Irish Visa for UK BRP Holders: How to Apply from the UK (2026)
Irish Visa Types
| Type | Purpose | Stay | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| C visa (Short Stay) | Tourism, business, family visit, conference | Up to 90 days | EUR 60 (single) / EUR 100 (multi) |
| D visa (Long Stay) | Study, work, join family member | Over 90 days | EUR 60 |
| Transit visa | Passing through Ireland | Transit only | EUR 25 |
Most BRP holders visiting Ireland for holidays need a C (short stay) visa.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Check your requirement
Visit irishimmigration.ie and confirm your nationality requires a visa. If visa-exempt, you do not need to apply.
Step 2: Complete the online form (AVATS)
Go to visas.inis.gov.ie. Create an account and complete the application form. Choose "C Short Stay" for tourism/visits. The system generates a reference number and a summary sheet.
Step 3: Print the summary sheet
After completing the online form, print the AVATS summary sheet. This must be included with your postal application. Sign and date it.
Step 4: Gather supporting documents
See the full list below. All documents must be originals or certified copies.
Step 5: Post your application
Send the summary sheet and all supporting documents to the Irish visa office. Use recorded delivery. The postal address is provided on the AVATS summary sheet. Do not send documents to the Irish Embassy directly unless instructed.
Step 6: Wait for decision
Processing takes 8-12 weeks. You can track your application using the reference number at visas.inis.gov.ie.
Step 7: Receive decision
If approved, the visa is stamped in your passport (returned by post). If refused, you receive a letter with reasons and can appeal within 2 months.
Documents Required
Identity & Status
- Valid passport (6+ months validity recommended, 2+ blank pages)
- UK BRP card (front and back copy) or eVisa Share Code printout
- 2 passport-size photos (ICAO standard)
- AVATS summary sheet (signed and dated)
Purpose of Visit
- Letter of application explaining: why you want to visit, dates, where you will stay, who you will visit (if family/friends), and when you will return to the UK
- Invitation letter from host (if visiting family/friends) with their Irish immigration registration details
- Hotel or accommodation booking
Financial Evidence
- Bank statements for the last 6 months (showing regular income and sufficient balance)
- Employment letter on company letterhead (confirming position, salary, leave approval)
- If self-employed: business registration, tax returns, accountant letter
- If a student: university enrollment letter, sponsor letter and sponsor's bank statements
Travel Arrangements
- Return flight or ferry booking
- Travel insurance covering Ireland
- Detailed itinerary (what you plan to do in Ireland)
Costs
| Visa Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Single entry (C visa) | EUR 60 |
| Multi-entry (C visa) | EUR 100 |
| Transit | EUR 25 |
| Long stay (D visa) | EUR 60 |
| Children under 14 (some countries) | Free |
Fee waiver: Some nationalities who are long-term legal residents of the UK may not need to pay. Indian nationals with UK BRP may qualify. Check with irishimmigration.ie.
Payment: Instructions provided on the AVATS summary sheet. Usually by postal order or bank draft.
Processing Times
- Published target: 8 weeks for straightforward applications
- Reality: 8-12 weeks typical, can be longer in summer
- No fast-track: There is no expedited service for tourism applications
- Recommendation: Apply at least 3-4 months before your planned travel date
Nationality-Specific Notes
Indian nationals
- Visa required: YES
- May qualify for fee waiver as long-term UK resident
- BIVS does NOT apply when applying from the UK (only from India)
- Strong UK ties (employment, property) are key to approval
Nigerian nationals
- Visa required: YES
- Must pay standard fee (EUR 60/100)
- Comprehensive financial evidence essential
- Include employment contract, tenancy, UK family evidence
Pakistani nationals
- Visa required: YES
- Must pay standard fee
- Previous travel compliance history helps significantly
- Include copies of all previous visas and stamps
Chinese nationals
- Visa required: YES
- BIVS does NOT apply from the UK (only from China)
- Apply through normal Irish visa process
If Your Visa Is Refused
- You receive a refusal letter stating specific reasons
- You can appeal within 2 months of the refusal date
- Appeals are free — include additional evidence addressing the refusal reasons
- Common refusal reasons: insufficient finances, unclear purpose, weak ties to UK, incomplete documents
- You can also reapply with a fresh application at any time
Ireland vs Schengen Visa: Quick Comparison
| Feature | Irish Visa | Schengen Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Processing time | 8-12 weeks | 15 days (up to 45) |
| Fee | EUR 60-100 | EUR 90 |
| Application | Online (AVATS) + post | VFS/TLS in person |
| Biometrics | Not always required | Required (fingerprints) |
| Max stay | 90 days | 90 days in 180 |
| Countries covered | Ireland only | 29 Schengen countries |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply for an Irish visa from the UK?
Online at visas.inis.gov.ie (AVATS). Complete form, print summary, post with documents. 8-12 weeks processing.
How much does it cost?
EUR 60 single entry, EUR 100 multi-entry, EUR 25 transit. Some fee waivers for long-term UK residents.
How long does processing take?
8-12 weeks. No fast-track. Apply 3-4 months ahead.
What documents do I need?
Passport, BRP/eVisa, photos, AVATS summary, purpose letter, accommodation, finances, employment, insurance, return booking.
What visa types are there?
C (short stay, up to 90 days), D (long stay), Transit. Most tourists need C visa.
Can I apply online?
Yes. Complete the form online at AVATS, then post supporting documents.
Do Indian nationals pay a fee?
May qualify for a fee waiver as long-term UK residents. Check irishimmigration.ie.
What if my visa is refused?
Appeal within 2 months with additional evidence. Appeals are free. Or reapply.