What Documents Are Required for an Ireland Tourist Visa?

Documents for Ireland Tourist Visa

Planning a trip to Ireland—the land of lush green landscapes, historic castles, dramatic coastlines, and warm hospitality? If you’re an Indian passport holder, one of the most important steps before packing your bags is understanding what documents are required for an Ireland tourist visa.

Ireland follows a strict but transparent visa process, and documentation plays a huge role in whether your visa gets approved or delayed. Many applications are refused not because applicants are ineligible, but because documents are incomplete, unclear, or improperly presented.

In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through every document required for an Ireland tourist visa, explain why each document matters, and share practical tips to help you submit a strong application from India.

Do Indians Need a Tourist Visa for Ireland?

Yes. Indian citizens require a Short Stay ‘C’ Tourist Visa to visit Ireland for tourism, family visits, or short leisure travel (up to 90 days).

Ireland is not part of the Schengen Zone, so a Schengen visa does not allow entry into Ireland (except in limited cases under the British-Irish Visa Scheme, which we’ll briefly touch on later).

Complete List of Documents Required for Ireland Tourist Visa

Let’s break the document checklist into simple categories so it’s easier to understand and prepare.

1. Valid Passport (Mandatory)

Your passport is the most important document for your Ireland tourist visa application.

Passport Requirements:

• Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended return date
• Must have at least 2 blank pages
• Issued within the last 10 years

Additional Passport Documents:

• Clear photocopies of:
• Bio-data page
• All previous visas
• Entry/exit stamps (especially UK, Schengen, US, Canada)

Tip: If you’ve traveled internationally before, it strengthens your visa profile—make sure all stamps are clearly visible.

2. Completed Online Visa Application Form (AVATS)

All Ireland visa applications are submitted online through the AVATS system.

What You’ll Need:

• Completed AVATS form
• Printed and signed application summary sheet
• Reference number generated after submission

Ensure that:

• All information matches your documents exactly
• No spelling mistakes in names, dates, or passport numbers

Tip: Even small mismatches can cause delays or rejection.

3. Passport-Size Photographs

You must submit two recent passport-size photographs.

Photo Specifications:

• Size: 35mm x 45mm
• White or light background
• Neutral facial expression
• No headgear (unless for religious reasons)
• Taken within the last 6 months

Tip: Write your name and AVATS reference number lightly on the back of each photo.

4. Cover Letter (Strongly Recommended)

A well-written cover letter can significantly improve your application.

What to Include in Your Cover Letter:

• Purpose of travel
• Planned travel dates
• Cities you plan to visit
• Details of accommodation
• Who will bear travel expenses
• Assurance of return to India

Tip: Keep it honest, concise, and personalized. Avoid copying templates word-for-word.

5. Travel Itinerary & Flight Details

You are not required to book confirmed flight tickets before visa approval.

Acceptable Documents:

• Tentative flight booking
• Travel itinerary showing entry and exit dates
• Planned places to visit in Ireland

Tip: Avoid non-refundable tickets before visa approval.

6. Proof of Accommodation

You must show where you will stay during your trip.

Accepted Accommodation Proof:

• Hotel booking confirmations
• Airbnb reservations
• Invitation letter (if staying with family/friends)

If Staying with a Host:

• Invitation letter from host
• Copy of host’s passport or Irish residence permit
• Proof of address in Ireland

7. Proof of Financial Means (Very Important)

Ireland does not specify a fixed minimum bank balance for Ireland tourist visa, but you must prove you can support yourself.

Financial Documents Required:

• Last 6 months bank statements
• Bank statements must be:
• Original
• Stamped and signed by the bank
• Evidence of income:
• Salary slips (last 3–6 months)
• Income Tax Returns (ITR)
• Form 16 (if applicable)

Recommended Balance:

• Enough to cover:
• Accommodation
• Food
• Transport
• Sightseeing
• Plus emergency funds

Tip: Avoid sudden large deposits just before applying—it raises red flags.

8. Employment Proof / Occupation Documents

Your employment status helps visa officers assess your ties to India.

If Employed:

• Employment letter on company letterhead
• Leave approval letter
• Salary slips
• Company ID card (optional)

If Self-Employed:

• Business registration documents
• GST certificate
• Company bank statements
• ITR

If Student:

• Bonafide certificate
• College ID
• Leave approval

If Retired:

• Pension statements
• Retirement proof

9. Proof of Ties to India (Very Important)

You must convince the visa officer that you will return to India.

Supporting Documents:

• Property documents
• Family ties proof
• Employment confirmation
• Ongoing education proof
• Previous travel history

Tip: Strong ties = higher approval chances.

10. Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is mandatory for Ireland tourist visas.

Insurance Requirements:

• Covers entire stay in Ireland
• Medical coverage of at least €30,000
• Covers emergencies and repatriation

11. Visa Fee Payment Receipt

• Ireland tourist visa fee: €60
• Payable in INR at VFS Global
• VFS service charges apply separately

12. Additional Documents (If Applicable)

Depending on your case:

• Marriage certificate
• Children’s birth certificates
• Sponsorship letter (if sponsored)
• UK visa (for BIVS scheme travelers)

Where to Submit Documents?

After completing AVATS:

• Book an appointment at VFS Global Ireland Visa Application Centre in India
• Submit biometrics and documents
• Track application online

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Incomplete documents
• Fake or altered bank statements
• Inconsistent travel plans
• Weak cover letter
• Missing proof of ties to India

Final Thoughts

Understanding what documents are required for an Ireland tourist visa is the key to a smooth and successful application. While the process may seem document-heavy, proper planning and honest paperwork can greatly improve your approval chances.

If you prepare each document carefully and clearly explain your travel purpose, Ireland could be your next unforgettable destination.