How to Get Ireland Tourist Visa for Indians?

Get Ireland Tourist Visa for Indians

Planning a trip to Ireland from India? Whether you want to explore Dublin’s historic streets, see the Cliffs of Moher, or visit family and friends, Indian passport holders must apply for an Ireland tourist visa in advance. While the process is straightforward, many applications get delayed or rejected due to incomplete documents or unclear financial proof.

This detailed guide explains how Indians can get an Ireland tourist visa, covering eligibility, documents, step-by-step application process, bank balance requirements, fees, processing time, and expert tips to improve approval chances.

Do Indians Need a Visa to Visit Ireland?

Yes. Indian citizens require a visa to travel to Ireland, even for short tourist visits. Ireland does not offer visa-on-arrival or e-visa facilities for Indian passport holders.

Also important to note:

• Ireland is not part of the Schengen Zone
• A Schengen visa does not automatically allow entry into Ireland
• You must apply separately for an Ireland short-stay ‘C’ visa

What Is an Ireland Tourist Visa?

An Ireland tourist visa is officially known as a Short-Stay ‘C’ Visa. It allows foreign nationals, including Indians, to stay in Ireland for up to 90 days for purposes such as:

• Tourism and sightseeing
• Visiting friends or family
• Short recreational travel

This visa does not permit:

• Employment
• Business activities
• Long-term studies

Types of Ireland Tourist Visas for Indians

1. Single-Entry Tourist Visa

• Allows one entry into Ireland
• Most commonly issued for first-time travelers

2. Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa

• Allows multiple entries during the visa validity
• Usually granted to travelers with strong travel history

3. Visit Family / Friend Visa

• For visiting relatives or friends legally residing in Ireland
• Requires an invitation letter and host documents

Eligibility Criteria for Ireland Tourist Visa

You are generally eligible if:

• You hold a valid Indian passport
• Your travel purpose is genuine and temporary
• You can show sufficient financial means
• You have strong ties to India (job, business, family, property)
• You intend to return to India after your trip

Documents Required for Ireland Tourist Visa from India

Proper documentation is the most important part of your application.

1. Passport Requirements

• Passport valid for at least 6 months after return
• At least two blank pages
• Copies of previous visas (if available)

2. Online Application (AVATS)

• Complete the application on the AVATS portal
• Print and sign the application summary
• Each traveler must submit a separate application, including children

3. Passport-Size Photographs

• Two recent photographs
• White background
• As per Irish visa photo guidelines

4. Cover Letter (Very Important)

Your cover letter should clearly explain:

• Why you want to visit Ireland
• Travel dates and duration
• Places you plan to visit
• Where you will stay
• How you will fund the trip
• Your intention to return to India

A clear, honest cover letter often makes or breaks the application.

5. Financial Proof & Bank Statements

Ireland does not specify a fixed minimum bank balance, but you must show:

• 6 months of bank statements
• Consistent balance and income
• No sudden or unexplained large deposits
• Funds sufficient to cover:
• Accommodation
• Food
• Local transport
• Return airfare

For short trips, most applicants show around €1,000–€2,000 or more, depending on travel duration.

6. Income & Employment Proof

• Salary slips (last 3 months)
• Employment letter or business registration
• Income Tax Returns (if available)

7. Accommodation Proof

You can submit:

• Hotel booking confirmation
  OR
• Invitation letter from host in Ireland, including:
• Address
• Passport or residence permit copy
• Proof of relationship

8. Flight Itinerary

• Round-trip flight reservation (confirmed tickets not mandatory)
• Detailed travel itinerary is recommended

9. Travel Insurance

Travel insurance should:

• Cover the entire stay
• Include medical emergencies and hospitalization
• Be issued by a recognized insurer

Step-by-Step Process to Apply for Ireland Tourist Visa

Step 1: Apply Online via AVATS

Fill out the visa application form on the AVATS (Immigration Service Delivery) website.

Step 2: Pay the Visa Fee

Pay the visa fee during the application or at the VFS center.

Step 3: Book VFS Global Appointment

Schedule an appointment at the nearest VFS Global Ireland Visa Application Centre.

Step 4: Visit VFS Global

At your appointment:

• Submit documents
• Provide biometrics (fingerprints & photo)

Step 5: Track Your Application

Use your reference number to track your visa status online.

Ireland Tourist Visa Fees for Indians

• Single-entry visa: ₹5,300
• Multiple-entry visa: ₹9,000
• VFS service charges are additional

Fees are non-refundable, even if the visa is refused.

Ireland Tourist Visa Processing Time

• Average processing time: 15 working days
• May take longer during peak seasons
• Apply at least 4–6 weeks in advance

Biometric Submission at VFS Global

All applicants, including children, must submit biometrics:

• Fingerprints
• Digital photograph

Biometrics are mandatory for each application.

Common Reasons for Ireland Tourist Visa Rejection

• Insufficient financial proof
• Weak cover letter
• Inconsistent bank statements
• Unclear travel plans
• Lack of strong ties to India
• Fake or unverifiable documents

Tips to Increase Your Ireland Tourist Visa Approval Chances

• Maintain stable bank balance
• Submit honest and complete documents
• Write a clear cover letter
• Avoid last-minute fund transfers
• Show proof of job, business, or family ties in India

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long can Indians stay in Ireland on a tourist visa?

Up to 90 days.

Is travel insurance compulsory?

Yes, it is strongly recommended and often required.

Can I work on an Ireland tourist visa?

No, employment is strictly prohibited.

Does each traveler need a separate visa?

Yes, including children and infants.

Final Thoughts

Getting an Ireland tourist visa for Indians is a structured and achievable process if done correctly. Focus on clear documentation, strong financial proof, and honest travel intentions. Apply early, prepare thoroughly, and your chances of approval increase significantly.

Ireland offers stunning landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality—making the effort worthwhile.