Europe – Ireland Visa – Long Stay – Work – Critical Skills

1. What is the process for obtaining a long stay visa for Ireland?


The process for obtaining a long stay visa for Ireland varies depending on the purpose of your stay and your nationality. Generally, the process will involve several steps:

1. Figure out what type of visa you need: Ireland offers different types of long stay visas, including study visas, work visas, and family reunification visas. Determine which visa category you fall under and make sure you meet the eligibility requirements.

2. Gather required documents: The specific documents you will need to submit will vary depending on your individual circumstances and the type of visa you are applying for. However, common documents that may be required include a valid passport, proof of sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay, proof of travel/health insurance, and a letter explaining the purpose of your visit.

3. Complete an online application: Most long-stay visa applications for Ireland must be submitted online through the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) website. You will need to create an account and fill out the relevant application form.

4. Pay the application fee: You will be required to pay a non-refundable fee when submitting your application. The amount may vary depending on your nationality and the type of visa you are applying for.

5. Schedule an appointment: After submitting your application online, you will be prompted to schedule an appointment at an Irish embassy or consulate in your country of residence.

6. Attend biometrics appointment: As part of the application process, you may be required to attend a biometrics appointment at the Irish embassy or consulate where you submitted your application.

7. Wait for a decision: Once all necessary documents have been submitted and all fees have been paid, your application will be reviewed by immigration officials. Processing times may vary depending on the volume of applications received.

8. Collect decision letter/passport: If your application is successful, you will receive a decision letter from INIS stating that your visa has been approved along with your passport. You may be required to provide additional documents or attend an interview before a decision is made.

9. Travel to Ireland: Once you have received your visa, you can travel to Ireland within the period of validity specified in your visa.

It’s important to note that the application process may differ for certain categories such as work visas or family reunification visas. It is recommended to check the specific requirements and procedures for your particular situation on the INIS website or consult with an immigration lawyer for further assistance.

2. Is it possible to work during my stay in Ireland on a long stay visa?

As a non-EU citizen, you may be required to obtain a work permit or visa in order to legally work in Ireland. You should check with the Irish Embassy or consulate in your country of residence for specific requirements and procedures.

3. Can I switch to a different visa while in Ireland?
It is possible to switch to a different visa while in Ireland, but it depends on your current visa status and the type of visa you want to switch to. You may need to leave the country and apply for the new visa from your home country, or you may be able to apply for the new visa from within Ireland. It is recommended that you consult with an immigration lawyer or the Irish immigration authorities for guidance on this matter.

4. How long does it take to process an Irish long stay visa?
The processing time for an Irish long stay visa varies depending on several factors such as your country of residence, the purpose of your visit, and current processing times at the Irish Embassy or consulate. On average, it can take anywhere from 4-8 weeks for a long stay visa application to be processed.

5. Can I enter Ireland before my long stay visa start date?
No, you cannot enter Ireland before your long stay visa start date. Your entry into Ireland must be within 90 days of the intended start date on your visa.

6. What happens if my long stay visa expires while I am still in Ireland?
If your long stay visa expires while you are still in Ireland, you will be considered an overstayer and could face deportation or other penalties. It is important to make sure that you extend your visa or leave Ireland before it expires.

7. Can my family members join me on a long stay visa?
Your family members (spouse/partner and children) may be able to join you on a long stay visa if they meet certain requirements and have obtained their own individual visas. They may also need to provide proof of their relationship to you and that they have enough funds to support themselves during their stay in Ireland. You should check with the Irish immigration authorities for specific requirements and procedures for family members joining you on a long stay visa.

8. Are there any restrictions on the type of work I can do while on a long stay visa?
A long stay visa does not automatically permit you to work in Ireland. If you wish to work, you may need to obtain a separate work permit or employment visa. Depending on your visa category, there may also be restrictions on the type of work you can do while in Ireland. It is important to consult with the appropriate authorities before starting any employment.

9. Can I travel outside of Ireland while on a long stay visa?
Yes, you can travel outside of Ireland while on a long stay visa. However, depending on your purpose of visit and visa category, there may be restrictions or requirements for re-entering Ireland. It is important to check with the Irish immigration authorities before traveling outside of Ireland.

10. Do I need health insurance for my stay in Ireland?
While it is not a requirement for obtaining an Irish long stay visa, it is highly recommended that visitors have comprehensive health insurance coverage during their stay in Ireland. This will ensure that you are covered in case of any unexpected medical expenses or emergencies during your time in the country.

3. Do I need a job offer before applying for a long stay visa for Ireland?


Yes, you will need a job offer before applying for a long stay visa for Ireland. This is because the long stay visa is intended for individuals who plan to live and work in Ireland for an extended period of time, and having a job offer is one of the requirements for this type of visa. Your employer will also need to provide documentation and support for your visa application.

