Obtaining a residency visa in Ireland is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in Ireland gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.
- Gather the necessary documents to apply for residency status in Ireland. This includes a valid passport, proof of address, proof of financial means, and a valid visa if applicable.
- Complete the application form for residency status. This form can be found on the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service website.
- Submit the application form and all necessary documents to the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service. This can be done in person, by post, or online.
- Pay the application fee. This fee can be paid online or in person.
- Attend an interview with the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service. This interview will assess your eligibility for residency status.
- Wait for a decision from the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service. This decision will be sent to you by post.
- If your application is successful, you will receive a Certificate of Registration. This certificate will be valid for a period of time and must be renewed when it expires.
- Apply for a Tax Number.
- Visit the Revenue Commissioners website and complete the online application form.
- Submit the application form and all necessary documents to the Revenue Commissioners. This can be done in person, by post, or online.
- Wait for a decision from the Revenue Commissioners. This decision will be sent to you by post.
- Register with the Department of Social Protection. This can be done in person or online.
- Register with the Health Service Executive. This can be done in person or online.
What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Ireland?
“As a UK citizen our entry was easy. Having ties to Ireland, my grandfather was Irish, provides me with Citizenship rights. We were introduced to the Garda (local police) Immigration Officer who stamped our passports with annual visas. Research what is required to become permanent residents before making a move,” said one expat living in Tobercurry.
“Because standards in any country might change, we suggest researching the website pertaining to the country of choice. Ireland allowed UK Citizens (me) free entrance and residency in Ireland (no visa necessary) and my husband was allowed to be with me. Since our retirement here, due to ancestry, I earned my Irish Citizenship and so now my husband may apply for his Irish Citizenship too,” wrote a member in Tobercurry.
“If you plan to stay in Ireland for an extended period of time, you may need either a residence permit or visa, depending on your nationality. If you are an EU/EEA national, you may be eligible for residence permission in Ireland. For those who are not nationals of an EU/EEA country, you will need to apply for a long-term visa or residence permit to reside and/or work in Ireland. Obtaining either a residence permit or visa will require you to provide necessary documentation, including a valid passport, proof of sufficient funds, proof of accommodation, and proof of health insurance,” commented one expat who made the move to Ireland.
“In order to visit and/or work in Ireland as a foreign national, individuals must apply for a visa. This process requires an individual to complete a written application form, provide evidence of identity, a valid passport, confirmation of health insurance, and evidence that the applicant has the financial means to provide for themselves while in the country. An individual must also typically appear for an interview with an Irish immigration officer. To gain residency in Ireland, one must apply for one of the available residence permits. Application requirements include proof of identity, a current valid passport, health insurance, sufficient funds to support one’s self and any dependents, proof of employment or study, evidence of immigration permission, and a completed application form. The Irish government also requires applicants to participate in a screening process that includes an interview, criminal background check, and/or a review of any existing immigration records,” commented one member living in Ireland.
