 to €3,000.
• Housing Deposits: For rentals, deposits usually equal one month’s rent. For property purchases, expect to pay a deposit of 10% of the property’s value. In Dublin, the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment starts at around €1,300.
• Utility Connections: Budget for electricity, gas, water, and internet setup. Initial connection fees can range from €50 to €200 per utility. Monthly costs vary but budget around €150–€200 for a small apartment.
• Insurance: Home insurance in Ireland averages €430 annually. Contents insurance during transit is advisable and can cost €100–€300 depending on value.
• Miscellaneous Expenses: Set aside about €1,000–€2,000 for initial setup costs like temporary accommodation, first grocery shop, and local transportation.
• Import Duties: Thanks to the UK-EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement, most personal belongings are exempt from customs duties when moving to Ireland. However, certain items like new furniture or vehicles may be subject to VAT.

It’s crucial to research current prices and regulations, as costs can vary significantly depending on your specific circumstances and location within Ireland. Planning thoroughly will help create a realistic budget for your relocation from the UK to Ireland.

Benefits of Moving to Ireland From the UK

Moving to Ireland can enhance your quality of life with its affordable living costs, excellent healthcare and education systems, career opportunities, and a balanced lifestyle that values both work and leisure. These factors make Ireland an attractive destination for those seeking a fulfilling and enriching experience abroad.

• Cultural Familiarity: Ireland shares many cultural similarities with the UK, making the transition easier for many Brits. That said, there are many delightful aspects of Irish culture that you can look forward to learning about as a Brit! 
• English-Speaking Environment: As English is widely spoken, language barriers are minimal for most UK citizens.
• Scenic Landscapes: Ireland is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, from rugged coastlines to rolling green hills.
• Quality of Life: Many areas in Ireland, especially outside Dublin, offer a slower pace of life and a strong sense of community.
• Education System: Ireland boasts a high-quality education system, with several world-ranked universities, like the renowned Trinity College Dublin.
• Rich Cultural Heritage: Ireland offers a wealth of history, literature, music, and arts to explore.
• Work Opportunities: Dublin, Cork, and other Irish cities have thriving industries in technology, pharmaceuticals, finance, and more. The country’s economic growth and business-friendly environment attract international companies, offering diverse employment prospects.

Step-by-Step Guide: How To Move From the UK to Ireland

• Check residency requirements for Ireland
• Apply for an Irish visa or residency permit if necessary
• Research housing, healthcare, and schools in Ireland
• Create a budget for relocation expenses
• Notify UK authorities (e.g. HMRC) of your move
• Gather required documents (passport, birth/marriage certificates)
• Start searching for accommodation in Ireland
• Secure housing by signing a lease or completing a property purchase
• Register with an Irish GP or doctor
• Review health insurance options for coverage in Ireland
• Arrange shipping or transport of belongings to Ireland
• Pack and label boxes for efficient unpacking
• Open an Irish bank account
• Transfer funds from your UK account to your Irish account
• Arrange connections for electricity, water, heating, and internet
• Set up payment methods for utility bills
• Research local schools in Ireland
• Enrol children in school or daycare if applicable
• Explore local community resources and services
• Attend local events and join clubs or groups

This checklist will help you stay organised and make sure you complete all necessary steps for a smooth move from the UK to Ireland. Adjust the checklist based on your specific circumstances and needs.

Click here for our list of 77 moving house tips if you need some help with your move!

Let Nesta Help You With Your Move

At Nesta, we understand the challenges of moving and offer reliable self storage to simplify your relocation process. From short-term storage solutions to secure long-term options, our facilities cater to your needs. 

Explore our services today and let Nesta be your partner in making your move to Ireland as smooth and stress-free as possible. Get a quote now! 

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