4. Are there any specific requirements or qualifications needed for a long stay visa for work in Ireland?


Yes, there are certain requirements and qualifications that need to be met in order to obtain a long stay visa for work in Ireland. These include:

1. Job offer: You will need to have a job offer from an Irish employer that is approved by the Department of Jobs, Enterprise, and Innovation.

2. Employment permit: Depending on your job and its duration, you may need to obtain an employment permit before applying for the long stay visa.

3. Qualifications: Your qualifications must be recognized in Ireland if your occupation requires specific skills or education.

4. Skill shortage: If your occupation is listed on the Critical Skills Occupation List or the Ineligible Occupations Lists, you may have a higher chance of obtaining a long stay visa.

5. Basic language proficiency: You must have a basic understanding of English to work in Ireland.

6. Sufficient funds: You will need to show proof that you have enough funds to support yourself during your stay in Ireland.

7. Health insurance: You must provide evidence of private medical insurance that covers you while living and working in Ireland.

8. Good character: You must provide police clearance certificates from all countries where you have lived for more than six months in the past 10 years.

9. Biometric information: You will have to provide biometric information (fingerprints and photograph) as part of the application process.

10. Completed application form: You must complete and sign the application form for a Long Stay Visa – Employment/Work Permit (type D).

Note: The specific requirements may vary depending on your country of citizenship and individual circumstances. It is always best to consult with the nearest Irish Embassy or Consulate for complete and up-to-date information on obtaining a long stay visa for work in Ireland.

5. What is the maximum length of stay allowed on an Irish long stay visa?


The maximum length of stay allowed on an Irish long stay visa is 3 years.

6. Can I extend my Irish long stay visa if I decide to stay longer than initially planned?


Yes, you can apply for an extension of your Irish long stay visa if you decide to stay longer than initially planned. However, the decision to grant an extension is at the discretion of the Irish Immigration Authorities and will depend on various factors such as your reason for wanting to extend, your financial stability, and any ties you may have in Ireland. You must also apply for an extension before your current visa expires.

7. What is the cost of an Irish long stay visa application?


The cost of an Irish long stay visa application will vary depending on the type of visa and the duration of stay. The current fees for some common types of long stay visas are:

– Employment/Work permit: €1,000
– Student visa: €60 (nonrefundable)
– Join Family Member (long term): €60 (nonrefundable)
– Join Family Member (dependent): €100 (nonrefundable)
– Retired person of independent means: €100 (nonrefundable)

Please note that these fees are subject to change and may also include additional charges for processing and biometric appointments. It is best to check with the nearest Irish embassy or consulate for updated and specific information.

8. Do I need travel medical insurance for my Irish long stay visa application?


Yes, it is highly recommended that you have travel medical insurance for your Irish long stay visa application. The Irish government requires that all non-European Economic Area (EEA) citizens have proof of comprehensive health insurance in order to obtain a long stay visa.

This insurance should cover the duration of your stay in Ireland and should provide coverage for medical emergencies, hospitalization, and repatriation. It is important to choose an insurance plan that meets the requirements set by the Irish government.

Having travel medical insurance not only fulfills the visa requirement, but it also ensures that you are covered in case of unexpected medical expenses during your stay in Ireland. It is always better to be prepared and have adequate coverage rather than facing expensive medical bills without any insurance.

9. How can I prove that I have sufficient funds to support myself during my stay in Ireland with a long stay visa?


There are a few ways to prove that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in Ireland with a long stay visa:

1. Bank statements: You can provide recent bank statements showing your financial transactions and the amount of money you have in your account.

2. Employment documents: If you are employed, you can provide documents such as pay stubs, employment contract or letter from your employer stating your salary, position, and duration of employment.

3. Savings or investment accounts: If you have savings or investments, you can provide documentation of those accounts.

4. Letter of sponsorship: If someone else is funding your trip, they can provide a formal letter stating their name, relationship to you, the purpose and duration of their sponsorship, and how much they will be providing for your expenses.

5. Proof of accommodation: Providing proof of prepaid accommodation or a rental agreement can show that you have planned for housing expenses during your stay in Ireland.

6. Travel insurance: Having travel insurance that includes medical coverage can also help demonstrate that you have enough funds to cover any unforeseen expenses during your stay.

7. Credit card statements: You can provide credit card statements as proof of available credit if needed.

It is important to note that the Irish immigration authorities may also take into consideration other factors such as the duration of your stay, reason for visiting Ireland, and any ties you have to your home country when determining whether you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay. It is always best to provide as much documentation as possible to clearly demonstrate your financial stability and ability to support yourself while in Ireland on a long stay visa.

10. Are there any language requirements for obtaining an Irish long stay work visa?


Yes, applicants must demonstrate proficiency in the English language, as it is the main language spoken in Ireland. This can be done by providing proof of a recognized English test (such as IELTS or TOEFL) or by showing evidence of having completed education or employment in an English-speaking country.

11 The Critical Skills Employment Permit, what jobs does this permit cover and how do I apply?


The Critical Skills Employment Permit is a work permit issued by the Irish government to highly skilled non-European Economic Area (EEA) or Swiss nationals who have a job offer for a specific occupation on the Highly Skilled Occupations List. This permit allows the holder to work in Ireland in that specific occupation for up to two years.

Below are some examples of jobs that may be eligible for this permit:

1. ICT professionals
2. Healthcare professionals
3. Engineers
4. Scientists and researchers
5. Language specialists (non-EEA languages)
6. Construction project managers and quantity surveyors
7. Financial and investment analysts
8. Lawyers with language skills in a non-EEA language
9. Data analysts and data scientists
10.Linguists with specific skills, such as those working on AI or machine learning

To apply for a Critical Skills Employment Permit, you must first have a job offer from an Irish employer in one of the above occupations or demonstrate relevant qualifications and experience in one of these fields.

Once you have secured a job offer, your employer must apply for the permit on your behalf through the Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation’s online portal. They will need to provide information about your qualifications, experience, and salary details.

In addition to this, you may also need to meet certain criteria such as language requirements and evidence of funds to support yourself during your stay in Ireland.

If your application is successful, you will receive an email notification from the Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation with instructions on how to collect your permit from an Irish embassy or consulate abroad.

It is important to note that you must have this permit before starting work in Ireland, as it is not possible to obtain it once you have already arrived in the country.

For more information on the Critical Skills Employment Permit application process and requirements, you can visit the Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation’s website or consult with an immigration lawyer.

12. How do I find job opportunities in Ireland that qualify me for the Critical Skills Employment Permit?


1. Check government websites: The Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation in Ireland has a list of job vacancies for highly skilled workers on their website. You can also check the Irish National Jobs Database for current job openings.

2. Look for jobs on recruitment websites: Websites such as LinkedIn, Indeed, and Glassdoor have a wide variety of job listings in Ireland. You can filter your search results by the type of work permit required.

3. Connect with recruitment agencies: There are numerous recruitment agencies that specialize in placing international candidates in highly-skilled positions in Ireland. They will be able to provide you with information about open positions that qualify for the Critical Skills Employment Permit.

4. Network with professionals in your field: Join professional associations or attend networking events to connect with other professionals in your field. They may be able to inform you about potential job opportunities or refer you to relevant employers.

5. Research companies directly: Identify companies in Ireland that are known for hiring international talent and look for job postings on their websites.

6. Use social media: Follow hashtags related to your industry and location on social media platforms like Twitter and Instagram to find job postings from employers.

7. Contact the Irish embassy or consulate: The Irish embassy or consulate in your home country may have information about job fairs, seminars, or workshops focused on employment opportunities in Ireland.

8. Explore remote work options: Many companies now offer remote work opportunities, so you may be able to secure a job with an Irish company from your home country before moving to Ireland.

9.Search multinational companies: Large multinational companies often have offices or operations in Ireland and may be open to hiring international workers who have skills that are needed within the organization.

10.Register with online talent marketplaces: There are several online platforms where you can showcase your skills and experience, making it easier for potential employers who are looking for specific talent to find you.

11.Consider internships or graduate programs: Internships or graduate programs with companies in Ireland can provide a pathway to securing a full-time job and may qualify for the Critical Skills Employment Permit.

12.Consider remote work options: Some companies offer remote working opportunities. You may be able to secure a job with an Irish company while living in your home country before moving to Ireland.

13. Is there a limit on the number of visas granted through the Critical Skills Employment Permit scheme each year?

There is no set limit on the number of visas granted through the Critical Skills Employment Permit scheme each year. However, there may be limits on individual occupations or industries if they are deemed to have a saturation of skilled workers in Ireland. Additionally, the Irish government regularly reviews and adjusts the list of eligible occupations for this scheme based on the current needs of the Irish labor market.

14. Can my family members accompany me on my long term work permit in Ireland?


Yes, your family members (spouse and dependent children) can accompany you on your long-term work permit in Ireland. They may apply for a dependant visa and join you in Ireland once you have been granted your work permit. They will need to provide proof of their relationship to you as well as evidence of their financial support during their stay in Ireland.

15. What are the requirements for self-employment on a long term work permit in Ireland?

To be eligible for self-employment on a long term work permit in Ireland, an individual must:

1. Secure a job offer from an Irish employer: The first step to obtaining a long term work permit is to have a job offer from an employer based in Ireland.

2. Possess the necessary skills and qualifications: The job offer must be for a role that requires specialized skills or qualifications that are currently in demand in Ireland.

3. Have relevant experience: Applicants must have relevant experience and expertise in the field of work they are seeking employment in.

4. Meet the salary requirements: The minimum annual salary for a long term work permit is €30,000.

5. Obtain a Stamp 4 permission: Applicants must apply for and obtain a Stamp 4 permission, which allows them to work and reside in Ireland as a self-employed person.

6. Register with Revenue and obtain a Personal Public Service (PPS) number: Before starting self-employment, applicants must register with the Revenue Commissioners for tax purposes and obtain a PPS number.

7. Comply with immigration laws: Applicants must comply with all immigration laws and ensure that their residence permits remain valid at all times.

8. Provide evidence of financial stability: Self-employed individuals must provide evidence that they have sufficient funds to support themselves and any dependents while living in Ireland.

9. Adhere to business regulations and taxes: Self-employed individuals are responsible for complying with all business laws and regulations, including registering for relevant taxes such as income tax, VAT, PRSI, etc.

10. Maintain health insurance coverage: All non-EU citizens working or residing in Ireland are required to maintain health insurance coverage throughout their stay.

11. Show intention to move permanently to Ireland: As this is a long term work permit, applicants should show their intention to move permanently to Ireland by providing evidence of accommodation plans, family ties, etc.

12. Be of good character: Applicants must provide a police clearance certificate from their home country or any other country they have resided in for 6 months or more in the past 5 years.

13. Utilize the work permit for its intended purpose: The long term work permit is granted for a specific job and employer, and applicants must not use it for any other purposes.

14. Follow all requirements set by the Department of Enterprise, Trade, and Employment: Applicants must comply with all conditions and requirements specified by the Department of Enterprise, Trade, and Employment when granting the work permit.

15. Renewal of the Permit: The long term work permit can be renewed after two years if the employment is ongoing and all other criteria are met.

16.What documents do I need to submit with my long term work permit application?


The documents required for a long term work permit application may vary depending on the country and the specific visa program. However, in general, you may need to submit the following supporting documents:
1. A valid passport with at least 6 months validity remaining.
2. Completed visa or work permit application form.
3. Proof of employment, such as a job offer letter or employment contract from a company in the destination country.
4. Income tax returns or payslips to demonstrate financial stability and ability to support yourself during your stay.
5. Educational qualifications, such as degree certificates or transcripts, if required for your intended job.
6. Criminal record check or police clearance certificate from your home country or any country where you have lived for an extended period.
7. Medical examination report certifying good health and absence of any contagious diseases.
8. Proof of travel insurance, if required by the destination country.
9. Two recent passport-sized photographs.
10.Detailed travel itinerary and accommodation arrangements in the destination country.
11.Application fee payment receipt.

It is important to check with the immigration authorities of the specific country for a comprehensive list of required documents for a long term work permit application.

17.Can I switch to another type of visa while on a long term work permit in Ireland?

Yes, it is possible to switch to another type of visa while on a long term work permit in Ireland. However, you must meet the eligibility requirements for the new visa category and follow the appropriate application process. You may also need to provide additional documentation and undergo further assessments or interviews. It is important to consult with an immigration lawyer or the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) for specific guidance on your individual case.

18.Is it possible to include dependent children on my initial application or can they join me later?

It is possible to include dependent children on your initial application, as long as they meet the requirements for family sponsorship. However, if you do not include them in your initial application, they can still apply to join you at a later date through a separate process.

19.How much notice should be given if changing employers while under the Critical Skills Employment Permit scheme?


A minimum of 4 weeks’ written notice should be given to the current employer if changing jobs while under the Critical Skills Employment Permit scheme. This is stated in the terms and conditions of the permit. The notice period may be longer if specified in an employment contract or collective agreement. Failure to provide adequate notice may result in a breach of contract and potential legal consequences.

20.Are there any restrictions on working or starting your own business after receiving permanent residency in Ireland under the Critical Skills Employment Permit scheme?


There are no specific restrictions on working or starting a business after receiving permanent residency in Ireland under the Critical Skills Employment Permit scheme. Once you have obtained your permanent residency, you have the right to work and start a business in Ireland without any further permissions or restrictions. However, it is important to note that you may still need to obtain additional permits or licenses depending on the type of business you wish to start. It is recommended to consult with an immigration lawyer or relevant authorities for more information on the specific requirements for your situation.